TABLE OF CONTENTS This section discusses many of the key terms typically used in produced water treating systems. Most of these terms are defined within Chapters 9 and 10 when initially introduced. This appendix is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all terms.
The well stream from the reservoir typically contains varying quantities of water that is commonly referred to as "produced water." The produced water source can be from (1) an aquifer layer underlying the oil and or natural gas zones, (2) connate water found within the reservoir formation sand matrix, (3) water vapor condensing from the gas phase as the result of Joule-Thompson expansion/cooling effects occurring from pressure reduction up the well bore and across wellhead chokes, (4) water-bearing formations not directly in communication with the hydrocarbon reservoir, or (5) a combination of the same. Produced water is typically salty and contains varying quantities of dissolved inorganic compounds and salts, suspended scales and other particles, dissolved gases, dissolved and dispersed liquid hydrocarbons, various organic compounds, bacteria, toxicants, and trace quantities of naturally occurring radioactive materials. Other miscellaneous sources of water from within the processing facilities (e.g., from drains, glycol regeneration units, etc.) are sometimes mixed with produced water for treatment and disposal.
The terminology for "total oil and grease," "dispersed oil," and "dissolved oil" may vary with location and specific test standard used by the authorities having jurisdiction. These terms should be applied with caution and should conform to the regulations and test standards...
