Evaluation of In-Situ Combustion Efficiency in Karazhanbas Oilfield, Western Kazakhstan

Abstract

Abstract Among various processes of EOR, in-situ combustion (ISC) received an increased attention in the world. Such specific features as applying to deep reservoirs and at any stages of depletion, lack of transport heat losses, cheap working agent (air) makes this method most thermally efficient and economically comparable to steamflooding. The Karazhanbas experience of ISC implementation is a bright example of well-designed project. After the estimation of reserves in 1978 there were created two large fields to develop thermal EOR methods. They are the VVG field to develop in-situ combustion and the PTV field to develop the steam flooding. Unfortunately, this project was not fully completed and was interrupted before the planned deadline because of the current economic situation in the country in the 90s. Anyway the project demonstrated high technological and economic efficiency. The study (article) describes a history of project, results of logging data, problems encountered during combustion process and comparative analysis of developed and existing methods.