Interpretation of steam drive pilots in the Belridge Diatomite
The South Belridge Diatomite Field contains more than 2.5 billion barrels of oil-in-place. Current primary and waterflood development are estimated to recover only a small fraction of this oil. Despite its low permeability, the diatomite may be a good candidate for the steam drive process, due to its thick oil column (1,000 ft), high porosity (50% to 65%), and high oil saturation (up to 70%). With these attributes, thermal expansion and decreased viscosity of reservoir fluids accelerate oil production, without significant heat loss to cap and base rock. Steam drive pilot operations have been conducted at South Belridge since 1986. This paper discusses the pilot projects and the 15-acre steam drive full-scale project currently being installed.
- OSTI ID:
- 403041
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9603154--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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