EOR Polymer Viscosity Management Key to Maximum Oil Production
Posted on Tue, Aug 16, 2011
Boston, MA – “Maximizing oil production while minimizing EOR
polymer costs is our objective,” says the lead engineer for one of Canada’s largest oil exploration and production (E&P) companies. Polymer viscosity management has become a hot topic in the industry during recent months. Polymers enable injected water to better match the viscosity of reservoir oil, which improves the water penetration into the rock pores to improve oil production. If the polymer solution is not balanced for the reservoir oil conditions, production can drop substantially, negating the benefits of the Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) process.
This Canadian E&P company is working with Cambridge Viscosity to dynamically manage the viscosity of their EOR polymers at the wellhead to maximize oil production, while reducing the amount of EOR polymer needed. They typically use one polymer mixing station and five platforms for polymer injection, with one platform for oil recovery for each oil well. The project utilizes Cambridge in-line
process viscometers at the blending and injecting locations to measure the viscosity of the polymer solutions. Viscosity information is sent to a centralized control facility where the polymer solution viscosities can be fine-tuned to maximize oil production.
The company selected Cambridge viscometers because they are accurate, rugged, vibration insensitive and compact enough to be installed in confined spaces. The viscometers are also well suited for the hazardous locations in which they are typically mounted. Cambridge Viscosity President Robert Kasameyer says “The expected return on investment for our E&P counterparts is substantial. This particular oil company expects a 20% increase in the amount of oil extracted and a significant reduction in the amount of food grade polymer they have to purchase.”
About Cambridge ViscosityCambridge Viscosity, the leader in compact, small sample viscometers, sets the standard for extraordinarily precise, reliable and low maintenance
viscosity measurement equipment, and control systems. Patented oscillating piston technology ensures accurate, true results across a broad range of lab and in-line applications, including refining and petrochemicals, oil and gas, coatings, paints and inks and pharmaceuticals.
Cambridge Viscosity's sensors and viscometer systems conform to ASTM, DIN, JIS and ISO standards, with a range of models designed to meet specific industry and application needs. Certifications include ATEX, CE, and FM. CSA certification is available upon request. Our global reach is important for providing engineering support and service wherever and whenever needed. For additional information visit:
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