bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Water Saturation in a Low-Resistivity Pay Carbonate Reservoir Onshore Abu Dhabi: An Integrated Approach
Authors: Uchida Miho , Salahuddin Andi Ahmad , Ashqar Ayham , Awolayo Adedapo Noah , Olayiwola Saheed Olawale , Eissa Al Hammadi Khaled
Published: November 2015

Characterization and fluid quantification of Carbonate reservoirs looks more challenging than those of sandstone reservoirs. The determination of accurate hydrocarbon saturation is more tasking due to their complex and heterogeneous pore structures, and mineralogy. Traditionally, resistivity logs are used to identify pay intervals due to the resistivity contrast between oil and water. However, when pay intervals exhibit low resistivity, such logs exhibit low confidence in the precise determination of the hydrocarbon saturation. Few Middle-Eastern reservoirs are categorized as low resistivity pay, where resistivity based log analysis results in high water saturation. However, downhole fluid analysis identifies mobile oil, and the formation flows dry or nearly dry oil during production tests. This makes resistivity based saturation computation questionable.

Because of the complexity of low resistivity pay (LRP), its cause should be determined prior to applying a solution. Several reasons were identified to be responsible for this phenomenon- among which are the presence of micro-porosity, fractures, paramagnetic minerals, and deep conductive borehole mud invasion. Integration of Thin section, Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) data from the studied formation indicated the presence of micropores network.

This paper discusses the observed variations in quantifying water saturation in LRP interval and the related discrepancies between the resistivity and non-resistivity based techniques. The non-resistivity based methods, used in the course of this study, are coined from sigma log measurement and core data, either capillary pressure-based (MICP, Centrifuge, and Porous plate), or direct from Dean-Stark measurements. The interpretation process considered water saturation derived from resistivity measurement and core data combined with production test information.

The combination of several water saturation determination approaches captured the uncertainty and improved our understanding of the reservoir properties. This enhanced our capability to develop a robust and reliable saturation model. The integration of data from these various sources added confidence to the estimation of water saturation in the studied field and thus, improved reserves estimation and reservoir simulation for accurate history matching, production forecasting and optimized field development plan.
New Era for Quality Emiratization of Front-Line Workforce Utilizing Process Training Pilot Plants
Authors: Al-Jarwan Ali , Omar Samir
Published: November 2015

Objectives/Scope

ADMA-OPCO as a part of Corporate Social Responsibility initiated this project to support the country's vision for Emiratization with competent workforce. This project develops competent Fresh Operators & Technicians (O&T's) to accelerate the quality emiratization process and to meet the major business challenges ahead.

Methods, Procedures, Process

ADMA-OPCO constructed 4 Process Training Pilot Plants (PTPP's) at ADNOC Technical Institute (ATI) to provide safe environment allowing O&T's to carry out their routine activities on fully functional plants safely.

These plants cover the following: Wellhead plant including multi-phase flow meter for well testing and pig launcherOil and Gas separation, desalting and crude stabilization plantGas sweetening unitGas Glycol Dehydration Unit

The above plants are equipped with control room / Distributing Control System (DCS) operations with defined specific On-Job-Training (OJT) tasks for all trades viz Mechanical, Control, Electrical and Operators.

Results, Observations, Conclusions

ADMA-OPCO introduces this unique project as An additional opportunity and new methodology to develop ADNOC / OPCO'S O&T's with high competency in optimized development durationAn evidence of partnership empowerment between ADMA-OPCO as end user and ATI as vocational training providersTo meet the business demands like high skillset and the manpower required to work with the new projects facilities in all OPCO'sThis Innovative solution will improve the skills of the front-line workforce through the enhanced development syllabus of the vocational education and focusing on the hands-on-skills of the graduates prior joining their employers

Following the successful commissioning in February 2015; ADMA-OPCO during the 1st year of utilization has achieved the following: Developed 70 competent technician's in an optimized durationCarried out 40 female engineers plant induction without sending them to the offshore platforms14 electrical technicians completed two OJTs advanced troubleshooting course.Completed the summer internship of UAE's universities students

Novel/Additive Information

The O&T's are benefited to carry out the routine activities similar to the actual plants safely and effectively.

It is the 1st time across Middle East and perhaps the world too: Build PTPPs for gas sweetening and glycol dehydration operations.Built such plants at vocational training institute

Configurations of the plants are much higher than similar plants installed across the world including; USA, Russia, Syria, Algeria & Nigeria.
Management of Employee Exposures to Benzene
Authors: Patil Ajit A. , Maududy Muhammad
Published: November 2015

Benzene is a confirmed human carcinogen and employee exposure is a global problem. Since benzene is carcinogenic, there is no safe limit for exposure and all practical means must be tried to limit the employee exposures to lowest possible level. This paper describes the quantitative techniques used and engineering solution based approach adopted to tackle a specific benzene exposure scenario.

