Abstract: Deep, Low Pressure Gas Zone Revitalization, North Belridge Field, CA

CLANTON, RAY, Aera Energy LLC, Bakersfield, CA; ROY ENGINEER, Aera Energy LLC, Bakersfield, CA; DAWN HANSON, Aera Energy LLC, Bakersfield, CA; TED HEROIAN, Schlumberger, Bakersfield, CA; MOHAMMOD SIDDIQUI, Schlumberger, Bakersfield, CA

A deep gas field was discovered by the Belridge oil company in 1932, and most of drilling completed by 1942. The reservoir was poorly managed because six producing companies were involved with no conservation agreement. Crestal infill drilling and add pay potential exists because previous operators were avoiding producing the gas in 1932.

A Shell study in December 1986 concluded that 85% of OOIP is in place but that it is uneconomic to recover by waterflood and therefore blowdown should commence. Some work was done from 1986 to 1999, however, there was not a concentrated effort until an interdisciplinary team was formed in late 1998. Schlumberger is a partner in this work. This presentation briefly covers: Background of the deep, low pressure gas zone including geology. Method of attack to revitalize the field. Best practices for kill fluid, acidizing, and unloading wells. Working with old master valves in poor condition (changing out with minimal kill fluid). Gas testing and allocation methods. Flowing wells and Artificial lift practices for gas wells at 8,000'. Results of the 1999 work.

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