bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Establishing an Energy Baseline for Drilling Contractors – An Opportunity for Huge Savings Environment and $$
Authors: Pushkarna Arun , Al Mulla Hind , Elbadiich Akram , Hendawy Mohamed , Badenhorst Petrus , Chandran Dileep , Ricaplaza Archie 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
As a drilling contractor when NDC opted to put in place an Energy Management system it became imperative to establish a baseline of energy consumption so that improvement of energy practices could be measured against this baseline. The task was entrusted to DNVGL Noble Denton. But this posed a unique challenge because very little work had been previously done in the field of energy management by drilling contractors across the world. Due to this ready reference material was not on hand that could be adapted to achieve the baseline study. This paper explains the process adopted by both companies and the outcome of the effort.
The task was approached by first preparing an inventory of the energy consumers across the company. Because the company owned assets stretching across Onshore and Offshore, real estate and transport vehicles, the assets were first grouped into various types. These were: Onshore RigsOffshore RigsCentralized crew campsHead Office BuildingsWarehouseWorkshops, andTransportation assets
Then a sample of each type of asset was visited and the main energy consumers identified. The energy consumption patterns of these assets was then examined to arrive at a specific consumption value that could serve as a baseline for continuous improvement.
The challenges of identifying a typical energy demand for drilling rigs arose from the fact that the energy demand was greatly influenced by the vagaries of the drilling program, type of well, operational practices etc.
Overcoming these challenges required that assumptions be made to rationalize the data so that it could be applied across the company assets.
The baseline energy audit was successfully concluded and areas for improvement were meaningfully identified.
This was the first time that a baseline energy audit for a drilling contractor had been prepared and it has paved the way for other drilling contractors to benefit from the effort. Not surprisingly the audit revealed that the major consumers were the rig engines and thus the maximum benefit could be realized from focusing the company energies on managing these engines. Naturally other easier to implement options exist and have been identified for improving the energy consumption
This is the first effort at establishing an energy consumption pattern for a drilling company in the region and is likely to become a trend very soon because the adoption of the recommendations can be easily and quickly translated into savings for the company running into millions of dollars.
Simulation Study on Influences of Wellbore Tortuosity on Hole Cleaning in Extended-Reach Drilling
Authors: Naganawa Shigemi , Kudo Hiroyasu , Matsubuchi Hitoshi 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
As widely known, wellbore tortuosity or spiraling can lead to the trapping of a cuttings bed in a trough of a tortuous hole, thereby leading to poor hole cleaning in extended-reach drilling. The objectives of this study included quantitatively evaluating the influences of wellbore tortuosity on hole cleaning and cuttings transport behavior in extended-reach drilling. Additionally, the study provided a recommendation of effective drilling practices. The study involved performing hole cleaning optimization studies for an extended-reach well with a long horizontal section aiming for a maximum reservoir contact, using a transient cuttings transport simulator. The planned trajectory of the well was assumed to have a certain degree of wellbore tortuosity in the horizontal section. The pump rate and bottoms-up circulation operation were optimized based on parameter studies and additional transient simulations by considering the effects of penetration rate and variation in cuttings size.
Simulation results indicated the formation of a considerably high cuttings bed, particularly in the down-dip intervals (up dip in mud flow direction) at an insufficient pump rate. The height of 1/3 to 1/2 of the drill pipe diameter could be potentially buried in a cuttings deposit bed, and this results in a hole packed-off or a stuck pipe. A higher rate of penetration can cause insufficient hole cleaning. In this case, control drilling that maintains a reasonable low penetration rate may be effective. Furthermore, borehole breakout may enlarge hole diameter and generate large-sized cuttings. Both of these have negative impacts on hole cleaning, and thus, borehole stability and smooth wellbore trajectory controls should be carefully considered. To clean these holes, frequent bottoms-up circulations were effective at each stand of drilling even if the optimizations of other drilling parameters were limited. The findings also revealed that accumulated cuttings in a tortuous wellbore were trapped in the trough of the hole and that the bed height of locally trapped cuttings in the down-dip intervals could be much higher than that indicated by previous studies.
Robust Completion and Stimulation Design Methodology to Maximize Well Performance for Long Horizontal Laterals in a Giant Off-Shore Field Development
Authors: Al Hosani Fahad , Amin Alaa , Ali Yasser , Al Kiyoumi Ahmed , Sau Rajes , Beckham Richard , Shuchart Chris 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
A giant oil field offshore has been developed to date using vertical and then horizontal wells drilled off-shore from wellhead platform towers. In order to reduce costs reducing the number of wells required to drain the reservoir with improving recovery, further development of the field was planned using extended-reach long horizontal wells with throws greater than 18,000 ft and measured depths greater than 25,000 ft with some wells exceeding 35,000 ft.
