Inventors:
Matthew J. Kintzele - Iraan TX
Assignee:
Marathon Oil Company - Findlay OH
International Classification:
E21B 4338
US Classification:
166265, 166 901, 1661055, 1663051
Abstract:
A method and a system for producing fluids, particularly hydrocarbons and water, from a subterranean well are provided. The method and system can be used with a well in which the production zone is above the injection zone, or with a well in which the production zone is below the injection zone. The method includes the step of separating a well fluid into a hydrocarbon stream and a separate water stream, while simultaneously injecting a chemical into a selected zone of the well. The system includes a downhole separation system for performing the separating step, and a chemical injection system for performing the injecting step. The separation system can include a separator apparatus for separating the well fluid into the separate streams, an injection pump for pumping the well fluid into the separator apparatus, and a hydrocarbon pump for pumping the hydrocarbon stream to the surface, The chemical can be injected into a production zone of the well and transported by the water stream into an injection zone of the well, such that both well zones are treated by the chemical. Alternately, the chemical can be injected directly into the injection zone of the well.