M. Y. Soliman and Elias Pirayesh , Texas Tech University, Stan Cullick, L. East, Halliburton Energy Serv
The industry has developed methods to improve the sweep efficiency during EOR processes. These methods include the use of certain patterns, as well as horizontal or deviated wells. The goal of these processes is to create an even movement of injection fluid across the reservoir. Special chemicals have been used to divert the injected fluid to eliminate channeling and to improve sweep efficiency. This paper will present a new methodology to modify sweep patterns to positively impact recovery. The technique that is presented creates a mechanical barrier to flow by fracturing the formation at a strategic location. We illustrate the potential productivity increase of producing wells as a result of enhancing the horizontal and vertical sweep of the hydrocarbon. The paper also demonstrates that the combination of the barrier fractures
with other developed tools, such as inflow control devices and internal control valves, would further improve the productivity and economics of the system