Finding a new oil well is an exciting experience, but it’s about more than just locating oil and gas. When it comes to well drilling, the condition of the ground that surrounds the oil can play a major role in whether oil and gas well completion is feasible. While there are many factors that dictate the success of a given well, some of the most important components of effective oil and gas drilling is the porosity and permeability of the surrounding stone.

Porosity

The first important factor is whether the porosity of the stone is appropriate for drilling a well. Porosity refers to the tiny spaces within the rocks that house the oil and gas that must be extracted. To determine the porosity of the rock, a mathematical computation is used to conclude which percentage of the rock is taken up by the oil and gas versus the solid stone. When determining whether an area is suitable for well drilling, it’s important to have a minimum result of eight percent porosity. While some oil and gas companies may attempt to drill with lower numbers, these wells are often unproductive and a waste of time and money.

The exact porosity numbers are important, but this isn’t the only related factor to be considered. The distance between the pores in the rock can also play a major role in the success of a well. If the pores are located too far apart, the gas won’t be able to flow well, resulting in poor results.

Permeability

In addition to the porosity of the stone, gas well completion relies heavily on the permeability of the stone that surrounds the oil and gas reservoir. This term refers to the ability of liquid to move through a rock, which affects how well the oil and gas is extracted from the well. When rock is found to have low permeability, it requires a large amount of pressure to push the oil and gas from the well. While this isn’t the ideal condition for oil and gas drilling, it may be possible if the pressure is high enough. However, to ensure a good well, high permeability is desired, which means the oil and gas will flow easily.

Oil and gas production requires the presence of oil and gas, but it also needs the right conditions to extract it. Oil and gas well completion relies heavily on the right porosity and permeability to ensure the oil and gas can be extracted.

If you’re interested in investing in oil and gas wells, contact us. We understand the industry and can help guide you in choosing the investments with the highest potential.