This paper will discuss how to reach an integrated robust completion design methodology to maximize performance of these long horizontal wells. The methodology considers a combination of two essential designs; Lower completion design and Stimulation design.
While the key objective of lower completion and stimulation designs has been to connect wells to reservoirs at their best performances with the most effective and economical way, productivity/injectivity from every foot of these long laterals as well as long term performance are the keys to successful well design and reservoir development strategy. The design methodology incorporates several constraints from reservoir such as heterogeneities in permeability, pressure and porosity, and uncertainties in those properties prediction including presence of faults/thief zones. The design methodology also incorporates the objective to be able to perform well surveillance, such as PLTs, as well as manageable installation of lower completion. The paper will give examples of application of this methodology in designing a10,000+ ft long limited-entry liner which facilitates bullhead high pressure – high rate stimulation – high acid concentration in order to place acid across the entire lateral and maximize stimulation effectiveness of every foot of the lateral. The paper will also discuss actual well performances of available long lateral wells along with lessons learned.
Laboratory Scale Studies to Understand the Variation of Fracture Toughness with Acoustic and Other Rock Mechanical Properties
Authors: Talreja Rahul , Kumar Rajeev Ranjan , Subbiah Surej Kumar , Murthy V. M. , Munshi Shri B. 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
One of the main rock mechanical properties required for all design applications is fracture toughness. The fracture toughness values are helpful for simulation of hydraulic-fracture propagation, drill energy requirements, drilling rate prediction, wear rate etc. In this study fracture toughness testing of rock with core based specimens was performed with an emphasis on chevron shaped notches specimen. The same rock sample were then subjected to different small scale rock mechanics laboratory tests to determine various mechanical properties like drilling rate index (DRI), compressional slowness, uniaxial compressive strength and tensile strength of the rock. An outline of the methods used is given in the paper. Based on the data obtain from these tests, correlations are established using regression analysis between fracture toughness values and determined rock mechanical properties. This study provides empirical correlations, which will be helpful in estimation of fracture toughness for sandstones and siltstone.
Tablet-Based Mobile App Software Provides Precise and Instant Bit Selection in the Field
Authors: Roberts Danielle V. , Lee Roger K. , Aldarweesh Ayman M. , Agawani Waleed 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
Hydrocarbons from across the world are being explored every day. Significant effort is spent in optimizing the bit selection programs which may comprise a large number of bit design iterations. A large inefficiency is created because of the nonexistence of a quantitative method of relating these drilling applications and bit designs. This organization launched a new mobile drill-bit selection tool to enable faster, more-scientific, bit-selection decisions in the field.
The tool incorporates breakthrough methods to relate drilling applications and PDC bit designs to a comprehensive set of common quantifiable and measurable behaviors. The methods improve bit selection outcomes by focusing on application requirements and bit performance capabilities instead of traditional methods that focus on bit features such as cutter size, blade count and gauge length. Individuals enter drilling parameters as well as application behaviors that characterize the formation to be drilled. The optimum bit is then selected by a proprietary algoritm. The mobile app can draw on the full database of drill-bit data, and provide technical drilling solutions in a matter of seconds at the touch of a fingertip.
The innovation of this tool is its ability to quantitatively compare drill bits side-by-side with full knowledge of bit behaviors, instead of solely comparing the bit features that lead to those behaviors. With traditional methods, the benefits and tradeoffs of altering bit features were estimated by field personnel using technical intuition and past experience. By using the bit selection app, a quantified and technically justified comparison is achievable by individuals with all levels of experience. Applications can now be efficiently compared to other applications in various geographic locations to drive synergies for bit selections and drilling practices. Now, learnings from one application can be transferred to other bit selections and applications regardless of application type or location. Finally, the behavior methodology of this tool promotes the ease of technical communication between multiple user groups such as geologists, design engineer, field personnel and drilling operators, leading to a faster, more-accurate drilling optimization process.
The tool is the first mobile application in the oil and gas industry that combines historical engineering data with creative digital designs, enables an intuitive user interface, 3D modeling and real-time database search capabilities. Individuals of all levels of expertise have instant access to necessary information to make bit selection easier. The authors will present value-added case studies from the Middle East region.
Unconventional Fracturing Fluids for Unconventional Reservoir Challenges
Authors: Bukovac Tomislav , Akbari Aulia , Gurmen Nihat M. , Mehrotra Nagendra , Alabi Ibrahim , Orellana Roland , Arcano Nelson Suarez 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
To overcome the challenges specific to unconventional reservoirs that are being targeted across the Middle East region a synergy of unconventional technologies is needed. Fracturing fluids are one of the critical components of multi stage proppant fracturing solution when targeting extreme HPHT reservoirs while aiming to preserve freshwater. The objective of this paper is to reveal the performance of unique fracturing fluids that have been recently tailored and applied to tackle tight and unconventional reservoir challenges.
