The objective of this study is to develop accurate models for predicting oil recovery in naturally fractured reservoirs by steam injection. This objective is being met through an integrated experimental, numerical, and analytical study of the recovery mechanisms that control oil recovery for this process. These mechanisms include capillary imbibition, thermal expansion, gas generation from chemical reactions, and temperature-dependent thermal properties.

Due to a sharp fall in oil prices in late 2014, many oil exploration companies have either stopped operations or postponed projects to a future date. The resulting slowdown has strengthened the dependency on existing developed fields for oil production. This is a cause of concern for major oil corporations and governments worldwide, as the dependence on mature fields suggests that conventional oil extraction techniques may not be enough to maintain current demand and may lead to significant profit losses. Thus, the development of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) (also known as tertiary recovery) methods to improve recovery from developed fields has attracted attention.Thermal recovery, a widely used EOR method in heavy oil reservoirs, involves the introduction of heat into the formation to reduce the viscosity of the oil in the reservoir. Cyclic steam stimulation (CSS) is an effective thermal process used with naturally fractured reservoirs. The cyclic steam injection (CSI) method incorporates the stages of injecting, soaking and production one by one in a single well.The use of a commercial simulator for estimating production is common. However, the process can be time consuming and complex. Alternatively, it is possible to achieve results within seconds using an adequately trained artificial neural network (ANN).This study analyzes CSI performance based on its effectiveness with respect to viscosity contours and cumulative oil production. Naturally fractured reservoirs are excellent targets for steam injection because they possess a structure where steam can easily diffuse.

Fundamentals of Enhanced Oil and Gas Recovery from Conventional and Unconventional Reservoirs delivers the proper foundation on all types of currently utilized and upcoming enhanced oil recovery, including methods used in emerging unconventional reservoirs. Going beyond traditional secondary methods, this reference includes advanced water-based EOR methods which are becoming more popular due to CO2 injection methods used in EOR and methods specific to target shale oil and gas activity. Rounding out with a chapter devoted to optimizing the application and economy of EOR methods, the book brings reservoir and petroleum engineers up-to-speed on the latest studies to apply. Enhanced oil recovery continues to grow in technology, and with ongoing unconventional reservoir activity underway, enhanced oil recovery methods of many kinds will continue to gain in studies and scientific advancements. Reservoir engineers currently have multiple outlets to gain knowledge and are in need of one product go-to reference. Explains enhanced oil recovery methods, focusing specifically on those used for unconventional reservoirs Includes real-world case studies and examples to further illustrate points Creates a practical and theoretical foundation with multiple contributors from various backgrounds Includes a full range of the latest and future methods for enhanced oil recovery, including chemical, waterflooding, CO2 injection and thermal

Thermal Methods, Volume Two, the latest release in the Enhanced Oil Recovery series, helps engineers focus on the latest developments in this fast-growing area. In the book, different techniques are described in addition to the latest technologies in data mining and hybrid processes. Supported field case studies are included to illustrate a bridge between research and practical applications, making it useful for both academics and practicing engineers. Structured to start with thermal concepts and steam flooding, the book's editors then advance to more complex content, guiding engineers into areas such as hybrid thermal methods and edgier technologies that bridge solar and nuclear energy. Supported by a full spectrum of contributors, this book gives petroleum engineers and researchers the latest research developments and field applications to drive innovation for the future of energy. Presents the latest understanding surrounding the updated research and practical applications specific to thermal enhanced oil recovery methods Provides an analysis of editors’ research on available technology, including hybrid thermal-solvent processes and dual pipe configurations Teaches about additional methods, such as data mining applications, and economic and environmental considerations