Does anyone have information relating to downhole heating systems/techniques which provide localised heat (at the BHA) into the formation to enable viscosity reduction in heavy API crude environments around the well bore.
Many companies employ stem injection to heat the heavier crude in tar sand oil production (Alberta and California). G. Gordon Stewart, P.Eng.
Gas & Oil Process Engineering Consultant
I'm new here, but have just come across your post regarding downhole heating systems. You may have already found a solution but i am aware of a variety of techniques used, for example two part chemical injection systems creating an exothermic reaction, downhole heating cables, steam/hot oil injection and hot water wash, injected into the annulus.
samlukeben
There are cables designed for just such an application. They are strapped to the side of the tubing to ensure fluid mobility the length of the tubing.
These can be run with an ESP or without, Centrilift manufactures cables for this type of application.
Steam injection (cyclic or continous), in-situ combostion (wet or dry), hot oil injection. In case reservoir characteristics allow that, may be an SAGD.
Examples of thermal process you can find in Canada, Venezuela, Romania, Rusia, China.