WORKHORSE SYSTEM
Watch how the Alfaluz Workhorse solves the challenge of producing oil sands in the demanding conditions in Canada.
(5 minute video)
THERMAL (SAGD & OTHER) & MINING PRODUCTION CHALLENGES
Unconsolidated sandstone deposits known as oil sands are comprised primarily of sand, clay and water saturated with bitumen.
Bitumen is a highly viscous and extra-heavy hydrocarbon with an average API gravity of 8°. It can be separated into two organic compounds: asphaltenes and maltenes.
Asphaltenes have a heavy molecular structure, imparting a high viscosity and density to the oil. They contain nickel, sulfur, vanadium, and ultra-fine particles that reduce the quality of the produced crude oil and make it expensive and difficult to transport and refine.
The main challenge facing mining operations is obtaining higher profit margins from bitumen without generating toxic tailing ponds, for which the Workhorse is used. For thermal operations (SAGD and others), the challenge is to avoid requiring large amounts of diluent and chemicals, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce C02 emissions and energy costs. For these applications, the M-CRACK is used.