Three very different unconventional: polymer-free, carboxymethyl hydroxypropyl guar (CMHPG) and poly-acrylamide based fracturing fluids are presented in this work. They have been field-tested and recently successfully applied in the tight and unconventional reservoirs of UAE as well as the Middle East and Asia. These fracturing fluids collectively address the full spectrum of existing and future reservoir target bottom-hole temperatures ranging from 50 degF up to 450 degF. The unique chemistry characteristics for each of the fluids will be elaborated together with laboratory test results that will include compatibility, rheology and other qualification tests. Furthermore, results of extensive qualification tests performed to address specific local challenges will also be presented.
All three fracturing fluids were effectively applied leading to treatment success and proving their performance in extreme reservoir temperature, stress or operational environment that demands high-efficiency. Each fluid proved compatibility with used mixing water and reservoir fluids tested. These fracturing fluid types can be continuously mixed simplifying operation, reducing fracturing equipment layout and minimizing waste. All these improvements are critical in an offshore operating environment. Polymer-free and CMHPG based high viscosity fluids are formulated with sea water to minimize environmental impact. Furthermore, these fluids are continuously mixed with seawater addressing the conventional fracturing fluid logistic constraints offshore. These key improvements made massive offshore and multi-stage proppant fracturing treatments technically and economically feasible.
The novel unconventional fracturing fluids elaborated in this paper offer a set of unique technical capabilities that did not exist previously. These three fluids are critical technology enablers and they are part of a multi-disciplinary, integrated technical collaboration project aiming to efficiently and effectively address local complex subsurface conditions and stringent economic requirements of remote offshore operations.
Innovative Approach for Class Certification & FFS Assessment of Spm'S
Authors: Al Shehhi Saif , Al-Sayed Talal A , Al Hammadi Hassan , Al Dhanhani Khalfan , Kallinkil Shammas 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
Offshore Tanker loading buoys,(SBM's) are lifeline of oil and gas business. Periodic inspection and class certification is critical for the integrity assurance of these tanker buoys. However to be in line with class requirements, the mooring chain has to be subjected to dry dock inspection every 5 years. This requires shutting down of buoys, dismantle mooring chain and send to dry-dock for inspection. This also incurs huge cost in hiring barges and resources to carry out these activities.
The whole process become trickier when your buoy is continually loading throughout the year, as in the case of ADMA OPCO's and don't have a spare buoy to offset the loading activities.
To overcome this challenge ADMA in collaboration with classification body DNV introduced advanced inspection technologies and assessment techniques which allowed for in-situ inspection and class certification of the buoys saving huge cost and production loss.
With this approach ADMA was able to carry out detailed fitness for service assessment for tanker buoy in line with our engineering division and generated a comprehensive asset certificate or passport in ADMA OPCO's term highlighting the asset condition, remnant life, mitigations required etc. for Loading Buoy the first time.
Evaluation of Porosity and Permeability in Lower Cretaceous Carbonates in UAE Using NMR Measurements at Laboratory and Reservoir Conditions
Authors: Hassall J. K. , Zakaria A. S. , Shtepani E. 
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Objectives
The objective of this paper is to calibrate porosity and permeability derived from NMR logs to core measurements and thus allow improved porosity and permeability prediction from new and historic NMR logs. Permeability, and to a lesser extent porosity, are the most important parameters in determining the potential production of a reservoir. Measuring these parameters accurately is challenging in carbonate formations due to heterogeneity and the wide variety of pore classes, such as interparticle porosity, moldic porosity, vuggy porosity, and microporosity. Traditional density-neutron and sonic tools used to measure the porosity are strongly dependent on lithology which might yield incorrect porosity measurements. NMR logs, while largely independent of matrix properties, can potentially underestimate microporosity. No wireline tool is capable of continuous permeability logging.

Methods
In this study, we provide an assessment of NMR measurements at laboratory and reservoir conditions to allow improved estimation of porosity and permeability. The formation under investigation is largely limestone, with negligible dolomite or clay – but has a large range of pore structures. Several samples from different rock types were selected for this study. These were investigated with computed tomography scanning, thin section analysis, and high pressure mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP) tests. NMR T1 and T2 measurements on fully formation water saturated samples were then conducted at laboratory and reservoir conditions. Finally, to define the bound and free water, and determine appropriate T2cutoff(s) for each rock type, samples were desaturated to irreducible water saturation (Swi) using a centrifuge technique, followed by NMR T1 and T2 measurements at Swi at reservoir conditions. Additionally, the laboratory NMR measurements are compared to wireline log NMR measurements at the same depths.

