Thermal Desorption of Drill Muds and Cuttings in Ecuador: The Environmental and Financially Sound Solution

Resumen

Abstract Oil base mud cuttings present a complex and costly waste management challenge. Indirect thermal desorption in conjunction with fluid recovery and reuse is widely recognized as the most promising means of achieving the zero discharge goal. Indirect thermal desorption offers a unique combination of compliance assurance and economic benefits. Thermal desorption technology, referred to as TPS, developed by SCC Environmental was selected by partners Arco Oriente Inc., Agip Oil Ecuador BV and Petroecuador to provide drilling waste management and fluid recovery for a pioneering E&P project located on Block 10 in the eco-sensitive Villano field of Ecuador.