Stimulation and Damage Removal of Calcium Carbonate Scaling in Geothermal Wells: a Case Study)

Abstract

As geothermal activity in the Western United States continues, most problems associated with well production have centered around mechanics, drilling, and cementing. However, decreases in production in California Energy.s Geothermal Area have required damage removal and/or actual stimulation as a result of calcium carbonate scaling. This paper addresses three categories of problem geothermal wells: wells with calcium carbonate scale in the wellbore wells that require stimulation of the producing zone or that have calcium carbonate scale in the formation wells where treatment may eliminate non-condensable gas (NCG) surges This paper contains background characteristics, treatment design information, and production histories for each of the three well types. It also examines the success and cost-effectiveness of acid treatments for each well type.