bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving Governance of Integrated Reservoir and Information Management Leveraging Business Process Management and Workflow Automation
Authors: Escorcia Alvaro , Mohan Richard , Saputelli Luigi 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
This paper illustrates strategies, methods, and techniques that have been successfully utilized to model and deploy collaborative solutions to help teams and individuals within and across companies execute business processes efficiently and consistently, whilst ensuring adherence to norms, standards and agreed guidelines for the benefits of shareholders and contractual parties. Cases are presented related to Integrated Reservoir Management, E&P Technical Information Management, and Surface Rights Management for O&G operations. Whilst some contextual aspects of information technology are mentioned in this paper, the focus rather lies in the aspects of value delivery through process governance, workflow automation efficiencies, process improvement, and reduction of time to learn how things must be done on a day to day basis by newcomers.
Business process management (BPM) is a technique that brings efficiency and effectiveness to the execution of processes. Rather than replacing big systems, companies are looking at technologies that facilitate implementing operating processes on a workflow orchestration platform that establishes a controlled environment to execute defined activities efficiently. The convergence of business process modeling, business rules engines, process performance monitoring and human workflows has led to adoption of integrated systems leveraging BPM platform solutions.
Wide market availability of BPM platform solutions makes possible chosing from diverse types of architecture, functionality, usability and integration capabilities to meet the information management requirements of an operating company. However, adherence to Business Process Modelling Notation (BPMN) and to data and integration standards, is critical to balance governance of processes with agility and flexibility to adapt workflows, especially in companies that require to scale-up workflows initially created for the needs of one functional or organizational area across and into others. Using standards is critical in cases where collaborative workflows require integration and interaction with data, calculations, and transactions performed in existing back office and/or Petrotechnical systems.
Successful BPM implementations are those that become adopted by business users and create incremental value. This requires a systematic approach to process improvement opportunity identification, creating realistic business cases, defining and tracking process performance metrics, communicating value and strategic alignment lead by management, and effective management of change.
A Meta-Data Framework for Transparency in Rate of Penetration Calculations
Authors: Goncalves Kyle , Ashok Pradeepkumar , Cavanaugh Martin , Macpherson John , Behounek Michael , Nelson Brian 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Data exchanges between different electronic data recorder (EDR) systems and personnel occur on a regular basis in a well drilling operation. A significant portion of this data is derived; i.e., calculated or manipulated after sensor measurements. Currently, derived data calculations are poorly documented; therefore, the usefulness of this data diminishes through data transfer. The objective of this work is to define a meta-data framework for derived data.
In this paper, we focus our efforts on one derived data channel, the rate of penetration (ROP) and identify the meta-data required to fully understand the values transferred to the end user. We start by identifying the different types of ROP and document the calculation procedure for each type. Part of the meta-data that needs to be captured involves data transformations that occur when this data stream is moved from one EDR to the next. We interviewed various EDR providers in an attempt to understand their current process.
The different types of ROP calculations and their use in different types of drilling performance analysis are described in this paper. The calculation procedures were implemented and tested on an operator's data aggregation system. This effort also documents different EDR systems and how they handle sensed data required for ROP calculations. A meta-data framework is able to capture not just the calculation used, but also data transformations that occur as data hops from one EDR system to the next. Different data transfer protocols such as WITS0, WITSML, and OPC/UA necessitates a broad meta-data framework. While much of the meta-data can be embedded in the data transfer channel itself, a document describing all relevant meta-data is equally effective in communicating the information. Lastly, the meta-data framework developed here can also be applied to other forms of derived data (such as Hole depth, Bit Depth, WOB, etc.).
This meta-data framework improves the transparency by providing guidelines to data aggregation providers on the type of information that should be supplied to end users. It also provides insights into how data gets transformed from its point of origin (sensor) to its point of consumption. Finally, it also documents the various type of ROPs and their appropriateness for the analysis that is performed using them.
Revisiting Thomson Equation for Accurate Modeling of Pore Scale Thermodynamics of Hydrocarbon Solvents
Authors: Al-Kindi Ilyas , Babadagli Tayfun 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
As stated by the classical Thomson equation, the pore scale thermodynamics of solvent is different from bulk conditions being critically controlled by capillary characteristics. This equation shows that the boiling points decrease remarkably as the pore size and interfacial tension become smaller. This paper investigates this phenomenon for hydrocarbon solvents experimentally and compares the results with the values obtained from the Thomson equation to test its applicability in modelling heavy-oil recovery by solvents under non-isothermal conditions. As an initial step, the boiling temperature of different single component solvents (heptane and decane) was measured by saturating Hele-Shaw type cells with variable apertures (ranging from 0.04 mm to 5 mm) and monitoring the boiling process. One experiment was run with a thickness of 12 mm to represent the bulk case. As the aperture (pore size) became smaller, the boiling point temperature decreased. For example, the measured boiling temperatures of heptane and decane were approximately 57.7°C and 107.4°C for the aperture values less than 0.15 mm, which were considerably lower than the "bulk" values (around 40%). In the next step, the same experiments were repeated using micromodels representing porous media. The micromodel (grain diameter of 0.15 mm and a pore throat of 0.075 mm) was designed with uniform properties (constant grain diameter and pore throat). By using the Thomson equation, the boiling points of the selected liquids were mathematically computed and compared with the experimental results from Hele-Shaw experiments.
