Interest revives in downhole oil-water separators.
As oil prices have increased, interest in downhole oil-water separators (DOWS) has returned after a 2-year lull caused by a low oil price and the nervousness of operators to install relatively unproven technology, which in many trials had proven uneconomical. DOWS technology aims to reduce produced water at the surface by separating it from oil downhole and simultaneously injecting it underground. The technology holds great promise for reducing produced-water disposal costs and protecting potable-water aquifers. It has, in some instances, increased oil production from wells in which it has been installed. During the last 2 years, some DOWS vendors have ceased actively marketing their DOWS technology for the time being. On the other hand, oil companies around the world are again seriously considering ordering or testing DOWS technology in 2001. The first offshore installation of a DOWS took place off China during 2000. Other offshore trials may follow this year. Several new variations on DOWS and remote separation systems offer potential for different market segments, and 2001 should be a more promising year for DOWS.
- Research Organization:
- Argonne National Lab. (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- FE
- DOE Contract Number:
- DE-AC02-06CH11357
- OSTI ID:
- 943227
- Report Number(s):
- ANL/EA/JA-38483; OIGJAV; TRN: US200916%%669
- Journal Information:
- Oil Gas J., Vol. 99, Issue 9 ; Feb. 26, 2001; ISSN 0030-1388
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- ENGLISH
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