University of Liege | Version française
Study programmes 2011-2012Last update : 14/06/2012
GEOL0299-1  Techniques of extraction of heavy oils

Duration :  15h Th
Number of credits :  
Master in Geology, Research Focus, 1st yearFirst semester3
Master in Geological SciencesFirst semester3
Lecturer :  Xavier Limpens
Language(s) of instruction :  
French language
Course contents :  
As a starting point, a worldwide review of the production and developed reserves of the non conventional oil is presented including future outlook.

The « methodology to produce hydrocarbon in general » and the basis for « hydrocarbon numerical simulation in porous media » are reviewed.

The petroleum and mining production techniques are described for the extra heavy oil.(cold and hot production) .

The main refining process units are also explained.

Finally an introduction to the shale gas is proposed.
Learning outcomes of the course :  
Introduction to the non conventional oil production and in particular the heavy oil.
Prerequisites and co-requisites/ Recommended optional programme components :  
15 first hours of " Hydrocarbon origin and production " (GEOL0008-1).
Planned learning activities and teaching methods :  
The course will have a total of 12 hours of formal presentation and 3 hours of workshop to work out exercises as follows :

1. Context (countries, resources, reserves and importance).

2. Fluids and sands characteristics and flowing properties.

3. Production techniques :
3.1. Petroleum techniques (natural flow and steam injection); Sincor example in Venezuela.
3.2. Mining techniques; example in Canada.

4. Surface facilities for the extra heavy oil process:
4.1. Oil / water / gas separation.
4.2. Oil / sand separation and water handling..
4.3. Extra heavy crude transportation.

5. Crude oil refining: Sincor upgrader example.

6. Business and environment evaluation:
6.1. Cost estimate.
6.2. Introduction to the economics.
6.3. Environment impact assessment.

7. Introduction to the gas shales.

Workshops : the exercises are based on the main formulas for the hydrocarbon oil in place, reservoir flow and ultimate recovery.
Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning) :  
Face-to-face.
Recommended or required readings :  
Powerpoint paper copy only.
Assessment methods and criteria :  
Face to face control of the knowledge with sufficient preparation time after receiving two questions, one on theory and one on exercise.
Contacts :  
Xavier Limpens
TOTAL, Exploration et Production, détaché à la NCOC à Londres


tél.: +44 203 18 90 702
e-mail : xavier.limpens@ncoc.kz


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