Heavy and Ultra-heavy Oilfield Development via Well Borehole Heating

Abstract

This paper considers the problem of exploitation of fields containing heavy and ultra-heavy oil. The work contains a classification and methods of exploitation of such deposits for all regions of the world containing similar resources. For the production of such oil, it is proposed to create and use a thermolift in the wells to improve the efficiency of the fields and well operation. The possibility of using a thermal elevator in the wells is proposed. To create a thermal elevator in wells it is proposed to use electrochemical generators with solid oxide electrolyte. The constructive scheme and its justification for the use of such batteries in wells are given. Electrochemical generators are resource-saving, environmentally friendly and explosion-proof devices using different types of fuel. Two options of creating a thermolift by using electrochemical generators with solid oxide elements are considered.