Numerical simulation of heavy oil recovery by the steam-assisted gravity drainage process

A two-dimensional, three phases (bitumen, water and steam) and two components (water & bitumen) black oil numerical model for the SAGD process was developed and tested, using the CMG "STARS" thermal simulator. Both the "Spreading Steam Chamber" and the "Rising Steam Chamber" processes were history matched with Chung's physical model. The numerical results agree reasonably well with the measured data for cumulative oil production recovery percentage and temperature profiles in the model at different times. The model can be employed as a tool to aid in sensitivity studies and in the interpretation of the laboratory results.