Case history of the Tensleep Reservoir, Torchlight Field, Wyoming

Journal Article · Fri Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1965 · Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/1166-PA· OSTI ID:6623318

Willingham, R W; Howald, C D

The Torchlight Field, operated by Pan American Corp., is located on the E. side of the Big Horn basin in Big Horn County, Wyo. Orchard Unit Well No. 1, the Tensleep discovery well, was completed in 1947. The 33/sup 0/ API gravity Tensleep crude was found undersaturated and hydraulically contained in the anticlinal reservoir by a tilted water table. After development, fluid producing rate and reservoir pressure declined rapidly. Field performance indicated the reservoir was producing by a limited water drive and would require over 25 yr for depletion. Comparisons are made between field producing rates and rates predicted by water influx theory. Prediction rates are 10-15% higher than actual rates. The difference is probably due to reservoir pressure being higher than that assumed in the prediction. Supplemental water injection was started in Oct 1957, to reduce reservoir life and increase oil rates. Oil response was immediate and reached a maximum rate of 1785 bbl/d in 1959. By Jan 1965, the reservoir had been essentially depleted after producing 2,774,000 bbl of oil.

• Research Organization: Pan American Petr Corp; Pan American Petr Corp
• OSTI ID: 6623318
• Journal Information: Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States), Journal Name: Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States) Vol. SPE1166; ISSN SEAPA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
020300* -- Petroleum-- Drilling & Production
ENGINEERING
FLUID INJECTION
FORECASTING
NORTH AMERICA
OIL WELLS
PRODUCTIVITY
RESERVOIR ENGINEERING
RESERVOIR PRESSURE
ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION
USA
WATERFLOODING
WELLS
WYOMING