Case Study: Multirate Multizone Production Logging and Testing Provides Real-Time Reservoir Insight for Stimulation Treatment Optimization in Deepwater GOM
Authors: Khan Waqar , Azari Mehdi , Hamza Farrukh , Hadibeik Hamid , Ramakrishna Sandeep 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
In a deepwater environment, testing of wells can be an expensive process coupled with safety concerns. Properly characterizing a well has a significant impact on asset management. Wells are routinely stimulated to remove formation damage, but subsequent testing to determine the skin after stimulation is rarely performed. This paper discusses a case study where multirate multizone (MRMZ) pressure-transient testing and production logging was performed in a deepwater well in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) to determine the effectiveness of the stimulation treatment.
MRMZ production logging was performed across the targeted pay intervals. The process was to flow the well at three different flow rates followed by a shut-in period. During these different rates, production logging was performed by three up and three down passes at each choke setting, followed by a stationary measurement at a predetermined depth for 10 to 15 minutes. Following the last production logging run, the tool was parked between the two pay zones, and the well was shut in for a pressure buildup until radial flow was fully established. After that, the tool performed the final routine production logging passes while the well was still shut in.
Although the oil production almost doubled after the initial stimulation treatment with xylene, the high skin observed in real time from the MRMZ pressure-transient analysis prompted the operator to change the formation damage removal program and stimulate with hydrochloric acid (HCl) by coiled tubing rather than only xylene. This resulted in an immediate fourfold improvement of productivity index with a potential of further doubling.
MRMZ testing is a relatively low-risk, low-cost method for acquiring valuable formation data. This paper additionallydiscusses best practices that should be performed while attempting MRMZ and how deviating from these practices can lead to increased uncertainty in the acquired data.
Characterization of Reservoir Heterogeneity for SAGD and ES-SAGD: Under What Type of Heterogeneity is ES-SAGD More Likely to Lower SOR?
Authors: Venkat Venkatramani Arun , Okuno Ryosuke 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Expanding-solvent steam-assisted gravity drainage (ES-SAGD) is a potential method to reduce steam-oil ratio (SOR) of SAGD, which is a critical concern especially for highly-heterogeneous reservoirs. The main objective of this research is to investigate the flow characteristics of heterogeneous reservoirs in which solvent is more likely to lower SOR of SAGD.
SAGD and ES-SAGD with normal hexane are simulated for fifty geostatistical realizations consisting of clean sand and shale, qualitatively representative of the middle member of the McMurray formation. Thermodynamic models are calibrated with experimental phase behavior data for reliable comparison between SAGD and ES-SAGD, including the water solubility in oil at elevated temperatures.
Results show that the SOR reduction by steam-solvent coinjection is positively correlated with the increase in SAGD's SOR due to heterogeneity. Enhancement of bitumen flow by dilution is more important for lowering SOR for those reservoirs in which the permeability variation makes slow-flow regions during SAGD.
The key observation of simulation results from a statistical standpoint is that a larger amount of bitumen tends to be diluted by solvent in those reservoirs for which SAGD exhibits slow production of bitumen. Then, the observed results are analyzed by use of SAGD analytical equations that clarify several influential factors for bitumen flow beyond the edge of a steam chamber. It is shown that dilution of bitumen by solvent in steam-solvent coinjection becomes more significant where flow barriers limit the local bitumen flow under SAGD even at high temperatures. In such slow-flow regions, the bitumen flow rate can be substantially increased by accumulation of solvent in ES-SAGD, which reduces the oleic-phase viscosity and increases the oleic-phase saturation and, therefore, relative permeability. Solvent accumulation within a steam chamber can also reduce thermal losses because of lower operating-chamber temperatures.
