bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reconsideration of Steam Additives to Improve Displacement Efficiency: Can New Generation Chemicals be Solution for Steam Induced Unfavorable Wettability Alteration?
Authors: Pratama Randy Agra , Babadagli Tayfun 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
In this paper, contact angles in a rock/heavy-oil/steam system were measured to observe the degree of wettability alteration when unconventional chemicals were added to steam. A heavy-crude-oil obtained from a field in Alberta (27,780 cP at 25°C) was used in all contact angle measurements and the measurements were repeated on different types of substrates (quartz and calcite). In addition to this observation, surface tension tests between heavy-oil and steam were also conducted to study the change in interfacial properties. All measurements in this research were conducted at a range of temperatures up to 200°C in a high-temperature-high-pressure IFT device. In gaining a comprehensive evaluation of this mechanism, several impacting factors such as pressure, phase change, and type of rock were taken into consideration and evaluated separately. Different types of novel chemical additives—biodiesel, Switchable-Hydrophilicity Tertiary Amines (SHTA), nanofluids (dispersed SiO2 and ZrO2), ethers, alcohols, and chelating agents—were ere applied to the steam with a range of concentrations throughout surface tension and contact angle measurements to evaluate wettability alteration performance at steam temperature and pressure.
The observation presented that pressure does not contribute substantially to the wettability state and was perceived to be more oil-wet in steam conditions—as also confirmed by our previous research. The irreversible mechanism of wettability state was the result when phase change occurred with the presence of brine. Wettability alteration and surface tension reduction in steam condition were achieved after involving these unconventional chemicals, an example being in the steam with biodiesel application. In addition, optimum chemical concentration was also observed through surface tension and contact angle measurements.
The study and analysis of chemical additives applications provides a stronger understanding of steam-induced wettability alteration mechanisms in a rock/heavy-oil/steam system. In summary, conventional steam additives can be altered by these novel chemicals that are both cheaper and more thermally stable, thus showing potential and appearing promising for steam wettability improvement and surface tension reduction in steam applications.
Human Factors and Non-Technical Skills: Towards an Immersive Simulation-Based Training Framework for Offshore Drilling Operations
Authors: Kiran Raj , Naqavi Seyed Ali , Salehi Saeed , Teodoriu Catalin 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Human factors are identified as the major contributor to oil and gas drilling and other operations related accidents. Offshore oil and gas operations involve complex scenarios and decision-making with potentially catastrophic consequences. The current simulation-based training modules are often criticized for their lack of objective and validated measures for human factors and non-technical skills. There is also a need to include measures for enhanced situational awareness and decision-making for the offshore drilling crew. In this study, we present holistic human-centered training framework equipped with assessment techniques to analyses situational awareness of partcipants in customized well-control operations.
The training exercise used in this work included real-time well control operation customized for drilling break and kick detection scenarios. The assessment approach consisted of eye-tracking data analysis, questionnaire analysis, checklist score analysis, and communication log analysis. After individual analysis from each technique, a new framework was developed to triangulate results from each technique to provide a comprehensive assessment. The participants included seven group of novices and one group of experts. The preliminary results indicate significant differences between the situation awareness and performance of participants. Furthermore, there were observed notable differences between the perceptual, comprehensive, and projection ability of novices and experts in routine jobs on a drilling platform. The eye-tracking data features included fixation count and fixation duration, and it was inferred that eye-tracking results can be representative of cognitive abilities of the partcipants. Furthermore, the fixation count and duration results were highly correlated with the checklist scores.
Overall, the adopted methodology in this study have potential to open new avenues for human- centered training framework and improvement in traditional assessment approach. Furthermore, it can also be helpful in understanding of cognitive responses of the offshore professionals.
Rapid Development and Deployment of a High Expansion Retrievable V0 Bridge Plug
Authors: Phan Anthony , Yin Shengjun , Ornelaz Richard , Jorgensen Geir 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
This paper presents the rapid development of a high expansion retrievable V0-rated bridge plug that effectively leveraged engineering simulation and additive manufacturing to design, optimize, and qualify the new plug in accordance with the ISO14310 and API11D1 standards. This technology was mobilized for deployment into a customer well within less than 12 months.
For this project, a major Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) operator required a high expansion wireline retrievable bridge plug with a small outside diameter (OD) that was capable of gas-tight zonal isolation in 7 in. tubing while meeting the ISO14310 and API 11D1 V0 classifications. To address this challenge, several design concepts were developed using computer-aided design (CAD) and simulated using finite element analysis (FEA) to determine the optimal design and to establish the design factor of safety. Initial prototype testing showed unexpected failures of the mechanical backup system as a result of non-uniform loading from the rubber element, which had been assumed to be evenly distributed for the initial FEA. Leveraging FEA to verify the failure mode increased its fidelity and enabled successful generation of alternate solutions with an alternate material, in this case nickel alloy 718. A revised mechanical backup system was manufactured within three weeks using internal direct metal additive manufacturing capability; it was successfully validated within an additional two weeks. The final V0 trials were successfully completed a month later with additively manufactured components, and the technology was mobilized for deployment into the operator’s well within less than 12 months.
