Abstract: In-service heaters in long-distance pipeline generally use crude oil as the fuel. High-temperature flue gas generated from combustion of crude oil has a direct effect on the pressure-bearing furnace tube so as to reduce service life and safe reliability of heaters. Current crude oil pipeline heaters are overhauled once every five years, with high repair costs and complex operation maintenance. The feasibility to develop a kind of electromagnetic heater for crude oil is analyzed from technology and economy. Mature electromagnetic heating technology can effectively increase the safe service life of heaters, reduce maintenance and repair costs of heaters, enhance automatic operation level and prevent environmental pollution. It is considered that to develop this technology will bring great economic and social benefits.