Design study of a crude oil modification device based on a sinusoidal attenuated electric field

Waxy crude oil experiences an increase in viscosity and a decrease in flowability under low-temperature conditions, which affects its transportation and processing. The electric field, as an effective method for crude oil modification, can increase the molecular dipole moment by polarizing the molecules, thereby weakening intermolecular forces and reducing viscosity. Based on the dipole moment characteristics of waxy crude oil molecules, this paper designs an experimental device capable of generating a high-frequency sinusoidal decaying electric field. The core of the device uses a single-phase five-level inverter topology and introduces a dynamic decay feedback control system. Through a dual-loop feedback mechanism, the electric field strength, frequency, and decay coefficient are dynamically adjusted to achieve precise control over the viscosity reduction process of crude oil. The device is applied in viscosity reduction experiments, where different wax-content crude oil samples are treated under static conditions. By adjusting the electric field strength, frequency, and decay coefficient, the experimental device can effectively reduce the viscosity of crude oils with varying wax content, demonstrating the device’s effectiveness.