Development of downhole steam generation systems and injection string modifications for deep steam injection

Conference · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1978

OSTI ID:6705987

Fox, R L

The use of steam injection for reservoirs deeper than 2500 feet becomes unprofitable due to heat losses from the injection string and mechanical failures resulting from the high thermal and mechanical stress required for steam delivery to deep reservoirs. Thus, the application of steam flood techniques to significant numbers of deep reservoirs requires either advancement in key well completion components or development of downhole steam generation devices. A program was initiated in 1978 to develop the technology required for deep steam generation. The activities and plans for improvement of surface injection of steam and for the development of a downhole steam generator are reviewed. Economic surface injection requires reduction in heat loss from the injection string and improvement of other components. Heat loss mechanisms and possible approaches to reducing that loss are examined. Development activities aimed at reducing problems in packers and other components are discussed. A promising alternative to surface generation and injection is to produce the steam in the reservoir using a downhole steam generator. Possible approaches to such a generator are reviewed. Designs currently in development are examined in detail. Problems as formation plugging, gravity override, and combustion at high pressure are reviewed along with the studies in progress to overcome those problems.

• Research Organization: Sandia Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: EY-76-C-04-0789
• OSTI ID: 6705987
• Report Number(s): SAND-78-0652C; CONF-780825-4
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
020300* -- Petroleum-- Drilling & Production
BOILERS
BOREHOLES
CAVITIES
DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMS
ENERGY LOSSES
ENERGY SOURCES
ENHANCED RECOVERY
FLUID INJECTION PROCESSES
FOSSIL FUELS
FUELS
HEAT LOSSES
OIL WELLS
PETROLEUM
PLUGGING
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
STEAM GENERATORS
VAPOR GENERATORS
WELL STIMULATION
WELLS