Enhanced Recovery by Injection of Treated Exhaust Gases from Existing Engines. Phase I Report, September 21, 1978-July 31, 1979

摘要

The inert gas system being developed under DOE contract produces a non-corrosive gas consisting of approximately 88% nitrogen, 12% carbon dioxide, to be used for oil and gas field enhanced recovery programs. The system treats the engine exhaust of oil field engines which power the compressors for injecting the inert gas into the underground formations. In Phase I the potential of the system to increase oil and gas production was studied, a technical feasibility study done, and the designs of the component and pilot plant test stands developed. The major components of the system were evaluated and a thermal reactor designed for testing. In addition, a study of the system economics was made in order to estimate the cost of the inert gas. It is concluded that inert gas has the potential to add 3.3 billion barrels of oil to reserves and to increase production of natural gas by 10 trillion cubic feet. Technically, it is concluded that there are no significant barriers to development of the system. It is recommended that the program proceed to Phase II so that operating data can be developed to provide the basis for further evaluations of the commercial attractiveness of the system with regard to economics and reliability. (ERA citation 05:014768)