--> Abstract: McKittrick Reservoir Modeling Study: Operation and Re-development Strategy, by R. Chiou; #90911 (2000)

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Abstract: McKittrick Reservoir Modeling Study: Operation and Re-development Strategy

CHIOU, RAY, Aera Energy LLC, Bakersfield, CA

This paper describes a reservoir modeling study for the steamflood in the Pliocene-Pleistocene Tulare Formation at Calso Fee in the McKittrick field. The primary objectives of the study were to optimize the steam injection schedule and establish a re-development strategy. A detailed 15-acre, 12-pattern geologic model was constructed and upscaled to a flow simulation model. The model requires 20 layers to adequately represent the heterogeneous characteristics of the flow units. The reservoir model was validated by history matching 10 years of field performance. During the history matching process, weaknesses in the reservoir description were identified and modifications in reservoir property attributes and the upscaling procedures were made to improve the model. Results show that profitability of the project can be improved by reducing the current steam injection. This prediction has been supported by measurable improvement to profitability in areas of the field where injection has been reduced. Insight into the re-development strategy indicates that a full development can not be supported by the existing injection wells due to a deterioration of steam conformance as more perforations were added. The best option is to twin the injection wells to separately support steam injection into the less mature upper sand and more mature lower sand. Ultimate recovery is now estimated at 60% versus 41% original-oil-in-place from previous evaluations.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90911©2000 AAPG Pacific Section and Western Region Society of Petroleum Engineers, Long Beach, California