The successful design, development, and mobilization of the 7-in. high expansion V0-rated bridge plug within only 12 months demonstrates how FEA modeling and additive manufacturing can be successfully leveraged to reduce development timelines while identifying and producing innovative solutions. Speed to market and the delivery of robust solutions on time are becoming more critical in the cost-constrained oil market; consequently, tools such as FEA and additive manufacturing are increasingly becoming fundamental methods for meeting these new challenges, as demonstrated by the 7-in. high expansion V0 bridge plug project.
This paper shows how leveraging FEA in conjunction with fundamental testing failure analysis can be critical to overcoming technical challenges. Furthermore, combining these capabilities with additive manufacturing can accelerate timelines and increase the probability of project success and operator satisfaction.
Who Needs Two Trips? Remotely Activated Downhole Tools Facilitate a Deep-Water Single Trip Completion. A Case Study of the First Deployment
Authors: Murdoch Euan , Walduck Steve , Munro Chris , Edwards Andrew , Choquet Caroline 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Successfully deploying a single trip completion system in a deep-water environment requires an innovative technical solution to address the risks that come with this environment. Following a request from the operator for a deep-water single trip solution, a number of different system options were proposed. Each system was evaluated against the operator’s requirements, and a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology-based system was selected as it offered the greatest flexibility in both activation and contingency methods to meet the demands of the project.
It was proposed to hold a 2 stage System Integration Test (SIT) at a test rig in Aberdeen. The first SIT was performed with a small number of tools that could be setup in different modes to prove the system’s logic against the operator’s expectations. Whilst this was conducted successfully a number of learnings and operational optimisations were captured. These were fed into a full-scale SIT which was deployed at the same test rig. This second SIT involved a complete representation of the single trip system and was designed to test the final system logic prior to deployment into an offshore environment.
The system was then installed successfully in November 2018, on a subsea well, offshore Nigeria with no intervention. It resulted in an operational time saving of at least 60% over the previous best recorded time for a conventional two-trip completion from the same rig. This represented a step change in operational efficiency and will now be the operator’s base case completion methodology as they develop the field further.
This is the first time a single trip completion has been deployed in this fashion in a deep-water, offshore environment. The demonstrable step change in operational time and resultant project OPEX savings, proves that the use of RFID and remote actuated tools within completions offer excellent alternatives to traditional methods.
Breaking Barriers: 350°C Rated Permanent Magnet Motor Design for Electric Submersible Pumps in SAGD wells
Authors: Mansir Hassan , Rimmer Michael , Waldner Leon , Graham John , Hong Claire , Wycislik Kerry , Duong Bruce 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The development of a High-Temperature Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) was initiated with the main objective to bring forth a technical solution to significantly increase temperature capability and run life of ESPs in Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) beyond current technology. This is in response to operators needs for improved safety margins and increased production rates.
Existing ESP motor technologies are limited to approximately 300°C internal motor winding temperatures, driven by the available motor electrical insulation systems. The use of PMMs in SAGD was also prohibited by the availability of magnet materials capable of operating in such temperatures, without partial or full de-magnetization.
The project's aim is to break this barrier and extend internal temperatures to 350°C and beyond, allowing well ambient temperatures to be pushed beyond the 260°C downhole environment. In addition, for assurance of motor reliability, rigorous and methodical design validation and qualification testing of basic materials, components, sub-assemblies were undertaken.
Saturation Height Function Coupled with Rocktype in Complex Clastic Reservoir in the North of Albert Basin, Uganda
Authors: Zhang Yingchun , Xu Wei , Zou Jingyun , Jing Zhiyi , Fang Lei , Liu Jun 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
In complex clastic reservoirs, deviation often exists in oil saturation derived from logging interpretation due to the borehole conditions and log quality. Especially in thin-sand reservoirs, oil saturation is generally lower than actual results because of boundary effect. An innovative approach of saturation height function coupled with rocktype is provided to improve the accuracy of saturation prediction in well logs and spatial distribution. The model results are compared with log derived results.
The new approach is based on the routine and special core analysis of over 100 core samples from the complex clastic reservoir in the north of Albert Basin in Uganda. Discrete rocktypes (DRT) are determined by flow zone index and pore throat radius which indicate the fluid flows. After converting the capillary pressure (Pc) data to reservoir conditions, Lambda curve fitting (Sw = A * PcB + C) is used to fit each capillary pressure curve. Then, a robust relationship between the fitting coefficients (A, B, C) and rock properties (i.e. porosity and permeability) is expressed as a nonlinear function for each DRT. Combined with the height above free water level, a water saturation (Sw) model is constructed by SHF within DRT model.
