Combating Salt Contamination in Crude Oil: Analysis & Desalting Techniques

<p dir="ltr">This research poster examines the critical role of salt determination in crude oil as outlined in ASTM D3230, the Standard Test Method for Salts in Crude Oil (Electrometric Method). Inorganic salts present in crude oil contribute to severe operational challenges in petroleum refining, including corrosion of pipelines, fouling of heat exchangers, and catalyst poisoning. By accurately measuring salt content through conductivity-based electrometric analysis, refineries can make informed decisions on when desalting is required to protect process equipment and maintain efficiency. The poster highlights the mechanisms of salt-induced corrosion, the formation of hydrochloric acid in overhead systems, and the potential for under-deposit corrosion when neutralizing agents are misapplied. In addition, the work discusses desalting techniques, particularly water washing and electrostatic separation, as effective means of reducing salt concentration prior to distillation. The findings underscore the necessity of precise salt monitoring and effective desalting protocols to enhance refinery reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and extend asset longevity.</p>