Advanced Technology To Reduce Water Cut: Case Studies From the Pemex Southern Region

Abstract

Summary This paper presents the results of a successful application of a new-generation polymeric relative permeability modifier (RPM) that enables treatments to reduce water cut without workover equipment. The new RPM can be bullheaded into open intervals without the need for isolating water zones from hydrocarbon zones. This treatment was applied to several wells in the Pemex southern region. As a result of the treatment, the productive life of the wells has been extended, with a gradual decrease in water cut. These results indicate high potential profitability values for mature fields with high water cut requiring a simple, low-cost treatment without the need for workover equipment or shut-in times. The new treatment can increase the hydrocarbon recovery percentage in sands that in all probability would be destined for abandonment otherwise. This paper describes the treatment methodology, which begins with problem identification and an understanding of the origin of the water breakthrough. Next, the paper describes the new technology, which uses hydrophobically modified water-soluble polymers, and explains how applying such polymers can control water selectively. In addition, the detailed execution of the treatment is described, followed by the very positive production results of the treatment. The results of this low-investment, high-profit technology are very promising for other wells under similar conditions in which workovers with conventional technologies would be cost prohibitive.