Using the porosity and permeability obtainedfrom routine core analysis, FZI and pore throat radius are calculated (e.g., by Winland function). Five different rocktypes (DRT1-5) are defined in the delta sand reservoir in the north of Albert Basin with distinct pore textures. The distinguishment is in accordance with the shape of capillary pressure curve, that is, the flow capability increases from DRT1 to DRT5. A strong correlation between Pc and Sw processed by Lambda curve is acquired for each core sample. Meanwhile, 3 coefficients A, B and C can be obtained in Lambda formula. By nonlinear regression, coherent relation between each factor and reservoir properties (porosity and permeability) for each DRT are obtained. Height above the free water level is estimated by geometrical modeling on the oil water contact. The Sw model is constructed by the new SHF function coupled with DRT model. It showed that the water saturation derived from SHF is highly consistent with log derived results and NMR results. Moreover, it provides more precise results in thinner sands and in spatial distribution.
Based on the identified different rocktype, a new SHF derived from capillary pressure data is utilized to establish the relationship between saturation, the height above the free water level and rock properties. The approach can significantly improve the accuracy of saturation prediction of thin reservoir and reasonably depict the spatial distribution characteristics of saturation. Furthermore, the approach will provide a more precise result in hydrocarbon volume calculation and numerical simulation.
Core Floods vs. Field Pilot – Effectiveness of Microemulsions in Conventional and Unconventional Waterfloods
Authors: Stephenson Tim , Oswald Darin , Dwyer Pat , Brown Derek , Ndefo Emeka , Smith Jeff , Gaffney Breandan , Kiran Sumit 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Application of chemistries for waterflooding has traditionally required a significant upfront investment in core flood testing. Investments of this sort equate to money and time spent on a reservoir screening tool which does not guarantee an accurate translation into pilots. The aim of this paper is to explore core flood results in conjunction with pilot results for conventional and unconventional reservoirs where microemulsions are deployed in order to enhance oil recovery.
Microemulsions act as a delivery platform for solvent (terpene) and surfactant mixtures throughout a given rock volume. Their ability to alleviate damage and change the energetics of surfaces is believed to enhance mobilization of oil. They’re optimized for a given reservoir in the laboratory based on fluid-fluid and fluid-rock interactions. This includes adsorption (persistency), asphaltene wash-off, demulsification, drop size, and interfacial tension testing. We in turn label changes in injectivity of water as well as increases in oil production as indicators of success in core floods and pilots.
The above strategy has led to microemulsion optimization in Taylorton Bakken (which is more conventional) and Lower Shaunavon (which is more unconventional) in SE and SW Saskatchewan, Canada. These are characterized by changes in permeability, temperature, mineralogy (quartz vs calcite), oil (paraffinic vs asphaltenic) and water (high vs low salinity). This study demonstrates a beneficial core flood and pilot response in conventional reservoirs using microemulsions. What’s however interesting and noteworthy is that the core flood response is negligible in unconventionals (&lt;5% incremental oil recovery) due in part to asphaltenes plating out on the core’s exterior surface during restoration of wettability, whereas the pilot response is quite positive.
The major highlight of this work is the need to address the discrepancy in core flood testing and pilot results in unconventional reservoirs. This is required before core flood testing can be used as a reliable screening tool for unconventional reservoirs. We’ve furthermore demonstrated the beneficial impact of microemulsions in both conventional and unconventional reservoirs as well as the need for optimization based on fluid-fluid and fluid-rock interactions.
A Novel Systematic Approach for the Identification and Evaluation of Environmental and Social Aspects in Oil and Gas Projects Mexico
Authors: Purewal Satinder , Pacheco-Roman Francisco J. , Hernández Juárez Mayelli , León Mella José A. , Mera Avecias Guillermina 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
The objective is to present a matrix to identify environmental and social aspects which may impact the initiation, assessment, approval of final investment decision and implementation of oil and gas projects in Mexico. The matrix is applied to 19 blocks. The results demonstrate the usefulness in ease of identification of key elements which may be focus of attention to project feasibility. This may be used as tool for resource classification, and thus adapted to other countries.
The Agency for Safety, Energy and Environment (ASEA) with collaboration from the Energy Ministry (SENER) were involved while the project selection was integrated by the National Hydrocarbon Commission (CNH). CNH selected 19 blocks for review with 75 oil and gas projects. SENER and ASEA developed a matrix with clear identification of environmental and social aspects which may have an impact on the potential implementation of each project. The traffic light and multivariate analysis methods were adopted to colour code the environmental and social elements. This coding allowed quick identification of key areas which need to be addressed for project feasibility.