Evaluation of Field and Laboratory Acoustic Sand Monitor Data in Multiphase Flow Production
Authors: McLaury B. S. , Shirazi S. A. 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Sand particles may be detached from reservoirs and be produced during oil and gas production. Many producers utilize sand prevention methods such as gravel packs and sand screens, but these methods may not be 100% effective in sand exclusion and small particles can still pass through. Small sand particles can also plug a portion of sand screens and promote higher velocity particles passing through other portions causing failure of sand screens. One of the attractive methods for sand detection is utilizing commercially available acoustic sand monitors that clamp to the outside of pipe wall and presumably detect noise from sand impact with the pipe wall. Operators are very interested in these monitors, but the effectiveness of these monitors to detect and distinguish sand impact noise from the background flow noise in multiphase flow is questionable. The objective of this work is to utilize laboratory and field data to determine threshold sand rates that these acoustic detectors can effectively detect. Additionally, the paper presents a novel method for calibration of the monitors that can extend the working range of these acoustic monitors to production rates and flow conditions beyond which the monitor was originally calibrated.
Technical Potential: A Highly Effective Tool for National Oil Companies to Drive and Manage Business Plans – A Real Case Study at PETRONAS Malaysia
Authors: Gupta Vipin Prakash , Dwivedi Satyajit , Roslan Razeif B. , Masoudi Rahim , Razali W. Aziz 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Sound business decisions require robust production forecasts whose uncertainties are quantified by an assessment of market expectations. While this applies to all E&P ventures, it is much more critical and relevant to National Oil Companies (NOCs) since they depend upon Production Sharing/Operating Contractors (PSCs/PACs) to deliver the business goals. It is critical to continuously improve processes in complex systems to enable a probabilistic range of performance forecasts. Data-driven methodologies support these business value propositions.
Technical Potential (TP) forms the basis for future expectation by defining what is achievable, and thus highlights the gap between possible performance and what is realized regarding hydrocarbon production. This knowledge transforms into initiatives that drive the processes for minimizing the gap. Assessment and forecast of TP workflows provide the appropriate tools for NOCs for driving the operator contractors towards better performance targets. PETRONAS in the past year has seen some clear, tangible benefits from the exercise.
However, the subject is tricky and the path to success, a potential minefield not only due to data frequency and metering issues that are inherent in production well testing but also the fact that TP forecast does not exactly follow the same set of rules as production. Soft-computing models based on data-driven analytics were used to resolve the issues, and a MAPE average of less than 20 was achieved for 80% of the producing assets. Data from a total of 74 producing fields in South East Asia was used to train and optimize data-driven algorithms.
The data-driven forecasts capture the trends, and temporal relationships surfaced through the patterns hidden in the well and reservoir historical data. Traditional type curve fitting and empirical DCA only provide a deterministic forecast, but a probabilistic data-driven methodology offers some key advantages: (1) A range instead of an absolute number and (2) Identification of time-series periods that focus on high and low performance periods optimizing business decision cycles.
We propose a hybrid approach where the traditional type curve fitting and DCA analysis results can act as input data points to a data-enriched probabilistic time-series analysis. The value of DCA cannot be denied as a check. However, the current method will certainly enhance the value tremendously when used in conjunction with DCA.
Blind test workflows or what-if scenarios, a favorite of simulation engineers, to verify the accuracy of the forecast was implemented to verify the performance of the data-driven analytical models.
The paper introduces the relevance of TP methodologies and defines the key components of the production system, their relationships, measurement entities and methods of calculation. It then details the analytical methods for TP forecasts.
Improved Monitoring System for Heavy Oil SAGD Wells
Authors: Baldwin Christopher 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the development of fiber optic sensing for SAGD applications including a review of more than 10 years of work in development and field applications in Western Canada. Development of a fiber optic monitoring system to withstand the harsh environments experienced in the SAGD application requires consideration of the materials used to protect the downhole optical fiber, the chemistry of the downhole optical fiber, the basic optical fiber sensing technology implemented, and the optical interrogator functionality. Aspects covering corrosion of materials, hydrogen darkening, and system performance for different monitoring applications will be explored. Design and technical information will be provided along with certain case histories providing the applications and use of downhole fiber optics sensing for the SAGD applications including steamflood monitoring, sub-cool monitoring, and well integrity monitoring. Dealing with a harsh environment experienced downhole in the Western Canada SAGD applications including temperatures exceeding 230° C in high hydrogen environments has meant that the fiber optic sensing technologies have had to adapt and improve to be suitable to function reliably. Various technologies have been implemented throughout the previous 10 to 15 years, from Raman scattering based DTS systems to highly multiplexed Bragg grating based thermal monitoring systems. Multiple optical PT gauges have been designed and implemented. These include Fabry-Perot based systems as well as the Bragg grating based PT gauges. This paper will provide much-needed information to practicing engineers in the field of downhole reservoir monitor introducing them to concepts such as multi-point fiber Bragg grating based thermal monitoring and reliability of the monitoring systems. Information provided in this paper is applicable beyond the SAGD applications. The fiber optic monitoring systems may also be used for intelligent wells, subsea wells, and unconventional wells.
