An Approximate Theory of Oil/Water Coning

Abstract

ABSTRACT The problem of water coning into a partially-penetrating oil well is considered. An analytical theory is developed which approximately describes the flow of oil into the well in the presence of a cone of water beneath the well. In particular, a procedure is given for computing the critical oil production rate. Results for critical rate are presented for a range of formation thicknesses, penetration ratios, drainage and well radii and horizontal to vertical permeability ratio. Comparisons are made with other data available in the literature.