Enhancing the efficiency of large-volume water shut-off jobs in producing wells using thermotropic gelling argent

UDK: 622.276.76

DOI: 10.24887/0028-2448-2025-5-99-102

Key words: water shut-off jobs (WSO), large-volume water shut-off jobs (LVWSO), thermotropic gelling argent (TGA), early water encroachment, well coning, bottom water, carbonate reservoir, Zapadno-Khosedayuskoye field

Authors: M.G. Kubrak (ZN BV LLC, RF, Moscow); R.V. Sapelchenko (RUSVIETPETRO JV LLC, RF, Moscow); A.N. Stepanov (ZN NTC LLC, RF, Moscow); Pham Khac Dat (RUSVIETPETRO JV LLC, RF, Moscow); O.N. Zoshchenko (RUSVIETPETRO JV LLC, RF, Moscow); D.M. Ponomarenko (RUSVIETPETRO JV LLC, RF, Moscow)

The article deals with the problem of early water encroachment of producing wells caused by the tightening of the cone of bottom water. This issue is particularly significant in carbonate reservoirs, where the high heterogeneity of the formation complicates the isolation of water-saturated intervals. The study proposes the use of thermotropic gelling agents (TGA) for large-volume water shut-off jobs (LVWSO). The article presents the results of the implemented pilot work program at one of the carbonate oil fields of the Timan-Pechora province. The criteria for selecting candidate wells, the characteristics of the TGA used, and the technology for conducting workover operations are explored in the article. Emphasis is placed on the importance of choosing the optimal TGA composition based on laboratory studies and pilot testing. Furthermore, a methodology for evaluating the technological effectiveness of water shut-off jobs (WSO) is introduced. The study compares WSO with LVWSO, demonstrating that the application of TGA leads to a significant increase in oil production while reducing water content. The results of the study can be used to enhance the efficiency of oil field development, particularly those affected by early water encroachment. By optimizing LVWSO design and utilizing TGA, there is a potential to increase both the economic and technological efficiency of oil fields development.

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