Steam tested in light crude EOR (enhanced oil recovery)

Journal Article · · Well Serv.; ()

OSTI ID:6167255

Rintoul, B

Chevron USA Inc. is initiating a $30-million test in California's Buena Vista field to determine the commercial feasibility of using steam for the enhanced recovery of light crude. If steam flooding proves successful, it may be possible to recover an additional 6 million bbl of light crude from the field over the next 10 yr. The steam reduces the viscosity of the heavy oil, making it easier to recover through producing wells. With light oil, steam is expected to enhance recovery not only by providing sweep efficiency but also by partially distilling the oil in place, setting the stage for more complete recovery of light ends. Some of the distilled components also are expected to have a solvent effect, further improving recovery.

• OSTI ID: 6167255
• Journal Information: Well Serv.; (), Journal Name: Well Serv.; () Vol. 24:1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
020300* -- Petroleum-- Drilling & Production
CALIFORNIA
ENERGY SOURCES
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
FEDERAL REGION IX
FLUID INJECTION
FOSSIL FUELS
FUELS
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
MINERAL RESOURCES
NORTH AMERICA
OIL FIELDS
OIL WELLS
PETROLEUM
PETROLEUM DEPOSITS
RESOURCES
STEAM INJECTION
SWEEP EFFICIENCY
USA
VISCOSITY
WELLS