Numerical Study and Simulation of Vapor Extraction Processes in Hydrocarbon Recovery
Autour(s)
- Jane Kwong
Abstract
This study presents a detailed numerical investigation and simulation of vapor extraction processes used in hydrocarbon recovery. Vapor extraction, a key technique in enhanced oil recovery, has shown potential for improving efficiency and output in oil fields. By employing advanced simulation methods, this research aims to analyze the dynamics of vapor extraction and identify the critical parameters affecting its performance. The findings highlight the effectiveness of numerical studies in optimizing hydrocarbon recovery processes and provide valuable insights for future advancements in the field. This study presents a comprehensive numerical analysis and simulation of vapor extraction (VAPEX) processes in hydrocarbon recovery, focusing on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of oil extraction from heavy oil reservoirs. Utilizing advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models, we simulate the injection of a vaporized solvent into the reservoir to mobilize and extract heavy hydrocarbons. The numerical models incorporate key physical phenomena, including multiphase flow, mass transfer, and thermodynamic interactions between the solvent and the oil. By optimizing parameters such as solvent type, injection rate, and reservoir characteristics, our simulations provide valuable insights into the VAPEX process, highlighting potential improvements in recovery rates and operational efficiency. The results underscore the importance of precise numerical modeling in predicting the performance of vapor extraction techniques and offer practical guidelines for field implementation to maximize hydrocarbon recovery.