The Friction Theory for Viscosity Modeling: Extension to Crude Oil Systems

In this work the one-parameter friction theory (f-theory) general models have been extended to the viscosity prediction and modeling of characterized oils. It is demonstrated that these simple models, which take advantage of the repulsive and attractive pressure terms of cubic equations of state such as the SRK, PR and PRSV, can provide accurate viscosity prediction and modeling of characterized oils.

In the case of light reservoir oils, whose properties are close to those of normal alkanes, the one-parameter f-theory general models can predict the viscosity of these fluids with good accuracy. Yet, in the case when experimental information is available a more accurate modeling can be obtained by means of a simple tuning procedure.

A tuned f-theory general model can deliver highly accurate viscosity modeling above the saturation pressure and good prediction of the liquid-phase viscosity at pressures below the saturation pressure. In addition, a tuned f-theory general model delivers accurate modeling of different kinds of light and heavy oils.

Thus, the simplicity and stability of the f-theory general models make them a powerful tool for applications such as reservoir simulations, between others. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.