Complaints of VOC (containing Benzene) smell were repeatedly reported from a specific work area near the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) through company's online system designed for reporting and tracking of any unsafe conditions/act or incident.

Initial area surveys and investigations identified presence of slop oil in ETP plant's equalization tank as the source of nuisance.

Spot monitoring was conducted to quantify area benzene levels, using a portable monitor. Area TWA and personal monitoring was also performed to assess employee exposures. Area TWA and Personal monitoring involved active sampling using portable pumps and solid adsorbent tubes followed by Gas Chromatographic (GC) analysis. Slop oil analysis was done for identifying VOC constituents and their relative proportions.

Monitoring results indicated presence of benzene near a specific building area depending upon the wind direction. It also confirmed that overall employee benzene exposure levels were much lower than the Occupational Exposure Limit.

To improve the conditions for building inmates, a HVAC management protocol was developed as an immediate protective measure, defining specific actions based on spot monitoring results and wind direction.

Affected building required permanent protection through additional engineering controls. A project is developed to modify and upgrade existing HVAC system of the building incorporating VOC filtration system with detectors for automatic HVAC controls. Slop oil analysis data on VOC constituents was used to calculate expected VOC load for this design and for VOC filter material selection.
Premature failure of off Gas line due to top of the line Corrosion(TLC)
Authors: Shagar Nabil
Published: November 2015

Top of Line Corrosion (TLC) was attributed to water condensation in wet acid gas lines. Operating below the dew point allows water condensation followed by acidic corrosion after short run in operations. The effect of gas composition, operating regimes, temperature, pressure, pH and thermal insulation have been studied and concluded. Hence, the paper is an illustration of an actual TLC in wet gas line indicating how line corrosion was detected, metallurgical investigation, repair procedure and the recommendations to avoid recurrence of such corrosion in future.
Centrifugal Compressor Design for Safe Operation in Acid Gas Environment
Authors: Cappuccini Filippo , Fontana Michele , Giannozzi Massimo , Baldassarre Leonardo , Romanelli Marco , Toci Emiliano
Published: November 2015

Equipment dealing with extremely sour or acid gas presents significant challenges from safety and reliability standpoint. Process gas containment under any possible operation scenario has to be granted in order to prevent serious hazard to people and environment. Extremely aggressive gas associated with corrosion and stress corrosion cracking phenomenon requires special focus on reliability and robustness of design to assure machinery integrity and gas containment over the entire life of the equipment.

Specific design features of acid gas compressors are discussed in the present work, with reference to existing projects and solutions implemented in OEM installed fleet:

– Material selection of rotor and stator components based on operating conditions, gas composition (including contaminants such as chlorides and mercury) and site environment. Base materials and protective coatings for severe sour and acid gas applications are presented, with reference to recent applications. – Design of rotating components for extended and reliable operation, preventing mechanical failure modes and the associated risk of process gas leak: peak stress limitation, removal of key fitting, shrinkage optimization. – Design of interfaces between compressor casing and head flanges, as critical point for compressor sealing: gasket selection and system design to prevent gas leakage to ambient even in case of failure. Specific focus is put on the interface layout and surface coating. – Design of dry gas seals and seal gas system: specific solutions in terms of layout, design characteristics and material selection, adopted to increase safety and reliability of DGS dealing with acid seal gas. Backup features and control actions used to mitigate possible failure scenarios are presented as well.
Selection of Best in Class Corrosion Inhibitors for the ADMA-OPCO Zakum Oil System Through Extensive Laboratory Evaluation
Authors: McNaughtan D. , Mothershaw R. , Binthabet H. A. , Al Sayed T. , Al Marzooqi M. , Eid A. F. , Hussein K. , Abou Chaker A.
Published: November 2015

ADMA-OPCO requested that an independent third party laboratory evaluation be conducted on a number of corrosion inhibitors to select the best in class for the protection of the Zakum Oil system, Umm Shaif Oil system, and Gas & Condensate system. The performance tests on the inhibitors were carried out in a 4 Phase approach, ranging from acceptance testing covering a range of physical and thermal stability scenarios through to high pressure and high temperature autoclave tests to determine inhibition performance under both CO2 and H2S environments. This approach was critical due to the ageing of facilities which required further assurance in terms of corrosion inhibition.

