Importance

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Abstract

Wells drilled in poorly consolidated sand formations can be consolidated by heating a portion of the crude oil in situ in the bottom of the well so as to drive off the lighter ends leaving the heavy ends and asphaltenes at the bottom of the well. If additional pressure is then added at the top of the well, the heated fraction is forced into the surrounding cooler formations where it condenses and cools forming a semi-solid material tending to restrain sand from being produced upon further production of the well. The heated fluids will flow into any channels formed in the sand by said production. Continued application of pressure will cause flow channels to be formed in the cooling heavy portion by the light ends, ensuring permeability of the structure.

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First Claim