bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Response of CO2 Diffusion to Macro- and Microporosity in Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Yibing Yu , Moh'd M Amro 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
Carbonate reservoirs are known for complexity to oil recovery industry, one reason is the dual-porosity pore system. In macroporosity regions where pores are mostly effective for fluid flow and therefore viscous flow will play a role in oil extraction, while in microporosity regions contribution of pores to permeability is very limited and results in a large amount of residual oil entrapment. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the response characteristics of diffusion to porosity (include percent fraction and pore size ratio of macro- and microporosity) and permeability. Then with the help of permeability to evaluate the efficiency of CO2 diffusion for oil extraction from different porosity composition core plugs.
In order to achieve this objective, we use integrated carbonate core samples by pore structure characterization to study the feasibility of diffusion macro- and micropore regions. First, SEM and MICP experiments were introduced to characterize the bimodal pore systems, these results were combined with permeability measurement values as basic parameters for evaluation. Then the response characteristics of CO2 diffusion to macro- and microporosity will be described by the performance of CO2 injection for oil recovery with dual porosity carbonates.
With the result the first observation was the dual effect of macroporosity that it lowers the resistance for fluid flow and meanwhile reduces the exposure duration for CO2 to diffuse into the microporsoity regions. Furthermore, percent fraction, tortuosity and ratio of pore size between macro- and microporosity are critical parameters for CO2 diffusion. Also with different dual porosity component core plugs, various ultimate oil recoveries were acquired and all recovery curves were divided into two different parts that contributed by viscous flow and diffusion respectively. Through comparison the different diffusion performance in various dual porosity core plugs, response characteristics of CO2 diffusion to macro- and microporosity were finally concluded.
Acquire the knowledge of CO2 diffusion response characteristics to macro- and microporosity makes oil extraction from microporosity regions which have limited contribution to permeability possible. It shows an optimistic prospect of oil recovery by diffusion mechanism which ever been neglected and provides one more option for EOR method design in low permeable reservoirs. In addition, suggestion will be presented to extract oil effectively using CO2 injection in case of high percent fraction of microporosity reservoirs.
Improving Drilling Performance in North Kuwait by Implementing DEO Process
Authors: Armenta Miguel , Hii King-Kai , Hazarika Raju , Al-Foudari Saud Jumah , Al-Mohailan Mohannad , Debroy Amalendu 
Published: October 2015

AbstractDrilling in North Kuwait presents significant challenges due to the hard rock in the overburden that needs to be drilled in large hole sizes en route to the targeted deep Jurassic reservoirs. A project was taken up in order to improve the drilling performance (especially Rate of Penetration, ROP) thought the hard layers located in three upper sections of the wells (28,″ 22″ and 16″) by implementing the "Drilling Efficiency Optimization" (DEO) methodology. DEO is an overall process to improve drilling performance by increasing ROP and bit footage through the utilization of efficient drilling practices throughout the planning, execution, and post-drilling phases.This paper describes the strategies, practices and "Driller Roadmaps" that were developed to improve ROP and drilled footage on the three sections of interest. The drilling parameters and results from three trials implementing the proposed improvements are also included. Field data demonstrates that by optimizing BHA (Bottom-Hole Assembly) design, bit hydraulics and drilling parameters through DEO process, the ROP was improved by over 70% on average in the three hole sections in which the trials were conducted. Also, due to the ROP improvement and longer bit run durations, a total of 17 rig days was saved. One bit established a new record for the longest 22″ TCI bit run ever achieved in North Kuwait (total footage: 2883 ft). Furthermore, the entire 16″ section was drilled using only two PDC bits, for the first time ever.The paper also provides recommendations on the next steps in DEO implementation to further improve drilling performance in North Kuwait wells. The insights provided in this paper will assist KOC in their endeavours to improve the overall drilling performance in their operations, especially drilling hard rock. The lessons learned have led to best practices being developed for the North Kuwait wells and serve as a valuable benchmark for projects located in the vicinity.
Facies Analysis and Permeability Estimation In Late Cretaceous Giant Carbonate Reservoir Using LWD Technology, A Case Study in Sabriyah Field, North Kuwait
Authors: Ibrahim H.. , Elsherif A.. , Krafft J.. 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
Sabriya Mauddud original development plan was based on an inverted 9 spot pattern to produce oil from multi carbonate reservoir layers. Recently, Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) implemented a paradigm shift to an intensive campaign for drilling horizontal wells in the Mauddud Formation in North Kuwait. The lateral section extended for a long interval penetrating different facies of the Maudud carbonate reservoir. The need for advanced formation evaluation was highlighted as critical where the complex pore structure will play a big role in fluid mobility. Formation mobility in carbonate reservoirs has been always a challenge in any formation evaluation. The Sabriya Mauddud Formation is a ramp system, ranging from shallow restricted and barrier shoal / rudist buildup to outer ramp sedimentation. Mauddud carbonate is divided into two parts, a lower (Maj-MaG/F), belongs to outer to middle ramp dominated with intermittent influxes of Burgan delta shoreface sandstone sediments. The upper Mauddud (MaF to MaA) is inner ramp, barrier shoal / rudist build up and shallow restricted Packstone / Grainstone facies. The best reservoir quality is in the inner / middle ramp and barrier shoal / rudist build-up facies of MaE, MaD, MaC and MaB. The current strategy in Mauddud development plans is to produce high (MaB/MaC) and inject low (MaE/MaD).
