Influence of External Wellhead Conditions on Experimental Determined Performance Curves of Steam-Water Geothermal Wells

Abstract

Influence of external wellhead conditions on performance curves of steam-water wells is examined. It is established that dependence of external wellhead pressure on flow rate influences the obtained performance curves. The facts of instable operation of wells during exploitation are explained in case when wellhead pressure corresponds to stable operation during testing. Stabilizing effect of throttling by valve during usual testing is noted, which is absent during exploitation. In a result, a well can operate stably at higher wellhead pressure and lower flow rate during the usual testing. Recommendations for receiving of adequate information about the prospects of wells, based on results of usual testing, are presented. Technical solutions to ensure the stability of mode operation of steam-water wells are proposed.