METHOD FOR INITIATING STEAM-ASSISTED GRAVITY DRAINAGE

摘要

A method for initiating steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) for mobilization and recovery of hydrocarbons in a hydrocarbon-bearing formation includes a step of initially forming a circulation path by connecting SAGD injection well and a circulation well. The circulation well can be a SAGD production well or a separate well completed adjacent a toe of the injection well. Initially, a thermal carrier such as steam or flue gases, is circulated, forming a thermal chamber about the injection well. One initial start-up is complete, the circulation path is decoupled for further propagating the thermal chamber and establishing steady-state SAGD operations.