Three dimensional visualization of solvent chamber growth during the VAPEX processes: An experimental approach using laser

A dome-shaped solvent chamber with viscous fingering on its top was observed. The injection pressure influenced the size of the chamber especially in the horizontal direction, which was not possible to identify through standard 2-D tests. Also, the solvent spread along the ceiling of the model and then displaced the oil down. The boundary of the solvent and oil was tilted and even curved at different injection rates. Finally, variable injection rate cases were compared with constant rate trials and an optimum operation plan was proposed through the analysis of the production rate, produced oil quality, and 3-D images of the chamber growth.