Co-current and counter-current migration of gas kicks in `horizontal' wells

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-1999

Abstract

Results from experiments conducted in downward liquid-gas flows in inclined, eccentric annular pipes, with water and air as the working fluids, are presented. The gas was injected in the middle of the test-section length. The operating window, in terms of liquid and gas superficial velocities, within which counter-current gas flow occurs at two low inclination angles, has been determined experimentally. The counter-current flow observed was in the slug regime while the co-current one was stratified. Counter-current flow fraction and void fraction measurements were carried out at various liquid superficial velocities and gas-injection rates and correlated to visual observations through a full-scale transparent test section. Our results indicate that counter-current flow can be easily generated at small downward inclination angles, within the practical range of liquid superficial velocity for drilling operations. Such flow is also favored by low gas-injection rates.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Petroleum Division (Publication) PD

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS