Dynamic Field Management Using Web-Based Remote Reservoir Modelling Technology
Authors: Barden D. 
Published: March 2010

Recent advances in Web-based communication and reservoir simulation technology have made it possible to remotely construct and update well/reservoir models and use them to help make important development decisions on an ongoing basis. This new, "dynamic" approach ensures that the models are always in sync with actual field development because they are constantly refreshed with observed rate and pressure data from the field. In this manner, much of the risk is removed from evaluating well completions, selecting locations for offset and infill wells, predicting flow potential and reservoir drainage patterns, identifying the most appropriate and effective completion methods, well spacing patterns, and so on. This paper explains how the process works, offers examples of where this has already been implemented, and describes the results that were obtained.

By allowing virtually any operator, regardless of size or location, to model every new development well (prior to drilling) and to adjust his field development plan in an ongoing manner to account for actual reservoir and well behaviour, this new methodology will have a significant impact on the future of field management practices.

Introduction

In order to fully exploit a field in an efficient, cost-effective manner, an operator must have a reasonable understanding of the reservoir and how it will respond to the different drilling plans that can be used to drain it. Because reservoir and well behaviour often varies significantly over time due to the increasing depletion, most field development plans can be expected to require periodic modification to obtain an optimum long-term result. Perhaps the best way to predict and respond to these real changes over time is through the use of computerized simulation models that are continually updated with current, observed data to ensure that they always reflect the observed conditions in the field. By monitoring well and reservoir behaviour in this manner throughout the entire development cycle, an operator can dramatically improve his ability to maximize drainage at the lowest cost in the shortest amount of time.

Until recently, the onerous amount of data, time, expense, training, and hands-on experience required by conventional reservoir simulators has made those tools prohibitive to use on a regular basis by the vast majority of the industry, so only a small percentage of development wells are ever modelled before they are drilled and many other day-to-day problems are never even looked at. Consequently, most development decisions are made without any predictive modelling whatsoever. Fortunately, new advances in simulation technology have substantially simplified and accelerated the process so it is now viable to construct and maintain continuously updated models that can be used to monitor and direct field development in a uniquely "dynamic" way. This paper explains how such a program can be implemented and why it can be of significant value to any operator who is engaged in developmental drilling or proactive field management activities.