Effect of operational parameters on SAGD performance in a dip heterogeneous fractured reservoir

Abstract Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) has been studied theoretically, experimentally and numerically as a promising EOR process. Most of the simulation works have been conducted microscopically in homogeneous non-dipping models. In this communication, the effect of operational parameters on SAGD performance is investigated in a dip heterogeneous naturally fractured reservoir (NFR) with oil wet rock using CMG-STARS thermal simulator. The results indicate that reservoir dip has unfavorable effects on SAGD performance due to overriding effect. Moreover, less oil saturation of matrix causes steam to penetrate into upper blocks. It has also been observed that reservoir thickness controls operational parameters. Furthermore, the results indicate that there is no need for more preheating due to desired heat communication between well pair. As it was expected, higher steam injection rate leads to more oil production. Besides, longer well pairs have no considerable effects on SAGD performance in dip reservoirs. Besides, because of quick reservoir depletion in injection at high pressure, SAGD is not recommended economically in thinner reservoirs.