Throughout the laboratory Phases key performance milestones were established and ranked to allow successful candidate chemicals to move to the next Phase of the testing. From an original seven potential candidate chemicals only four proceeded to the completion of the project. This paper aims to describe the methods employed and criteria established for screening corrosion inhibitors to ensure only the best in class are utilised for future field applications. The discussion will focus not only on the specific methods and results, but also the reasoning behind the methods employed and how these aided in ensuring the most technically effective corrosion inhibitors were identified for the application requirements.
The Normalisation of Deviance in the Oil and Gas Industry: The Role of Rig Leadership in Success and Failure
Authors: Hase Stewart , Phin Simon
Published: November 2015

The normalization of deviance is a major organizational cultural issue that is modeled and enabled by poor leadership and filters down through the organization with disastrous consequences for safety and operations. Culture has been shown to create the circumstances that result in safety problems ranging from near misses to major catastrophe due to failures in operations integrity, specifically process safety. The organizational culture is also responsible for the level of productivity, of effectiveness and efficiency. The major factor in operations integrity and in productivity is employee engagement. In turn, a transformational leadership style has been shown to be the most effective approach in developing an engaged workforce and a positive work culture, including in oil and gas installations. This paper discusses these issues and, in particular, the role of leaders in developing a safe and productive work environment in drilling operations. Finally, it provides a solution to the question of how to develop effective leaders that involves: talent recognition; effective recruitment; effective performance management; and training and coaching interventions across all three of these areas.
A New Approach to NGL Recovery From Off-Gases
Authors: Currence Kevin L. , Rapavi David M. , Clifford Michael J.
Published: November 2015

Off-gas from refining and petrochemical facilities often contains significant quantities of valuable natural gas liquids (NGL) and olefins. The composition and pressure of these off-gas streams is commonly much different than conventional natural gases and presents unique challenges.

While many gas processing technologies exist, most were developed for high-pressure natural gas applications. High hydrogen content often found in off-gases can reduce the effectiveness of these traditional processes. Further, certain trace components can require other considerations that are not common in natural gas processing facilities. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) that are often contained in off-gas streams can solidify and accumulate within the cryogenic plant. NOx, especially nitrogen trioxide (N2O3), are considered hazardous; limiting the minimum operating temperature of the plant can reduce the risk of accumulation. For conventional technologies, this temperature limitation can significantly reduce the recovery of valuable NGL.

Single mixed refrigerant (SMR) processes have been used for liquefied natural gas (LNG) liquefaction in numerous facilities dating back to the 1970s. A new process configuration was recently developed for an off-gas processing plant that incorporates an SMR system. The patent-pending process provides several advantages for NGL recovery from refinery or petrochemical off-gas compared to conventional processes, including the flexibility to accommodate a wide range of feed gas compositions and fluctuations in feed rate that are common in off-gas applications.

In addition to a detailed description of the process configuration, this paper presents the features of the SMR-based process and compares its performance to conventional technologies for off-gas processing. A case study is provided that illustrates the advantages of SMR over conventional processes.
Phenols Removal From Refinery Wastewater By Advanced Oxidation Process (AOPs): From Laboratory Scale To Industrial One
Authors: Saracino I. , Tina W. , Sporchia G. , Andreozzi R. , Liati A. , De Maria S.
Published: November 2015

Adavanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) represent a group of promising technologies for the degradation of Refractory Chemical Pollutants as, for example, Chlorophenols (CPs) compounds of a special interest because of their high toxicity and low biodegradability. The aim of this paper is the application of AOPs treatments on a real case study consisting in the design of an Industrial-scale refinery effluent treatment & recovery plant. The water portion generated which was not recycled, had to be discharged into the sea with very strict limits (i.e. phenol concentration < 1 ppb).

For this purpose, two different AOPs treatments were investigated on a lab scale: the combination of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with a liquid catalyst and the adoption of H2O2 in combination with UV light. In particular, the degradation kinetics of both the treatments investigated was evaluated at different concentrations of both liquid catalyst and hydrogen peroxide.

The results showed that the system resulting from the combination of H2O2 with a liquid catalyst into a specific H2O2/catalyst range allowed a higher phenol degradation kinetics than the treatment based on hydrogen peroxides coupled with UV light. Once the AOP treatment was optimized on a laboratory scale, the design for its adoption on an industrial scale was conducted and the system was integrated as a tertiary treatment in a wastewater system including Coalescent Plate Interceptors (CPI) and Flotation as Deoiling treatment and a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Oxidation system as a biological treatment.
The Innovative Application of Formation Sampling and Pressure Testing While Drilling a Heterogeneous, Jurassic Carbonate Reservoir with Mixed Water Salinity, for the first time, Offshore Abu Dhabi
Authors: Serry A. M. , Kaouche S. , AbouJmeih H. , Smith S. , Elarouci F. , Khairy H.
Published: November 2015

The objective of this paper is focused on presenting and highlighting the results of the first successful reservoir fluid characterization and sampling attempt in offshore Abu Dhabi and the added values to the assets operating in the highly heterogeneous Jurassic carbonate reservoirs with unknown formation water salinity values.

The original formation water has a unique high salinity that got mixed overtime with the fresher injection water, so that the open hole log interpretation using Archie water saturation model becomes highly uncertain. Exaggerated oil saturations could be computed within the water zones around the oil-water contact. In addition to measuring the fluid mobility, the formation testers are being run to confirm the fluid type present in the reservoir by using pressure gradient plot or by fluid identification and sampling stations. The increasing cost and rig time optimization demands inspired the team to utilize the emerging formation sampling and testing while drilling at the first time in offshore Abu Dhabi to replace the conventional wireline/ drill pipe conveyed formation testers. This application proved to be an added value to gather the required reservoir data in a mature challenging field reducing the operational time, cost and associated risks.

A water injection well is drilled across a highly heterogeneous, Jurassic carbonate reservoir offshore Abu Dhabi. A deviated pilot hole was drilled for formation evaluation and reservoir fluid assessment, and the plan was to continue with a horizontal drain into one of the sub-reservoirs (swept area) if confirmed water bearing. The logging while drilling formation sampling and pressure testing tool was run combined with the conventional open hole logs to minimize the formation exposure time, real time down-hole fluid analysis started very shortly after drilling to the bottom of the target reservoir, based on the rush open hole log interpretation. Different sensors, with different physics (namely; fluid viscosity, density, sound speed, optical refractive index, temperature, fluid mobility and compressibility) were used to characterize the fluid during the pump-out stations. Due to the minimized mud filtrate invasion effects, this operational sequence allowed the gathering of conclusive formation fluid samples with less pumping time and volume. This paper shows the operational planning, design and execution outlines, discusses the benefits of acquiring clean formation samples right after drilling compared to those acquired with the conventional conveyance techniques, and indicates the drawbacks and the limitations of this technology together with any window of improvement.
Energy Efficiency Methodologies and Innovative Applications in the Upstream Sector
Authors: Faraoni G. , Lupica D. S. , Zapelloni M. , Accanito C. , Michetti V. , De Ghetto G.
Published: November 2015

This paper looks at the Eni energy efficiency program (EEP) for operational and design optimization of the oil ' gas plants.

The Oil ' Gas sector is a significant energy consumer and CO2 emitter and the potential for energy saving can allow this sector to play a major role in achieving the Climate Change policy objectives.

This paper reports on the work undertaken internally by the Company and focuses on the methodology adopted, the main results achieved in the last years and the potential Energy Efficiency (EE) improvements in future years.

Maximization of energy efficiency plant can be achieved by adopting on a regular basis the most important energy efficiency principles and best practices for operation and engineering design. Moreover, considering that a "better performance" starts with a "better design" suitable to mantain energy efficiency in differing conditions across the fields lifecycle, the rules adopted in the earliest phases of the design are basic and can play a very important role to further improve the future EE and operational performance.

The paper includes a qualitative analysis of the more promising and innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency of these oil ' gas facilities.
Hydrocarbon Potential of Early Syn-Rift Plays in the Flank of Continental Rift Basin: A Case Study in the Eastern Edge of Cuu Long Basin, Offshore Vietnam
Authors: Tran Huy N. , Hoang Dang N. , Tran Xuan V.
Published: November 2015

Structural syn-rift reservoirs in faulted margins of continental rift basins are usually disregarded in exploration consideration due to concerns of absence of reliable top seal and diagenetic alterations that significantly reduce reservoir rocks’ porosity/permeability. Not an exception to this trend, Early Oligocene reservoirs in the eastern margin of Cuu Long Basin, offshore Vietnam were overlooked in the past since they were interpreted as small and scattered structures without top seals. This paper presents the re-evaluation of hydrocarbon potential of the early syn-rift plays in the flank of continental rift basins based on a case study in the eastern edge of Cuu Long Basin in light of the new seismic data as well as drilling results.

Recent exploration results in the eastern edge of Cuu Long Basin differ from past assessment regarding early syn-rift reservoirs of the area. Re-processed and new seismic data supported by latest well data put top of granitic basement at a deeper depth than previously interpreted. As a result, syn-rift reservoirs which were small and insignificant have become large scale and two- or three-way faulted structures. Key reservoirs discovered is the basal sandstones which deposited right on top and shared a similar topography with the underlying Pre-Cenozoic granitic basement, mainly composed of near source sediment, mostly granitic fragments. These basal sandstones’ porosity and permeability have been preserved better than shallower reservoirs thanks to the unaltered Feldspars in granitic fragments. Analyses of new wells data also indicate the existence of thick and extensively distributed organic-rich shale formations on top of the basal sandstones. These black shale layers not only act as top seals to hydrocarbon migration for underneath reservoirs but also play the role of a "stress shield" that absorbs and dissipates vertical compaction and helps preserve porosity and/or permeability.

