has developed a unique polymer-based technology that converts thick low mobility bitumen and heavy oil to free flowing low viscosity dispersions. Proflux Technology is proven to reduce the viscosity of heavy oils and bitumens with API 8 to 12 and viscosity of up to 250,000 cP to less than 230 cP. Proflux Technology allows viscous crude oils to be produced and transported easily, following which the dispersions can be separated into their original components. The original oil properties are re-established and Proflux Technology is available for reuse. This simple process allows the technology to be used in a variety of high value applications in, wells (Wellflux), surface flow lines (Transflux) and producing reservoirs (Terraflux).
for Wells
Wellflux is proven to increase net oil production in heavy oil wells by up to 400%. Wellflux creates a low viscosity dispersion in the well completion. The reduction in pump torque and frictional losses reduce bottom hole flowing pressure, increasing drawdown on the reservoir and thereby increasing production from both existing and previously low or non productive zones. In most cases, the increased production can be considered to be a combination of both accelerated and incremental oil production. The application of Wellflux also significantly reduces fixed and variable well operating costs.
for Flowlines and Pipelines
Transflux is proven to reduce the viscosity of heavy oils in both pipeline and flowline applications. The low viscosity dispersions formed in the process can be transported through flowlines and pipelines as if they were conventional low viscosity oils, eliminating the need for diluents. Transflux can also be used for piping heavy oil from wellhead to gathering centre eliminating the need for in-field trucking.
for Reservoirs
The Terraflux application of Proflux Technology for the enhanced recovery (EOR) of heavy oil and bitumen reservoirs is currently under development. However extensive laboratory work and field simulation studies have shown the potential value of using Terraflux in both cold and thermal EOR applications including CSS and SAGD. Terraflux will be field tested in 2009.
All Proflux Technology is environmentally friendly, non toxic, biodegradable and approved for use in Canada and other oil producing regions.
