Effects of grid type and difference scheme on pattern steamflood simulation results

Journal Article · Thu May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1986 · J. Pet. Technol.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/11079-PA· OSTI ID:5719358

Coats, K H; Ramesh, A B

This paper presents five-, seven-, and nine-spot pattern steamflood simulation results with parallel and diagonal grids and five- and nine-point difference schemes. The effects of difference scheme and grid orientation are examined in a two-dimensional (2D) (vertical) cross section. Effects of different types of grid spacings in cyclic steam simulation are discussed. Sample problem data sets are roughly representative of a California deposit and a more viscous Alberta crude. Various seven-spot grids (neither parallel nor diagonal) and nonuniform five-/nine-spot grids pose unique challenges to both difference schemes, with interesting results. The conclusions emphasize superiority of the nine-point difference scheme and the pitfalls of certain problem/grid/difference-scheme combinations in pattern steamflood simulation. Nine-point transmissibility alterations are used that allow rigorous use of 1/8 five-/nine-spot patterns as opposed to 1/2 or 1/4 elements with either parallel or diagonal grids. This is important because of significantly reduced cost compared with 1/4- or 1/2-pattern elements. Subject to certain conditions, the paper presents a simple procedure to calculate well-productivity indices for uniform or nonuniform grids, cross sections, or any of the three patterns, and either of the two difference schemes.

• Research Organization: Scientific Software-Intercomp
• OSTI ID: 5719358
• Journal Information: J. Pet. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Pet. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 38:5; ISSN JPTJA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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