Evaluation of empirically derived PVT properties for Gulf of Mexico crude oils

This paper evaluates several empirical PVT correlations for application in the Gulf of Mexico. Ideally, fluid properties are determined experimentally in the laboratory; however, these data are not always available. Correlations are consequently used to determine values for bubblepoint pressure, solution GOR, FVF, and viscosity. These values are necessary to compute oil reserves or for calculations involving flow through pipes or porous media. A review of the correlations is provided, along with the results of calculations made on 31 individual crude oil samples.