Magnetic Ranging Technology for Drilling Operations
Abstract Steam-Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) represents a highly effective and innovative approach for enhancing oil production efficiency in Oman, particularly in the context of well-to-well injection techniques. As an advanced method of enhanced oil recovery, SAGD is specifically tailored for the extraction of heavy crude oil and bitumen, which are prevalent in certain regions of Oman. Occidental of Oman, already a leader in reservoir steam flood technology, was interested in conducting a horizontal SAGD pilot project in Oman. This technology builds upon traditional steam stimulation methods but introduces a more sophisticated mechanism that involves the strategic drilling of two horizontal wells into the oil reservoir. In this configuration, one horizontal well is drilled a few meters true vertical depth (TVD) above the other horizontal, creating a unique system that facilitates the efficient transfer of heat and oil. The upper well is utilized for the injection of steam, which serves to heat the surrounding oil reservoir and requires a perforated liner to be installed in the horizontal section. When steam is injected, the heating process significantly reduces the viscosity of the heavy crude oil, allowing it to flow more freely. As the oil becomes less viscous, it can then gravitate downwards into the lower well, where it is subsequently extracted for processing. The implementation of SAGD in Oman not only promises to increase production rates, but also enhances the overall efficiency of resource extraction. By optimizing the use of steam and leveraging the natural gravitational forces within the reservoir, SAGD minimizes the energy required for oil recovery, thereby promoting more sustainable practices in the oil industry. Furthermore, this technology aligns with Oman's broader goals of maximizing its hydrocarbon resources while ensuring environmental stewardship. As such, SAGD stands out as a pivotal technology that could significantly transform Oman's oil production landscape, driving both economic growth and technological advancement in the region. Occidental Oman: Top Independent Oil Producer in Oman Oxy Oman is a wholly owned subsidiary of Occidental (Oxy), an international oil and gas exploration and production company. Oxy has been producing in Oman for 40 years, where it has steadily increased production and reserves and is honored to partner with the Government of Oman. Today, Oxy is the largest independent oil producer operating in the country, covering more than 6 million gross acres. Oxo's major operations are located in northern Oman, primarily in Safah and Wadi Latham Fields in Block 9, Khamilah Field in Block 27, and in Block 62, where we operate the Muradi Huraymah gas plant, and in south-central Oman in Block 53 at Mukhaizna Field. One of Oxy targets is leaving Zero barrel behind. Therefore, this is a strategic project for Oxy and Oman.
Authors
- Salim Al Bahri
- Ahmed Al Musallami
- Greenwell Nicholas
Publication Details
- Published
- 2024-11-04
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.2118/222270-ms
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Drilling and Well Engineering
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.34