Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Introduction to Sampling and Testing in Oil & Gas Operations

• Understand the importance of accurate sampling in upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.
• Identify key parameters tested in crude oil, natural gas, produced water, and oilfield chemicals.
• Learn about sampling standards and best practices (API, ASTM, ISO, EPA).

2. Sampling Techniques for Oilfield Fluids

• Implement correct sampling methods for different fluids:
• Crude oil sampling (pipeline, wellhead, separator, storage tank).
• Gas sampling (high-pressure gas wells, flare gas, and pipeline gas).
• Produced water sampling (injection water, disposal water, formation water).
• Chemical sampling (corrosion inhibitors, demulsifiers, scale inhibitors).
• Learn grab sampling, composite sampling, and continuous sampling methods.
• Follow proper sample preservation techniques (pressure retention, contamination control, chemical stabilization).

3. Testing and Analysis of Crude Oil Samples

• Measure crude oil properties:
• API Gravity and Density (ASTM D5002).
• Viscosity and Pour Point.
• Basic Sediment & Water (BS&W) (ASTM D4006).
• Sulfur Content and Acid Number (ASTM D664).
• Wax and Asphaltene Content.

4. Testing and Analysis of Natural Gas Samples

• Conduct gas chromatography for composition analysis (methane, ethane, propane, CO₂, H₂S, N₂).
• Determine gas calorific value and heating content.
• Evaluate dew point and hydrocarbon condensation risks.

5. Testing of Produced Water and Injection Fluids

• Measure salinity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and total suspended solids (TSS).
• Conduct bacteria testing for sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and acid-producing bacteria (APB).
• Analyze scale-forming potential (barium, calcium, strontium, sulfate, carbonate ions).

6. Testing of Oilfield Chemicals

• Evaluate performance efficiency of corrosion inhibitors, demulsifiers, and scale inhibitors.
• Conduct compatibility tests between chemicals and formation fluids.
• Perform biocide efficacy tests for microbial contamination control.

7. Sampling Handling, Preservation, and Quality Control

• Follow proper sample labeling, chain of custody, and storage requirements.
• Prevent contamination and degradation during transportation.
• Implement quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures in sampling and testing.

8. Regulatory and Environmental Compliance in Sampling and Testing

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, REACH, and offshore environmental regulations.
• Follow HSE best practices for handling hazardous samples.
• Implement waste management strategies for sample disposal.

9. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Review real-world sampling and testing challenges and best practices.
• Participate in hands-on exercises for sample collection and laboratory analysis.
• Develop a customized sampling and testing protocol for a specific field operation.

Target Audience

• Production and petroleum engineers
• Field operators and maintenance personnel
• Laboratory technicians and quality control professionals
• Process engineers and flow assurance specialists
• HSE and regulatory compliance officers