Paper: Secondary Recovery Services Fact or Fiction

The success or failure of secondary recovery efforts is largely dependent upon the proper analysis of downhole and reservoir fluid movement characteristics, and control of these conditions to maximum displacement efficiency. The indigent reservoir reactions under secondary efforts differ dramatically from normal primary production systems. These differences generate a need for individualized analysis and correction of each problem. Many tools, materials, and techniques have evolved or have been adapted to assist with these controls; but as in all efforts, the application must suit the need lest experimentation or "trial and error" methods result in added costs that render the total economics undesirable or prohibitive. The variety of monitoring and control methods available through the service industries suggests that selective application must be made, but the tendency to assume the "single method panacea" is encouraged by individual competitive sales efforts. Problems are frequently aggravated by the misapplication of services, the least consequence being failure of the specific effort, if not irreparable damage to the project. A general awareness of the specific nature and field of limitations of these many "special services and materials is needed to aid in the selection of the proper tool or technique for the job to be done.