Well Bore Heat Loss - Options & Challenges for Steam Injector of Thermal EOR Project in Oman

Abstract

Abstract Wellbore heat loss is an important factor in steam flooding. It influences the magnitude and form that heat energy is injected into the reservoir, which impacts final recovery and project economics as well as flooding conformance in the context of viscous fingering of the liquid phase. Sufficient down hole steam quality is critical for the success of steam flooding projects. Heat loss can be measured by steam quality change from wellhead to bottom hole. Many factors affect down hole steam quality, such as completion design and injection rate. It is a reservoir management and production surveillance challenge to obtain quantifiable down hole steam quality values. Unfortunately, reliable down hole steam quality measurement is still effectively unavailable. This paper introduces a study and practice for steam injection wellbore heat loss modeling for Mukhaizna steam flood project in Oman. A state-of-the-art numerical thermal well model is used, supported by some empirical data calibration. Important influencing factors are discussed in the paper including completion design, injection rate, reservoir pressure, etc. The findings of this study strengthen and enhance the knowledge and understanding of steam injector behavior. Some useful practical guidelines for injection well design and field operation are recommended.