1. n. [Well Completions]

A common type of mineral deposit that is often found on wellbore tubulars and components as the saturation of produced water is affected by changing temperature and pressure conditions in the production conduit. Carbonate scales have a high dissolution rate in common oilfield acids and generally can be effectively removed using acid or chemical treatments. Scale inhibition techniques also may be used to prevent scale formation. In the majority of cases, scale prevention is simpler and more cost-effective than attempting a cure.

See: scale inhibitor,  scale removal,  scale inhibitor squeeze