Composite Reservoir Pressure-Transient Analysis for Pre-Breakthrough Water
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring the movement of a fluid interface in composite reservoirs, particularly between an uninvaded oil zone and a water-invaded transition zone, lack the capability to predict water encroachment before it reaches the wellbore, leading to inefficient production operations and potential breakthroughs.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a computing system that generates and updates models based on data from composite reservoirs, incorporating the Laplace Transform Finite-Difference numerical technique and fractional flow models to predict fluid interface movement and water encroachment, allowing for proactive remedial actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional monitoring methods are used to track fluid interface movement, then the system can detect water encroachment, but it cannot predict water encroachment before it reaches the wellbore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using pressure transient analysis to detect subtle changes in pressure behavior that indicate water encroachment is approaching, but has not yet reached the wellbore. This allows operators to take preventive actions before water breakthrough occurs, extending the detection window and enabling proactive management of water encroachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pressure transient behavior as an intermediary indicator to infer the position and movement of the fluid interface. Instead of directly measuring fluid interface position, the system monitors pressure changes in the wellbore that are caused by approaching water, using these pressure signals as a mediator to predict water encroachment before direct contact occurs.
2Productivity
If production continues without intervention, then productivity is maintained, but water breakthrough occurs leading to inefficient production operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring pressure transient behavior and using this information to determine when water encroachment is approaching. This feedback loop enables operators to adjust production operations in response to detected changes, maintaining productivity while preventing the inefficiencies associated with water breakthrough by triggering remedial actions at the appropriate time.
3Reliability
If remedial actions are taken early to delay water breakthrough, then production efficiency is maintained, but production operations are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing remedial measures only when pressure transient analysis indicates water encroachment is approaching, but before actual water breakthrough occurs. This timing strategy allows for preventive maintenance of production efficiency while minimizing the duration and impact of production disruptions, as the remedial actions are taken only when necessary based on detected conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for monitoring movement of a fluid interface in a composite reservoir includes receiving data related to a composite reservoir. The composite reservoir includes an uninvaded oil zone, a water-invaded transition zone, and an aquifer. A model is generated using the data. The model is updated in response to movement of a fluid interface between the water-invaded transition zone and the uninvaded oil zone in the composite reservoir is identified. The model is also updated in response to movement of water from the aquifer toward the wellbore is also identified, before the fluid interface reaches a wellbore formed in the composite reservoir. A remedial action is determined to take in the wellbore in response to the movement of the fluid interface, the movement of the water, or both.