The selected blocks were located both offshore and onshore with different environmental and social issues. Unconventional and conventional resource developments were covered in the projects. The use of the matrix provided a consistent tool for better identification and understanding of the social and environmental aspects interacting in each block. It also emphasized the main sources of information and the best way to evaluate systematically the social and environmental aspects. The application of the matrix on real blocks exposed the social and environmental aspects that must to be addressed for the oil industry to develop from a sustainable vision. The evaluation of diverse blocks allowed for the identification of common characteristics and the subsequent classification of the blocks. The developed matrix may be used as a tool for making energy policy decisions. At the national level, it may also assist in understanding and meeting some of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's).
This paper presents a novel matrix to identify environmental and social elements relevant for the development of any oil and gas project. It also proposes a useful traffic light and multivariate analysis methods for the evaluation of these elements. The matrix allows quick and easy reference for identification of the key elements which may be focus of attention to oil and gas project feasibility. This approach may benefit the decision-making process within an integrated sustainability perspective.
Survival of an Optical Fiber Flatpack Due to Perforation
Authors: Craddock G. G. , Wood Stuart , Holley Eric 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Optical fiber flatpacks, which are cable-reinforced plastic-encased fiber bundles used for local temperature and acoustic measurements, can be stressed when near a perforating gun. The fiber itself is floated in metal tubes with gel. Understanding the behavior under severe shock causes the use of potential mitigation schemes. In this work, the flatpack containing optic fibers is simulated for survivability on the casing of a perforating gun system. Using a shock hydrocode in two-dimensions (2D), a flatpack is simulated on the 5 1/2-in. casing of a 3 3/8-in. gun with a 21-g shaped charge. Effects of concrete encasement, clamps, and off-angle shots are considered. The view is in the plane of one shaped charge.
Quantitative results include pressure temporal profiles, velocity profiles, and g acceleration at the fibers. Pressure at the flatpack peak is in the hundreds to thousands of psi, and accelerations peak in the hundreds to thousands of g. Unconfined flatpacks tend to launch from the casing, while confined flatpacks tend to oscillate at their location. Pressure contour models show the shaped charge breaking into multiple pressure pulses. The primary shocks are in front of and behind the charge. Secondary pulses occur off-axis near the base of the charge and from the jet bow shock near the top of the charge. Overall comparative simulation results indicate optimum flatpack location and configuration. Novel mitigation schemes are identified and simulated. A fiber-optic flatpack has been simulated in a zero- degree loaded gun for the first time; this information helped with understanding survivability against shaped charge shocks.
Customizable Synergistic Polymer Micro-Dispersions for Treating Challenging Waxy Crudes in Cold Regions
Authors: Feustel Michael , Goncharov Victor , Kaiser Anton , Smith Rashod , Sahl Mike , Kayser Christoph , Wylde Jonathan , Chapa Amanda 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Transportation of waxy crude oils and mitigation of wax deposition are major challenges especially in regions with cold climate. A viable solution for minimizing organic precipitation and fouling in pipelines or storage tanks is the use of inhibitors and dispersants, however, often those pour point depressants (PPDs) have their own challenges due to their own high product pour points. To overcome these issues a series of high active winterized polymer micro-dispersions were developed. Composition and physical properties of several light to heavy waxy crudes were fully explored based on SARA analysis, wax content and paraffin carbon chain distribution. Performance of candidate chemistries from four major classes of polymeric paraffin inhibitors were studied using industry standard methods. Selected high performing chemistries were processed into micro-dispersions using solvents and surfactants under high shear/ high pressure blending. The new polymer micro-dispersions (MDs) were characterized by their pumpability and stability at cold climates. Series of pour point measurements, rheology profiles and wax deposition tests were carried out for performance comparison of MDs to standard polymers in solution. Processes developed here were versatile to convert polymers from all classes of chemistries into micro-dispersion. Binary and ternary polymeric dispersions were also created showing synergistic effects on the pour point reduction and inhibition of wax deposition of the selected challenging crude oils. The performance of the new polymer micro-dispersions was found comparable to superior with standard polymers in solution. Hence, it was possible to create pumpable inhibitors for extreme cold climates without compromising on performance. The systematic approach used here allowed development of more customized solution based on crude characteristics and desired performance. Micro-dispersions were found stable for long term storage in temperatures ranging from -50°C to +50°C. Multiple global field trials are on-going with very positive results demonstrating early success in lab-to-field deployment. Based on lab and field data, this paper demonstrates that highly active micro-dispersed polymers can perform at significantly lower dosage rate when compared to winterized polymers in solution. Cold storage stability and pumpability eliminated the needs for heated tanks and lines reducing operation and capital expenditures.