Oilfield Scales: Mechanisms, Prediction, and Control
| 27 Apr. – 01 May 2026, Abu Dhabi | 27 – 31 July 2026, Abu Dhabi |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Oilfield scale deposition is a primary cause of production decline, equipment failure, and costly well interventions. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the chemical and physical mechanisms that lead to the precipitation of inorganic solids such as calcium carbonate, barium sulfate, and strontium sulfate. Participants will learn how changes in pressure, temperature, and fluid composition—especially during waterflooding trigger the formation of scale in the reservoir, wellbore, and surface facilities.
The curriculum emphasizes the importance of predictive modeling in anticipating scale risks. Attendees will learn how to use water chemistry analysis and specialized software to calculate scaling indices and determine the thermodynamic tipping point for mineral precipitation. The course provides a deep dive into the selection and application of scale inhibitors, covering the differences between "squeeze" treatments and continuous injection, and the criteria for choosing the right chemical for specific mineral types.
Control and remediation strategies form the final segment of the training. Participants will examine mechanical removal methods, such as milling and jetting, alongside chemical dissolvers for existing scale. The course also addresses the challenges of scale management in complex environments, such as high-temperature wells and subsea tie-backs. By the end of the program, engineers and operators will be equipped to design and manage a proactive scale control program that protects production and extends the life of the asset.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Identify the common types of mineral scales found in oilfield operations.
- Explain the thermodynamics of scale precipitation and crystal growth.
- Analyze the impact of pressure and temperature drops on carbonate scale.
- Understand the role of brine incompatibility in sulfate scale formation.
- Interpret water analysis reports for scale prediction purposes.
- Utilize scaling indices (LSI, RSI) to assess the severity of scale risk.
- Select appropriate scale inhibitors based on mineralogy and system conditions.
- Design a scale inhibitor squeeze treatment for a production well.
- Optimize the timing and frequency of inhibitor applications.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of continuous chemical injection systems.
- Describe mechanical and chemical methods for removing existing scale.
- Manage the challenges of scale in gas lift and ESP systems.
- Formulate a comprehensive scale management plan for a waterflood project.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
This course is intended for Production Engineers, Production Chemists, Reservoir Engineers, and Operations Supervisors involved in the management of scaling wells and facilities.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