The Origin and Mechanism of Severe Stick-Slip
Authors: Shen Yuelin , Zhang Zhengxin , Zhao Jie , Chen Wei , Hamzah Mohammad , Harmer Richard , Downton Geoff 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
A drill bit is subjected to rotational speed variation during drilling, ranging from minor rotational speed oscillations to severe speed variation, including stuck phase. The severe speed variation, referred to as stick-slip, is known to be a major source of problems, such as fatigue failures, bit wear, and poor drilling rates. This paper will provide new insight into the mechanisms that drive severe stick-slip based on continuous high-frequency downhole measurements and 3D transient dynamic drilling simulation.
To understand the mechanism of severe stick-slip, a series of drilling tests were conducted at a full-scale drilling test facility. An advanced downhole measurement tool was placed in the bottom hole assembly (BHA) to record three-axis shock and vibration, RPM, bending moment, downhole weight on bit (DWOB), downhole torque (DTOR) and internal and annular pressure at high frequency. The drilling system was then modeled on a 3D transient drilling simulation platform, including detailed bit-rock interaction based on single-cutter tests, the exact BHA, and the wellbore geometry.
The downhole recorded data showed clear coupling of severe stick-slip, axial load, and bending moment conditions. Interesting patterns observed between RPM, DWOB, DTOR, and bending moment will be presented in detail. The recorded severe stick-slip condition was successfully reproduced by 3D transient dynamic simulation, and the torque, axial load, and bending moment variations along the BHA revealed coupling between torsional, axial, and lateral motions of the drilling system from simulation. Bit-rock interaction and drillstring-wellbore contact are the drivers supporting the coupling. It was found that the coupling of three motions of the drilling system is the most reasonable explanation to the self-sustained severe stick-slip condition. This mechanism can explain the field observed stick-slip trend (i.e., the higher WOB and lower RPM tend to increase the risk of severe stick-slip tendency). Downhole measurements and transient 3D dynamic simulation of the entire drilling system are essential to fully understand this mechanism.
Understanding the stick-slip process opens additional opportunities for controlling severe stick-slip. Because the stick-slip mechanism is driven by the coupling of three motions, it is possible to mitigate this condition by breaking the coupling mechanism. For example, a shock sub possibly will reduce the severity of axial coupling due to added axial compliance. Simulation shows breaking the mechanism could reduce the severity of stick-slip. The study being reported in this paper also proved the validity of applying advanced 3D transient dynamic model to obtain a better understanding of drilling system behavior. Drilling simulation might well be an effective way to plan a drilling system and drilling parameters.
Bridging The Gap Between Subsurface and Surface Disciplines - A Tool for The Modern Facilities Engineer
Authors: Cristea Z. , Cristea T. 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
This paper presents an unbiased Stochastic Workflow (SW), data driven, where surface and subsurface uncertainties are accounted for and their impact on Facilities design and operational decisions quantified. Unlike the traditional approach in Facilities design where typically the ‘most conservative values' are used as design input variables, the proposed workflow accounts for lifecycle variability and correlations of relevant input data. The workflow enables superior risk management and resources allocation. An example is provided, where the traditional Facilities design outcomes are compared with the Stochastic Workflow findings.
Deterministic Models are established to account for the dependencies between design input variables (Static Variables, i.e. bottom hole pressure and temperature) and the desired objective (Static Results, i.e. chemical injection rate). However, in real life situations, the analyzed variables change due to subsurface and surface events with different levels of uncertainty (i.e. condensate banking, lean gas injection, water breakthrough). Stochastic algorithms are used to create Probability Distribution Functions (PDF) for all analyzed design input variables (Stochastic Variables). Stochastic Algorithms are then applied on the Deterministic Model, sampling from the previously defined probability distributions. Stochastic Results are assembled into insightful charts and used to analyze the most relevant variables and their correlations affecting the model objectives.
The workflow provides an objective quantification of risks and uncertainties impacting the design and operation of the analyzed system. The deterministic design approach in the example permits for risk to be still present in 11% of cases and resources to be wasted in 77% of cases. In the revised design, based on the Stochastic Workflow, the risk and wastage are reduced to less than 1%. The associated OPEX component is reduced from USD 12 mln to USD 8 mln (-33%), expressed in Present Value terms.
This paper contributes to the efforts of bridging the gap between subsurface and surface disciplines, and demonstrates the utility of integrated approach in Facilities planning, where both subsurface and surface uncertainties are accounted for. This approach contributes to the elimination of subjective decision biases (Waring, 2017), enabling superior Project and Asset Management. The proposed Stochastic Workflow is scalable and transferable, and suited to collaborative, multidisciplinary project and asset teams.
Additional benefits of the Stochastic Workflow, such as improved Well and Reservoir Management (Virtual PLT) or increased system availability, are also mentioned in the paper.