Phase Behavior and ThermodynamicsPVT Properties
McCain Water Formation Volume Factor Formula
McCain Water Formation Volume Factor calculates water formation volume factor for pvt properties workflows in phase behavior and thermodynamics.
How engineers use this formula
Use this formula when the listed inputs (T, p) are known and the assumptions behind the cited pvt properties relationship match the engineering case being checked.
Assumptions
- Input values are representative for the well, reservoir, fluid, or equipment case being evaluated.
- The declared units match the field-unit constants used in the formula.
- The cited formula applies to the selected petroleum engineering workflow.
Limitations
- The calculation does not replace a full engineering model or operating procedure.
- Accuracy depends on the source correlation, assumptions, input quality, and unit consistency.
Common mistakes
- Mixing unit systems without converting the inputs.
- Using default example values as field recommendations.
- Applying the formula outside the source assumptions.
Default example
Using the default inputs, B_w equals 1.02727 bbl/STB.
Tdeg F
180
ppsi
3000
Inputs
T
deg FTemperature
p
psiPressure
Outputs
B_w
bbl/STB
Water Formation Volume Factor
dV_wT_mccain
dimensionless
McCain Water Thermal Volume Correction
dV_wP_mccain
dimensionless
McCain Water Pressure Volume Correction
Source and review
reviewedCraft, B.C., Hawkins, M. and Terry, R.E. 1991. Applied Petroleum Reservoir Engineering, 2nd Edition, Page 45.
Source