The results of this study coupled with important drilling discoveries have confirmed the hydrocarbon potential in the eastern edge of Cuu Long Basin. This leads to a revived petroleum exploration and development activities in this area where early syn-rift prospects have been overlooked. Furthermore, these findings, applicable to the eastern edge of Cuu Long Basin, can be used as principal guidance for hydrocarbon evaluation and exploration strategy in similar syn-rift basins.
Integrated Evaluation Approach and Implications of High Permeability Streaks in Giant Carbonate OilField
Authors: Adeoye O. M. , Gerges N. , Bin Ujal N. N. , Noordin F. B. , El Din S. S , Ismail A. M. , Mbonu E. , Al Shehhi S. A. , Salem D. J. , Fawzy A. M. , El Maghraby M. , Al Menhali H. T. , Al Marzouqi A. , Jasser M. H. , Yaslam M. M
Published: November 2015

This paper covers a super giant carbonate oilfield in the Middle East that has enjoyed pressure support and voidage maintenance, primarily with peripheral water injection and pattern development in some reservoir units over the last decades. However, premature and non-uniform water front advancement has been a great challenge, resulting in early and uncontrolled water breakthrough with some wells becoming inactive due to increasing watercut. This challenge is mostly attributed to reservoir heterogeneity and particularly to the presence of un-mapped high permeability streaks (greater than 1Darcy) in the carbonate reservoir, usually resulting in by-passed oil and high value of Remaning Oil Saturation with poorer sweep efficiency. As a result, aiming to reach the desired ultimate recovery factor has become a challenge.

A multidisciplinary approach involving the integration of various datasets, including geology (core facies and core description), geophysics (seismic stratigraphy), petrophysics (open hole logs, cased hole saturation time-lapse logs, and cased hole production logs), reservoir and production engineering (actual wells performance), and drilling data (mud losses, pilot hole) etc, were used to identify the high permeability streaks aerially and vertically within the reservoir. These high permeability streaks were then tested in the 3D dynamic model with various sensitivities to assess the impact on the reservoir performance in order to improve the match with the actual performance.

The preliminary results were further validated by acquiring more data and gaining deeper understanding from Pulse Neutron logs, Injection and Production Logging, Flow tests, Pressure Transient Analysis etc.

In order to reactivate inactive wells, increase production performance, and improve the sweep efficiency, targeted water shut-off was carried out to isolate the watered out intervals. Injection and Production logging gave more insights to understanding injection conformance and reservoir performance with adequate measures taken to ensure optimal reservoir management. In addition, areas with by-passed oil were targeted with revised well completion, infill drilling and artificial lift strategies.

This paper describes the approach used, challenges encountered, results obtained, and the way forward.
Smart Proxy: An Innovative Reservoir Management Tool; Case Study of a Giant Mature Oilfield in the UAE
Authors: Mohaghegh S. D. , Abdulla F. , Abdou M. , Gaskari R. , Maysami M.
Published: November 2015

Reservoir management requires tools that can (a) provide fast track and accurate assessment of a large variety of operations, while (b) are capable of quantifying uncertainties associated with management decisions. Reservoir managers must be able to compare and contrast a large number of development scenarios, while taking into account the uncertainties and risks involved with each scenario, in a relatively short period of time. To achieving this important task with traditional technologies one must either sacrifice the accuracy or the speed.

While numerical reservoir simulation models can provide the required accuracy, they fall short in providing the required speed. On the other hand, reduced models (conventional proxy models that rely on analytical solutions, simplified physics-based models or statistics-based response surfaces) can provide fast output (speed) but fail to fulfill the required accuracy.

Surrogate Reservoir Model (SRM) is a "smart" proxy of the numerical reservoir simulation model. SRM is developed to address this short coming in reservoir management. SRM takes advantage of the machine learning and pattern recognition capabilities of Artificial Intelligence and Data Mining (AI&DM) in order to "learn" and then accurately replicate the functionalities of the numerical reservoir simulation model. Smart proxy (SRM) runs at very high speed such that a single run of the smart proxy takes only a fraction of a second.

This paper presents highlights of development and application of a smart proxy (SRM) in the case of a giant mature oilfields in the United Arab Emirates. The SRM is developed for a multi-million cell, highly complex, naturally fractured, carbonate, numerical reservoir simulation model (developed using an industry standard commercial numerical simulator) with more than 500 wellbores. The SRM is validated through blind simulation runs and is used to plan filed development while honoring a number of operational constraints (such as limits on FBHP, GOR and WC) required by reservoir management team. SRM was used to increase field production without drilling new wells. This was accomplished by identify the optimum choke size schedule for each well in order to maximize oil production while minimizing the water cut.
HSE Critical Equipment & Systems - Management System (HSECES-MS) overview
Authors: Bell P. J. , Al Busaeedi A. M.
Published: November 2015

ZADCO, as an Operating Company under ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) is required to implement the mandatory ADNOC Codes of Practice (COP).

