NORM Scale Removal Using a High-Power Fiber Laser Beam Delivery
Abstract In oil and gas operations, there is a potential for NORM scale to accumulate on process piping and equipment. This scale can be removed prior to recycling or disposal of the material, yet common removal methods may be costly, time consuming, or create large volumes of secondary waste streams that must be managed. The feasibility of using a laser beam delivery to remove NORM scale was investigated because of its potential to reduce the time and cost associated with scale removal without creating large secondary waste streams. Results from this study indicate that a laser beam delivery could be an effective method to remove NORM scale from a steel surface. Background levels of alpha and beta surface contamination and gamma exposure rate were achieved for certain pipe sections when applying a laser power of at least 5 kW. Alternative laser powers, linear speeds, or incident angles may optimize the removal efficiency for thicker scales or scales with higher surface contamination or gamma exposure rates.