paraffinic hydrocarbon — Oil & Gas Glossary

The group of hydrocarbons consisting of linear molecules with the formula CnH2n+2. Methane, CH4, is the simplest member. Higher members, starting at about C18, are wax-like and are called paraffin. Excessive amounts of paraffinic hydrocarbons in an oil mud adversely affect mud flow and oil removal from cuttings at cool temperatures.