Reservoir simulation with history-dependent saturation functions
A history-dependent model for saturation functions, combined with a three-dimensional, three-phase, semi-implicit reservoir simulator, has been developed. In water-coning simulations with variable rates, for waterflooding in the presence of free gas saturations, and for gas-cap shrinkage, use of hysteresis in saturation functions shows results significantly different from those obtained by conventional methods. To some extent, the model is based upon remembering the saturation history of the reservoir. In doing this, smooth transitions of both relative permeabilities and capillary pressures from drainage-to-imbibition or imbibition-to-drainage states are allowed. In addition, the effect of trapped gas or oil saturations on relative permeabilities and capillary pressures is accounted for. Tests of the model indicate that simulation with hysteresis is a stable procedure requiring little more computation time and storage than normal simulations. In addition, results of these tests agree qualitatively with experimental and field results.
- Research Organization:
- Exxon Production Research Co., Houston, TX
- OSTI ID:
- 7177848
- Journal Information:
- Soc. Pet. Eng. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Soc. Pet. Eng. J.; (United States) Vol. 16:1; ISSN SPTJA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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