Gel placement in production wells Academic Article

abstract

• Straightforward applications of fractional-flow theory and material-balance calculations demonstrate that, if zones are not isolated during gel placement in production wells, gelant can penetrate significantly into all open zones, not just those with high water saturations. Unless oil saturations in the oil-productive zones are extremely high, oil productivity will be damaged even if the gel reduces water permeability without affecting oil permeability. Also, in field applications, capillary pressure will not prevent gelant penetration into oil-productive zones. An explanation is provided for the occurrence of successful applications of gels in fractured wells produced by bottomwater drive. With the right properties, gels could significantly increase the critical rate for water influx in fractured wells.

authors

• Liang, Jenn-Tai

published proceedings

• SPE Production and Facilities

author list (cited authors)

• Liang, J. T., Lee, R. L., & Seright, R. S.

complete list of authors

• Liang, JT||Lee, RL||Seright, RS

publication date

• November 1993

published in

• SPE Production and Operations  Journal

start page

• 276

end page

• 284

volume

• 8

issue

• 4