This paper provides an overview of the ZADCO approach to assess, adopt and satisfy the ADNOC COP 6.01 – "IDENTIFICATION AND INTEGRITY ASSURANCE OF HSE CRITICAL EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS" within its various Operating Sites and Facilities.

ADNOC COP 6.01 defines a process and procedures by which ADNOC will ensure that HSE critical equipment and systems (HSECES) are suitable for their required function and maintained in a condition to continue to perform their function.

HSECES are defined as any part of an installation (Facility) or structure, equipment and system, the failure of which could cause, prevent, contribute to, or limit the effect of a major accident. In order to meet the regulatory requirements of ADNOC COP V6.01 it is essential that the integrity of HSECES is assured throughout the facilities lifecycle, from design to decommissioning and disposal.
Addressing The Challenges For Safety And Mobility In Facilities With Large Red Zones: A Field-testing Case Study
Authors: Sabet Karim , Gilbert Mike , Daher Elie
Published: November 2015

In the Middle East, a large gas reservoirs located onshore has been developed to produce sales gas, natural gas liquids, condensates and elemental sulphur. The reservoirs contain very high concentrations (23%) of toxic Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), making it an extremely sour gas field. Based on Quantitative Risk Assessments, certain areas of the gas field facilities have been defined as red zones. These are areas where a potential exists for exposure to such high concentrations of Hydrogen Sulphide that a fatality may occur due to relatively short exposure.

Following the operator’s code of practice on management of hydrogen sulphide, large red zones were identified: all well pads in the gas gathering network and the western area of the gas plant including the receivers, slug catcher, and inlet separation, gas sweetening & condensate stabilization units. A leak from the western area would potentially create dangerous levels of toxic and flammable gas clouds within minutes. As a result, access to the red zone is controlled and only authorized and trained personnel are allowed to enter the red zone. When conducting maintenance activities, personnel must don a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or be connected to an airline at all times.

A solution was engineered to access the large red zone and minimize breathing air consumption from SCBAs. This paper presents the field-testing results of the innovation aimed at resolving both flammability and toxicity issues while providing mobility in red zones. By integrating breathing air systems and gas monitoring systems into the overall shape and form of an explosion-proof vehicle, the transport of personnel and equipment for daily operations and maintenance in red zones has been made safer and more efficient. The technology does not interfere with any of the vehicle functions or impede the vehicle operator in performing his duties. Results of the field test indicate that the explosion-proof vehicle helps reduce personnel fatigue in large plants where there are significant distances to traverse. Direct cost savings, reduced travel time and increased personnel morale were some of the achieved results. For emergency response situations, the vehicle can extend rescue operations. At present, standard rescue operations are limited to thirty minutes due to a limited portable air supply. The vehicle carries 400 cubic feet of air as a standard, providing enough breathing air for two persons for two hours.

This is a case study of the radical innovation that provides safety and mobility in red zones. To date, it has served as a permanent H2S monitoring vehicle. It requires very little maintenance and has been found to withstand extreme weather conditions in the Middle East. With modifications, it can also serve as a dedicated emergency vehicle to rescue personnel within a toxic, potentially explosive atmosphere.
Optimization of an Existing Habshan II Amine Sweetening Unit at Variable Throughputs
Authors: Alkasem Abdulkader , Al Zarouni Y. A. , Slagle J. C. , Berrouk A. S. , Satyadileep D.
Published: November 2015

As part of its ongoing optimization effort, Abu Dhabi Gas Industries (GASCO) is working with the Petroleum Institute (PI) and Bryan Research and Engineering Inc. (BR&E) to identify opportunities for optimization of the Habshan II amine sweetening unit for a wide range of gas throughput.

In a previous study, ProMax®, a process simulation package, was first verified by comparing the model results to operating data for about 300 days and was then used to optimize the facility operating near maximum capacity. Recently, most of the gas has been diverted to another facility resulting in Habshan II operating in the 30-40% capacity range.

