THERMAL HYDROCARBON RECOVERY METHOD WITH NON-CONDENSABLE GAS INJECTION

摘要

A method for recovering subsurface hydrocarbons, including heavy oil or bitumen, wherein a heated non-condensable gas such as nitrogen is injected downhole to heat the reservoir, followed by a steam injection step to heat the hydrocarbon to enable its flow to the wellbore and production to surface. The dual injection method can be repeated as desired to enhance production of the hydrocarbon resource, and in the case of cyclic steam stimulation would involve a period of shutting in the well after injection of the non-condensable gas and steam prior to the production phase.

主权项

1. A method for recovering a hydrocarbon from a reservoir, the method comprising the steps of:
a. drilling at least one well from surface to the reservoir; b. heating a volume of non-condensable gas to a target temperature; c. injecting the non-condensable gas down the at least one well to the reservoir; d. allowing the non-condensable gas to heat the reservoir and the hydrocarbon; e. injecting steam down the at least one well to the reservoir; f. allowing the steam to heat the reservoir and the hydrocarbon; and g. producing a portion of the hydrocarbon to the surface.