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Effect of the capillary number and its constituents on two-phase relative permeability curves

Conference · · Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5718481

The goal of this study is to determine the effect of the capillary number, a dimensionless group describing the ratio of viscous to capillary forces, on 2-phase (oil-water) relative permeability curves. Specifically, a series of steady-state relative permeability measurements were conducted to determine if the capillary number causes changes in the 2-phase permeabilities or if any one of its constituents, such as flow velocity, fluid viscosity, or interfacial tension, are the controlling variables. For the core tests, run in fired Berea Sandstone, a Soltrol 170 oil-calcium chloride brine-isopropyl alcohol- glycerin system was utilized. A relative permeability model was developed from the experimental data, based on fluid saturations, interfacial tension, fluid viscosities, and the residual saturations, using regression analysis. 24 references.

OSTI ID:
5718481
Report Number(s):
CONF-8310121-
Journal Information:
Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States), Journal Name: Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States) Vol. SPE-12170; ISSN SEAPA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English