In the present study, ProMax, is used to re-optimize the facility at the current low throughput. The model results for the new optimum are implemented in the plant and compared to operating data to confirm the predictions. In addition, the plant plans to increase throughput in the coming months. Therefore, the plant has been optimized at various gas flowrates to provide operators with set points at any given gas flowrate. In addition to preparing operators for throughput fluctuations, the results show a reduction of operating costs that amount to roughly 800,000 USD/yr.
A One Dimensional Model to Track the Black Powder Dispersion and Deposition within Gas Transmission Network
Authors: Filali A. , Khezzar L. , Alshehhi M. , Kharoua N.
Published: November 2015

Black powder (BP) is a universal problem that occurs in sales gas pipelines all over the world. It can cause costly problems for the pipeline operation, instruments and processing industries. The main objective of the present study is to develop a novel methodology for tracking the concentration of BP within the gas transmission network taking into account the deposition of solid particles. The mathematical model is based on the 1D flow and dusty gas assumptions. The analytical solution of a one-dimensional scalar advection/reaction equation is used to track the concentration of BP within the whole gas network. The reaction term in the advection/reaction equation represents the concentration changes due to the deposition of solid particles. Different flow conditions and particle diameters are considered. The approach is tested by considering particle-laden flow in pipe segments with and without junctions which were simulated using CFD based on the discrete particle model (DPM). The 1D approach is validated with the CFD simulation for single pipe geometry. The results for the tree-shaped network shows that the sub-microns particle can be transported throughout tree shaped network, while the larger particles of diameters dp > 1 (μm) are likely to settle rapidly near to the source, forming stratified beds. The obtained results from the present study are of significant practical interest, due to the lack of available data on BP dispersion in natural gas networks that have been reported in the literature to date. Mapping of BP distribution within the gas transmition network provides essential data that can help to identify the locations of where the filters/cyclone seperators can be installed within the gas transmission network. This leads to better options for efficienly removing and managing the BP in the gas network to protect the downstream equipments
Restoring and Managing Brownfield Wells Integrity to Operate Safely and Reliably in South of Iraq
Authors: Kareem Hindawi , Ali Al Jumah , Zahra Muhanad Abdul , Al-Ibraheemi Abdulameer Turki
Published: November 2015

Well integrity describes the status of a well's ability to function effectively and safely within its operational envelope as defined by the Well Integrity Management Standards. It is part of asset integrity work stream and ensures wells are compliant with Shell's Asset Integrity – Process Safety Management Standards (AI-PSM)

Shell took on a project in the south of Iraq to develop a huge oil field. Part of the initial stages of the project was to reach First Commercial Prodcution by 2013. This compromised of drilling new wells as well as working over existing legacy wells that were inherited from the previous local operator.

The challenge was keeping legacy wells in production by reducing the risk imposed to as low as possible through a series of activities and campaigns, starting with working over 17 wells.

The majority of the legacy wells had no Subsurface Surface Safety Valves (SSSV) or production packers, and production was often occurring through tubing and the production casing. The unmaintained X-mas tress and well heads posed a range of threats and risks, with several wells having surface leaks of hydrocarbons.

The project of restoring well integrity to meet minimum AI-PSM standards was divided into two main phases. Phase 1, was a campaign to fully workover wells by removing existing old completions and replace them with new completions (tubing, packers, SSSV & X-mas trees). This was conducted with a work over rig over a 2 year period.

Phase 2, is post production and focuses mainly on restoring well head integrity to the minimum standards as defined by Shell. This workscope is rig less and requires specialized vendors & equipment. Well restoration is a challenging project and along with the work done on the wells, many procedures and standards had to be formulated to meet specific requirements.
Building a High Performance Culture in a New Oil & Gas Joint Venture
Authors: Al Saad Marwah
Published: November 2015

Tatweer Petroleum is a four-year old Joint Venture between three dissimilar entities that entered into a Development and Production Sharing Agreement (DPSA) with the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The parties to this agreement are Mubadala Petroleum (UAE), Nogaholding (Bahrain) and Occidental Petroleum (USA). As a result, Tatweer has the privilege of accessing expertise and tap into the resources of the three partners whenever and wherever needed which is a major asset to the organization. Another benefit of such partnership is the cultural diversity that Tatweer currently enjoys with employees from over 35 different nationalities with different experiences and affiliations.

At Tatweer, we believe that the DNA of our high performance culture is our core values. For organizational success, we put our ‘people’ first as they are our competitive advantage.

Tatweer recently introduced several initiatives intended to build this highly performance-driven culture and to maintain Tatweer's position as an employer of choice. Tatweer has developed a rigorous objective-based appraisal program and procedures to link an individuals' performance to their merit increase, annual bonus entitlements and their qualification to be on the Company's succession plan. Tatweer has developed a KPI matrix to link the Company's performance to an element in the annual bonus. Teaming with a reputable institute in the field of compensation and benefits, the Company has been able to develop a competitive compensation program to compete in the local and regional markets and to attract talented candidates to assist with Tatweer's progress. The Company has also partnered with reputed institutions to capture bright, energetic nationals through an apprenticeship program that provides the opportunity for local nationals to excel in various fields such as electrical, mechanical, instrumentation and field operations.

In our presentation, we will share the challenges as well as the initiatives that Tatweer has introduced to build a high performance competitive environment that is essential to meet the challenges inherent in such aggressive plans and achieve the JV's goals.

As such, training and development, technology transfer and talent management have become the three key challenges as we work to build a high performance culture in Tatweer.

Our high performing team players are focused on delivering, learning and advancing in our performance driven culture.

While adding great value, these cultural and organizational diversities create a challenge for Human Resources to manage in light of the DPSA's requirements to increase localization percentage to 80% in a relatively short period of time without jeopardizing the quality of resources in the organization.
Developing Future Leaders
Authors: Mohamed A.
Published: November 2015

Over the years ADGAS has continuously grown in terms of achievements, reputation and its commitment to Emiratization. As a result the need for highly qualified Emirati leaders has grown.

The Leaders of Tomorrow (LoT) programme is an ADGAS initiative designed to identify, attract and develop promising Emirati's for leadership roles within the company's structure. The programme prepares these promising candidates to become effective leaders, enabling them to contribute to broader organizational goals. The essence of the (LoT) programme is to provide these young Emirati employees with a variety of work related experiences/roles within ADGAS organization to prepare them for future leadership positions.

Given the growing requirement for suitable Emirati candidates to fill critical roles within the organisation ADGAS management have fully supported the LoT programme from its early inception. Under their patronage, the LoT programme has become a major next step for ADGAS employees into their career development.

The documented feedback received from employees related to the LoT scheme has highlighted the positive effects of the ‘experiential’ team development approach used with special interest in the work based assignments that were included.

An integral part of the development of these candidates is the open and frank discussions relating to personnel management issues, including the role of women in their professions, and the difficulties facing young managers when trying to make improvements. These conversations have led to a better understanding of gender issues amongst co-workers and generated much discussion on how to make their voices heard in the workplace.

Over 100 candidates initially applied for the programme and attended a two day assessment. 35 joined the programme which started in Q 1 2014. In May 2015, 26 candidates successfully graduated from the LoT programme.
Business Continuity Assurance by Integrating Emergency Response Systems
Authors: Hashi Ahmed , Al-Hammadi Hassan , Al-Shehhi S. , Al-Sayed T. , Binthabet Hussein
Published: November 2015

ADMA-OPCO operates thousands of kilometers of subsea pipelines and large number of offshore structures, these assets are spread over four different fields and the in-field production converges on several large diameter transmission pipelines.

Risk management assessment has identifed risk factors that are inherent in offshore production, some of these risk factors such as third party damages to subsea oil transmission pipelines can have serious business interruption and environmental impacts, on this basis and in line with ADMA-OPCO operational excellence policy, the company has developed the most advanced and dynamic "Integrated Emergency Response System" in the region.

In the event of an incident that could lead to an oil spill, marine vessels operating in the field are deployed within hours to contain, control and recover the oil spill. This event is immediately followed by the EPRS (Emergency Pipeline Repair Service) that immediately starts to repair the damaged pipeline and return the asset back into service.

The whole operation is controlled and monitored from a centralized command control center in the main headquater. As HSE guidelines become more stringent, innovations help to develop new tools and equipment that ensures that oil spills can be reduced.

ADMA-OPCO's integrated oil spill and EPRS system has enhanced business continuity assurance and reduced the outage duration of pipelines under repair. The Abu Dhabi EPRS club is made up of six offshore opertors who share this contract which is managed by ADMA-OPCO and NPCC is appointed as the principal marine contractor to provide emergency services.
Successful Project Execution Strategies Implemented at ADCO SAS FFD - South East Asset
Authors: Al-Tamimi Salman Nasser , Constantini Ahmed , Al Nassarwin Muawia Salman
Published: November 2015

ADCO South East Asset has recently comissioned a major project called SAS Project, the project was part of ADCO plan of delivering 1.8 MMbd sustainable oil production capacity by end 2017.

The project has contributed in adding 115 Mbd from the three developed areas, Asab, Sahil and Shah.

In Asab 50 Mbd has been added and the project new facilities increased the oil production from 290 to 340 Mbd, in Sahil 45 Mbd has been added and Sahil production was increased from 55 to 100 and similarly Shah production was increased by 20 Mbd from 50 to 70 Mbd.

Project execution Level I schedule consist of Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Pre-Commissioning/ Commissioning and all of those stages are logically linked and the successful completion of each stage will affect other stages and will lead to project overall success.

Different successful strategies have been implemented throughout the EPC, in this paper we will review in details those strategies and will highlight how challenges were faced.

The purpose of this paper is to share ADCO's project experience, and to highlights the strategies which were adopted and resulted in the achievement of successful project execution in areas of engineering, procurement, construction and management.