Dry Gas Reservoir
A dry gas reservoir is a type of natural gas reservoir where the predominant hydrocarbon present is methane (\(CH_4\)) with very little or no condensate (liquid hydrocarbons) or water. This type of reservoir is distinct from a "wet gas" reservoir, which contains significant quantities of liquid hydrocarbons like condensates or natural gas liquids (NGLs) along with methane.
key characteristics
- High Methane Content - The gas in these reservoirs is primarily methane, often over 95% or more, with minimal heavier hydrocarbons like ethane (\(C_2H_6\)), propane (\(C_3H_8\)), or butane (\(C_4H_{10}\)).
- Low Liquid Content - Since it contains little to no condensate, there’s minimal separation of liquids required when the gas is brought to the surface.
- Temperature and Pressure - The temperature and pressure conditions in a dry gas reservoir are such that the hydrocarbons remain in a gaseous state, even when extracted.
- Rservoir Completely Enclosed - A volumetric dry gas reservoir is completely enclosed by low-permeability or completely impermeable barriers and does not receive pressure support from external sources, such as an encroaching aquifer.
- Production and Use - The gas from dry reservoirs is primarily used for direct energy production, heating, or as a feedstock for chemical processes.Re
Dry gas reservoirs are often easier to manage and process compared to wet gas reservoirs, as they typically require less complex treatment and separation processes.
