Natural gas liquids: What is meant by “casing-head gasoline” obtained in oil and gas operations?

Introduction / Context:
In petroleum production, associated gas emerging with crude oil often contains heavier hydrocarbons. When compressed and cooled, part of this mixture may condense into a liquid hydrocarbon stream historically termed casing-head gasoline or natural gasoline.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Wet natural gas contains C3+ components that can condense under modest compression and cooling.
• Field equipment can separate a liquid hydrocarbon phase for shipment or stabilization.
• This condensed liquid resembles a light naphtha/gasoline-range stream.

Concept / Approach:

By raising pressure and sometimes lowering temperature, the heavier ends of associated gas condense into a liquid. This is not the same as pipeline-quality dry gas. The condensed liquid is termed casing-head gasoline and can be stabilized and blended into refinery naphtha or gasoline pools after appropriate treatment.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Field practices include lease condensate and natural gasoline recovery in stabilization units and field separators. These streams are distinct from pure propane or butane products.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Propane/Butane alone: Pure C3 or C4 streams are specific LPG cuts, not the multicomponent liquid called casing-head gasoline. Natural gas: Refers to the gaseous phase, not the condensed liquid.

Common Pitfalls:

Equating LPG components with natural gasoline; ignoring the mixed C5+ character of the condensed liquid.

Final Answer:

Gasoline condensed from wet natural gas by compression at the wellhead