Upgrading API and Specific Gravity Specifications of Iraqi Crude Oil Using a Laboratory-Built Multipumping Fuel Analysis (MPFA) System

Abstract

Iraqi heavy crude oil (26.85 API) is processed by a laboratory-made fuel injection system and through the deasphalting oil (DAO) extraction process by different solvents and the application of different variables. The system was built with low-cost parts found in local markets. The purpose of a manufactured fuel system is to enhance the API and specific gravity (Sp.gr.) specifications of the collected samples and obtain the reduced crude oil through the DAO process. The extraction was carried out with a temperature range, a solvent flow rate, a mixing coil length, a solvent entry time, and different types of solvents. In general, results show that the API and Sp.gr of DAO increased from 26.85 and 0.8936 to 39.28 and 0.8132, respectively. Also, sulfur content decreased from 4.1967 wt.% to 2.201 wt.% at optimum conditions. The semi-automated MPFA system was successfully used to enhance crude oil specifications sensitive and accurate manner.