TULSA, OK - Oil production in the United States is
declining at an alarming rate. The remaining resources have high exploration
and production costs and pose greater technical challenges. Some domestic
oil wells are prematurely abandoned due to lacking technologies and economic
Sonic stimulation - the use of sound waves sent out through reservoir
rock to free trapped oil droplets ? is an emerging technology that has
been used in the last decade to enhance oil field production in the United
States and overseas.
While results have been positive in some cases, most of these applications
did not contain sufficient scientific rigor to form a solid theoretical
basis. Stimulation experts have concluded that this lack of basic understanding
has led to widely varied tools and mechanisms with inconsistent yet promising
To help establish a better scientific base of knowledge, the Department
has selected Michigan Technological University (MTU) to conduct a project
to calibrate and test sonic stimulation technologies.
This project is designed to provide the linkage between field and theory,
and between laboratory experiments and field demonstrations.
In an effort to better understand existing sonic tools, researchers will
first explore the penetration factors associated with multiple frequencies
at and below the surface. An ideal test facility in the northern Michigan
reef trend, operated by the University, will serve as the primary site
for all field work.
The manufacturers of sonic stimulation tools are partnering with the
University to conclusively establish performance factors. After successful
testing and establishing calibration standards, the University will broaden
the scope of the project to include other stakeholders interested in testing
their sonic tools or processes in a well-defined, controlled environment.
This approach will lead to a unified set of accepted industry standards
by which sonic stimulation technology can be applied. These standards
are the basis required for improving tool design and optimizing field
operations, and will allow theoretical and laboratory work and advances
to move ahead with confidence.
This technology exemplifies the
type of scientific breakthroughs and standards that are needed to increase
the economic viability of our domestic oil resources.