Schlumberger reports the first ever application of multiphase flowmetering technology for steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) wells.

"Multiphase flow measurement is a new service for heavy oil and bitumen SAGD production," said Dr. Bruno Pinguet, multiphase domain champion, Schlumberger. "Extreme operating conditions such as high temperatures, unpredictable emulsion properties and a fourth phase—steam—have, until now, meant this type of flow monitoring was not possible with conventional technology in thermal heavy oil operations."

The multiphase flowmeter uses Vx* technology to measure the flowrate of each phase from the wellhead without the need for time-consuming separation tests. Vx technology is available in the Schlumberger PhaseTester* portable multiphase well testing equipment or PhaseWatcher* fixed multiphase well production monitoring equipment. The technology enables better understanding of the production dynamics of SAGD wells operated with high-temperature electric submersible pumps (ESP).

SAGD wells represent a new application extension for the field-proven Vx technology. As Schlumberger develops new services for heavy oil production, this test marks the first-ever multiphase metering operation in SAGD applications, and demonstrates the production optimization potential of this technology for more viscous oils. The test was completed at the site of a Canadian operator, Suncor Energy, in Alberta, Canada.

Tags: Schlumberger