The oil and gas industry constantly seeks innovative solutions to maximize resource extraction and improve operational efficiency. In the realm of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and drilling fluid management, Polyacrylamide (PAM) has proven to be an invaluable chemical additive. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. explores the critical applications of PAM in the upstream sector, highlighting its contribution to increased oil production and operational streamlining.

In the context of oil recovery, PAM primarily serves two key functions: as a viscosity modifier in polymer flooding for EOR, and as a friction reducer in drilling fluids and hydraulic fracturing. The effectiveness of PAM in these applications stems from its unique polymer structure and its ability to alter fluid properties.

Polyacrylamide in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR)

In traditional waterflooding, injected water often bypasses a significant amount of oil trapped in reservoir pores due to unfavorable viscosity differences between water and oil. Polymer flooding, a technique that utilizes polymers like PAM, addresses this challenge. When PAM is dissolved in the injection water, it significantly increases the water's viscosity. This viscous water can then:

  • Improve Sweep Efficiency: The higher viscosity of the polymer solution makes it more effective at pushing oil through the reservoir. It reduces the preferential flow of water through the higher permeability zones, ensuring more of the reservoir is contacted by the injected fluid.
  • Reduce Mobility Ratio: By increasing the viscosity of the displacing fluid, PAM helps to achieve a more favorable mobility ratio between the injected water and the reservoir oil, leading to higher oil recovery factors.
  • Control Water Permeability: Certain types of PAM can also be used for water plugging and profile control, redirecting injected water to less permeable zones and thereby improving oil sweep in the target areas.

The selection of the appropriate type of PAM (often hydrolyzed polyacrylamide or HPAM) for EOR depends on reservoir characteristics such as temperature, salinity, and rock permeability.

PAM as a Friction Reducer

In drilling operations, high friction occurs between the drilling fluid and the drill string, as well as between the fluid and the wellbore walls. This friction increases energy consumption and can damage drilling equipment. PAM, particularly when used in slickwater fracturing fluids, acts as a highly effective friction reducer. Even at very low concentrations, PAM molecules align themselves in the turbulent flow, dampening eddies and reducing the overall drag. This results in:

  • Reduced Pumping Pressure: Lower friction means less pressure is required to pump fluids, saving energy and reducing wear on pumps.
  • Increased Pumping Efficiency: Higher flow rates can be achieved with the same pumping power.
  • Minimized Equipment Wear: Reduced friction leads to less stress on drilling equipment.

The efficacy of PAM as a friction reducer is well-documented in hydraulic fracturing operations, where it allows for the pumping of large volumes of fluid with minimal pressure loss, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the fracturing process.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is a trusted supplier of high-quality Polyacrylamide products tailored for the demanding requirements of the oil and gas industry. We provide a range of PAM grades suitable for EOR applications and friction reduction in drilling fluids. Our technical team is available to assist clients in selecting the optimal PAM solution for their specific operational needs, contributing to more efficient and productive oil and gas extraction.

For inquiries or to learn more about our Polyacrylamide products for the oil and gas sector, please contact NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD.