Digitalization of Oil Fields Realtime Virtual Flow and Flow Assurance Solutions: Leveraging Integrate Asset Models for Efficiency, Safety, and Sustainable Growth
Authors: Donepudi Jagadesh , Kamerkar Tushar 
Published: November 2024

Objectives/Scope

India imports 85% of its crude oil, highlighting the need for investment in exploration and production to achieve self-sufficiency. However, obtaining real-time data from remote wells requires continuous monitoring and optimization. Siloed operations hinder a holistic view of reservoirs and processing facilities. The growing data volumes and business volatility complicate decision-making. Digitalization through real-time digital twins and IIOT-enabled sensors connected to cloud systems can enhance monitoring and maximize production in remote oil fields.

Methods, Procedures, Process

The implementation of an Integrated Asset Model in oil fields is crucial for better production insights and flow assurance. Digitalizing the oil fields through wireless sensor systems and IoT can enhance facility performance and optimization opportunities. IAMs and digital twins, using advanced analytics, solve complex decision-making challenges. These technologies consider various factors and interdependencies, providing accurate results and reducing the risk of incidents. Integrated Asset Model systems enable end-to-end simulation and comprehensive evaluation of production scenarios, facilitating informed decision-making and identifying bottlenecks. Overall, adopting these technologies can improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and prevent potential issues in oil field operations.

Results, Observations, Conclusions

The Integrated Asset Model connected to real-time production data serves as an advisory system in open-loop mode or as part of a closed-loop control system to optimize the facility's operation. It enhances operational efficiency by providing flexible configuration, data accuracy, and predictive capabilities The key observations include: Well Performance Monitoring Ensures that operations are efficient, safe, and reliable. It achieves this by offering timely alerts and operational insights to prevent downtime and production losses.Production Allocation Using VFM (Virtual Flow Metering) Traditionally, this process relied on expensive instrumentation. However, with the Integrated Asset Model's simulation model-based approach, it can now be done with minimal instrumentation requirements. This not only reduces costs but also increases data accuracy and reliability.Hydrate Formation and Wax Deposition Prediction Critical for flow assurance and production applications where preventing these issues is crucial.Lift Gas Optimization Plays a vital role in optimizing savings and operational efficiency by ensuring optimal gas injection for enhanced oil recovery. Under-injection of gas can lead to sub-optimal oil recovery, while over-injection not only wastes gas but also results in additional energy consumption, fuel use, and emissions.

Novel / Additive Information

The Integrated Asset Model emerges as an essential tool for companies seeking to maximize their return on capital and achieve sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector. This comprehensive system enables efficient management and optimization of assets throughout their lifecycle, from reservoir to market. Additionally, the Integrated Asset Model's thermo-dynamic engine ensures accurate fluid behaviour prediction, reducing risks and guaranteeing regulatory compliance.