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U.S. Department of Energy
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Steam drive in an oil-bearing stratum adjacent a gas zone

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6093207
A broad aspect of the invention comprises fracturing an oil stratum lying adjacent a gas zone at a level remote from the gas zone through an injection well penetrating the stratum. A driving fluid such as steam is injected into the fracture toward at least one offset production well, injecting a non-condensible gas through the injection well into the gas zone so as to obstruct the passage of driving fluid into this zone and recovering oil from the production well. The permeable walls of the fracture are at least partially plugged by injecting an aqueous slurry of a particulate solid plugging agent, such as clay, and the injection pressure is applied so as to extend the fracture deeper into the stratum. The extension of the fracture deeper into the stratum is usually effected with fracturing fluid free of plugging agent. After extending the fracture deeper into the stratum is usually effected with fracturing fluid free of plugging agent. After extending the fracture with fracturing fluid free of plugging agent. After extending the fracture deeper into the stratum, the injection of steam or other driving fluid is resumed. (8 claims)
Assignee:
Phillips Petroleum Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 3358759
OSTI ID:
6093207
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English