Cross SAGD

A new approach to steam assisted gravity drainage.

SPE paper I97647-PA introduces a variation of Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) known as Cross SAGD (XSAGD). In XSAGD, the injection wells are placed perpendicular to the producing wells. Sections of the wells near the intersection points of the injector and producer are restricted or plugged for improved steam-trap control. This in turn minimizes steam channeling and allows greater drawdown rates while managing steam breakthrough and sand production at the producer.XSAGD on the other hand may have poorer economics as opposed to SAGD as initial production rates tend to be lower as the steam trap is established. Also if the restricted or plugged zones need to be re-completed later in the project, this adds cost and operational risk.

XSAGD appears to be an interesting approach worth further review - I would be interested to hear via our online Forum if anyone has tried XSAGD and any results you could share.

Kambiz.