Benjamin L. Routh, Rice Engineering & Operating, Inc.
The energy provided by salt water in an oil reservoir is one of the best known oil recovery mechanisms. Salt water should be considered a tremendous asset to oil production, rather than a liability, and it should be intelligently handled. Progressive companies recognize the value of salt water, as well as its dangers. Provision for its handling is made in the budget along with other development and operating costs. The most satisfactory method of disposing of large volumes of salt water in inland areas is by subsurface well disposal. A properly installed system does not "just happen"; it must be designed in detail and have adequate supervision, preferably by experienced personnel, during installation. Because of the corrosive nature of oil field waters, consideration should be given to the economy of corrosion resistant materials. The disposal well is the "heart" of a salt water disposal system and must be well protected, as it should be the last well in an oil pool to be plugged. The cooperative system to serve an entire pool provides for the most efficient handling of salt water disposal.