The oil and gas industry is constantly seeking innovative solutions to maximize resource extraction and optimize operational efficiency. Polyacrylamide (PAM), particularly Anionic Polyacrylamide (APAM), has emerged as a critical chemical additive in oilfield operations, primarily for Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) and friction reduction in hydraulic fracturing. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. provides high-performance PAM solutions vital for these advanced applications.

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR)

Conventional oil extraction methods typically recover only a fraction of the oil in a reservoir. Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques are employed to recover additional oil that remains trapped in the porous rock formations. Polymer flooding, a common EOR method, utilizes polymers like APAM to increase the viscosity of injected water. This works in two primary ways:

  • Improved Sweep Efficiency: By increasing the viscosity of the injection fluid, APAM helps to push the oil more effectively through the reservoir, preventing the water from bypassing oil-rich zones. This leads to a more uniform sweep of the reservoir.
  • Mobility Control: APAM reduces the mobility difference between the injected water and the oil. This prevents viscous fingering, where lower-viscosity water channels through the oil, leaving significant amounts of oil behind. By controlling mobility, APAM ensures that more oil is mobilized and recovered.

The effectiveness of APAM in EOR is highly dependent on its molecular weight and stability under reservoir conditions (temperature, salinity, shear stress). High molecular weight APAM is generally preferred for its superior thickening capabilities.

Friction Reduction in Hydraulic Fracturing

Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a technique used to extract oil and natural gas from low-permeability reservoirs. It involves injecting a fluid under high pressure into a wellbore to create fractures in the rock. This process requires pumping large volumes of fluid, and the friction generated between the fluid and the wellbore walls can significantly increase pumping pressures and energy consumption. Polyacrylamide derivatives are widely used as friction reducers in these fluids.

APAM, when added to fracturing fluids, can dramatically reduce friction losses. The long polymer chains align with the flow, smoothing the turbulent eddies near the wellbore wall and reducing the energy required for pumping. This allows for higher pumping rates, deeper penetration into the reservoir, and reduced operational costs.

Why Choose Our Polyacrylamide for Oilfield Applications?

Oilfield applications often involve harsh conditions, including high temperatures, high salinity, and significant shear forces. As a leading supplier, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. provides specialized Polyacrylamide products that meet these stringent requirements:

  • High Molecular Weight: Our APAM grades offer high molecular weights essential for effective viscosity modification in EOR and robust friction reduction in fracturing.
  • Stability: We offer PAM products with enhanced thermal and shear stability, ensuring performance under demanding reservoir conditions.
  • Salt Tolerance: Our specialized formulations are designed to maintain viscosity and performance even in high-salinity environments, common in many oilfields.
  • Technical Expertise: We understand the complexities of oilfield chemistry and can provide tailored solutions and technical support to optimize your EOR and fracturing operations. When you need to buy PAM for oilfield use, rely on our expertise.

Conclusion

Polyacrylamide is a critical component in modern oil and gas extraction techniques. Its role in enhancing oil recovery through polymer flooding and in reducing pumping energy consumption during hydraulic fracturing highlights its importance. For oilfield operators seeking reliable and high-performance PAM solutions, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is your trusted partner. Contact us today to learn more about our specialized Polyacrylamide products and how they can benefit your operations. Request a quote or sample to experience the difference.