Results
Pore size distributions from NMR measurement agree well with those derived from MICP tests. The NMR measurements on desaturated samples showed that Swi and the corresponding T2cutoff vary from sample to sample. Possible controls on this will be discussed. The results from this study showed that T1 measurements confirm T2 responses: both are strongly dependent on temperature, but less dependent on pressure.

Novel Information
A strong 1 to 1 correlation between helium porosity, φHE and NMR porosity, φNMR was observed demonstrating that in this formation under recording of microporosity is not an issue. Based on NMR data, permeabilities were calculated using both the Coates and SDR models. It was found that the Coates model gives good agreement with permeabilities measured on core plugs by the standard laboratory techniques.
Crude Oil Storage Tanks Enhancement and Life Extension: Advanced Simulation and Case Study
Authors: Al Omari A. M. , Awda H. , Al Sayed T. , Toubar A. , Terchoun S. 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
The importance of asset integrity assurance of strategical equipment such as crude oil storage tanks (COS Tanks) is attributed to the possible impact on operation interruption, safety hazards, and cost of maintenance. This paper studies how the cyclic loading on tank shell affects tank integrity and tank life extension. This research study describes a case study of one million barrel capacity crude oil storage tank to identify the root cause of the non-uniform corrosion rates and material loss in tank shell. The tank is constructed from carbon steel material and experienced severe material losses in specific areas resulted to tank shell perforation and leak.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation was conducted to study the anticipated movement of a floating roof of one million barrel capacity COS Tank under the routine tank operation. The pressure applied on floating roof due to fluid movement and the applied cyclic forces on guide pole were calculated. The cyclic forces acting on the guide pole were fused in 3D Non-linear finite element analysis (FEA) using ANSYS software in order to understand the influence of COS Tank filling and emptying cyclic process on tank structural integrity. The FEA model indicated the areas in the tank were high stresses and cyclic stresses develop during tank operation. The results of the FEA model were compared with a robotic ultrasonic testing (UT) data conducted on tank shell to correlate the locations of cyclic stresses to the tank shell corrosion mapping profile. The FEM analysis focuses on the stress distribution in tank shell, the locations of cyclic stresses, and the susceptible areas in tank shell for corrosion fatigue damage. The FEA results and corrosion mapping inspection results were in good agreement.
The current study identifies a hidden risk on crude oil storage tanks integrity, remnant life and fitness for service. The corrosion fatigue phenomenon due to the sour environment and cyclic loading on tank shell expedites corrosion rates and reduce COS tank operation life.
Better Formation Fluid Characterization with a Cost Effective Solution; Fluid Sampling-While-Drilling: Case Histories from UAE
Authors: Smith S. , Elarouci F. , Khairy H. , Serry M. A. , Ahmad Fazeel , Al-Feky M. H. , Faisal M. , Khan A. H. , Al Reyami M. M. , Al Kilani Smeer 
Published: November 2016

Abstract
This paper presents the first new technology applications of reservoir fluid characterization and sampling while drilling in the United Arab Emirates. Four case histories provide details of this technology in the last two years, and the value added to the assets operating in different targeted reservoirs.
Cost and rig-time optimization demands has motivated operators to utilize the fluid analysis and sampling tool designed for LWD to reach formation targets before they have been exposed to long period of invasion. This technology provides pressure testing, real-time in-situ measurements of formation fluid properties and downhole capture and retrieval of fluid samples. The applications proved valuable in obtaining required formation data and reducing operational time, cost and associated risks.
Results of this technology in the UAE were evidenced in the following applications: An offshore field had original formation water with high salinity that, over time, mixed with low salinity injection water which affects water saturation log interpretation. The objective was to collect representative water from the formation (either original formation water or injection water) and this was complicated by water-based mud filtrate with its own unique salinity. Samples from three depths were collected and confirmed by laboratory analysis to be representative formation water. The refractive index provided a clear way of discriminating the water-based mud filtrate from formation water.A field with known condensate was scheduled for fluid sampling to check for injection gas break-through. LWD sampling was used because of the high mobility of the gas and condensate. Seven successful samples were collected and subsequent lab analysis confirmed condensate in the reservoir.Pressure testing and sampling while drilling was performed in a heterogeneous carbonate reservoir. A valid oil gradient was detected after completing several good pressure tests in a short period after drilling. The formation fluid pump-out was initiated to identify and collect oil and water samples that helped in determining an accurate oil-water contact.A fluid sampling operation was performed in a highly deviated offshore well to provide the asset an operational alternative to a complex pipe-conveyed wireline logging operation. The pump-out started shortly after drilling to limit invasion. Five samples were obtained and brought to surface to confirm the real time fluid identification. The case will discuss the challenges and complication of the operation in a highly deviated well crossing several reservoirs.
A review of the presented cases helps demonstrate LWD sampling technology as a successful method in the Middle East for characterizing downhole fluid, supporting real-time decision making, minimizing rig time, cost and associated operational risks.