Burlington Resources Announces Successful Test Results from Wildcat Discovery Well in Algeria

Strategic Insights -

Burlington Resources Inc., through its wholly-owned subsidiary, LL&E Algeria Ltd., has made a significant oil discovery in the Berkine Basin of Algeria. The MLNW-1 well, located on the Menzel Lejmat Block 405, has successfully tested oil in the Strunian F1 zone of a Devonian age reservoir. The well flowed at 8,459 barrels of 42.4 degree API gravity oil and 12.6 million cubic feet of natural gas per day. This discovery further confirms the presence of high-quality crude oil in Devonian age sandstones in the central portion of the block. The well's successful test results will be integrated into ongoing plans to appraise the discoveries made to date.

Key Takeaways:

  • The MLNW-1 well discovered oil in the Strunian F1 zone of a Devonian age reservoir, with a flow rate of 8,459 barrels of 42.4 degree API gravity oil and 12.6 million cubic feet of natural gas per day.
  • The well is the fourth location on Block 405 where stable, high-quality crude oil has been found in Devonian age sandstones.
  • Burlington Resources, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, LL&E Algeria Ltd., operates the MLNW-1 well, and Talisman Energy Inc. holds the remaining 35 percent working interest.
  • Sonatrach has an option to participate in the development and production of commercial discoveries.
  • The successful test results will be integrated into ongoing plans to appraise the discoveries made to date.
  • Bobby S. Shackouls, BR's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented on the significance of the discovery.

Statistics:

  • 20.5 meters (67 feet) of the Strunian F1 zone was perforated and tested.
  • 8,459 barrels per day of 42.4 degree API gravity oil was produced.
  • 12.6 million cubic feet per day of natural gas was produced.
  • 728 psi flowing wellhead pressure was recorded.
  • The well is located approximately 6 kilometers (3.8 miles) southwest of the MLN-5 well, 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) southwest of the MLN-4 well, and 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) northeast of the MLW-1 well.
  • The MLNW-1 well was a wildcat discovery well.

Sources:

  • Burlington Resources Inc. Press Release, Aug. 9, 1999.