The LWD resistivity was used in this field to measure resistivity (Laterolog type) to calculate water saturation. In addition, due to the fact that LWD tools measure while rotating, several resistivity images with different depths of investigation were also available in real time and recorded mode.
In this case, the LWD resistivity imaging was used to study azimuthal formation porosity distribution in order to quantify the different porosity portions (Primary / Secondary). Following that, an empirical equation was used to determine formation permeability profile. This qualitative profile is calibrated to the formation pressure / mobility with high vertical resolution to enhance permeability calculations compared to derived permeability from standard open-hole logs.
Facies determination were obtained based on porosity spectrum, amount of secondary porosity combined with relevant logging results using neural network technique. This is significant to optimize well placement in the best reservoir rock types (grainstones, rudist build up and packstones). This has been proved as successful technique for horizontal well ICD completion compartmentalization design.
Tandem ESP-Packer Dumpflood Completion Application in North Kuwait Field - A Successful Alternative to Conventional Encapsulated ESP systems - Case Study
Authors: Al-Hajeri Nasser , Anthony Elred 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
Dumpflooding from a strong Aquifer to support pressure to another depletion-drive reservoir is not new to the oil industry, neither to the region. In cases where the natural Aquifer pressure is insufficient to deliver adequate volumes to meet pressure support requirements, or the Injjectivity of the target reservoir is relatively low, artificial lift is required. This was the case in the North Kuwait Asset where Injectivity was poor owing to the relatively low natural fracture density of the Carbonate reservoir being flooded.
Since the conventional encapsulated (POD) systems required one (1) seal-bore packer, one (1) encapsulated ESP system, and one (1) ESP-packer, it was decided to test an alternate and simpler system that required only two (2) ESP packers that would achieve the same result of the POD system.
Deployment of this new tandem-ESP-packer system proved less complex and required less rig time than the encapsulated ESP system. Both packers were set simultaneously in one operation with the ESP function test to surface-pit giving excellent results. After opening the SSD's, the ESP operating parameters, measured at surface, indicated optimum pump performance at expected injection rates.
The Tandem-ESP-Packer Dumpflood completion system provides fewer sealing interfaces than the conventional encapsulated ESP system, and therefore fewer opportunities for leaks. Additionally, it affords a very simple one-trip system for less complex deployment, and retrieval, when necessary. This alternate system also provides easily-deployed, immediate pressure support in areas of the reservoir/field while awaiting the installation and commissioning of major surface Injection facilities.
Energy Conservation and Technical Innovation in Process Industry
Authors: Sabapathi Kanagasabai Rathina , Rajagopalan Karthik 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
It is important to optimize energy conservation measures in new projects in process industry. Integration of new plant with existing infrastructure is the key in energy conservation measures. New technologies like Cogeneration and Kalina Technologies are the most suitable technologies to be considered in design phase for energy optimization.
KNPC has recently commissioned a new gas plant LPG Train-4. Various energy conservation ideas are commissioned during start-up as listed below. Gas Turbine Inlet Air CoolingLow Temperature Energy ConversionCommissioning of Waste Heat Boilers to extract heat from Gas Turbine exhaust gas and using the steam as heating medium in column reboilers to achieve enhanced thermal efficiencyRecovery of heat from Spent Hot Regeneration Gas in the Regeneration systemCommissioning of control system to operate air fin-fans based on temperatureCommissioning of Debutaniser side reboilers to extract heat from Compressor discharge gas and effectively saving steam consumptionCooling Feed gas compressor discharge using Demethaniser bottom fluidVSD Motor applicationBoiler Feed water Preheat
These technical innovations are implemented in LPG Train-4 to achieve energy conservation.
Successful Proactive Geo-steering in Clastic Reservoir of Greater Burgan Field
Authors: Bahman Hussasin Ali , Hajeyya Abdullah Khalid , Al-Zankawi Omran , Mukherjee Pradip Kumar , Al-Sabea Salem Hamad , Mohammed Ali Farida 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
Geo-steering is a very critical part of today's field development economics, our production targets are getting more complex, thinner oil columns, which need more complex geo-steering, continual improvement needed in People, technology and processes. Drilling a well at an angle other than vertical can obtain more information by hitting the production targets and stimulate reservoirs in ways that cannot be achieved with a simple vertical well which became a valuable ability in oil business. To augment this aspect Kuwait Oil Company has established Geo-steering Center (Fig-1) which has become the hub for decision making while the well is getting drilled for landing at top of reservoir or lateral is being drilled (Fig-2).
The establishment of Geo-steering control Room in FD (S&EK) is an outcome because of constant supervision and direct guidance by manager of Field Development South and East Kuwait, which added a new dimension to drilling the modern horizontal wells in the Greater Burgan Field. The team of Geologists of FD (S&EK) in this collaboration center ensures that horizontal wells are steered correctly and safely to their final targets.
The Geo-steering center can be operated 24 hours a day if require. Each geologist may be responsible for as many as 3 wells in different fields (BG, MG & AH) and different reservoirs. Like driving, geo-steering requires constant attention and dedication all the time. The center recently moved into a new and expanded facility that is equipped with the latest in visualization, communication and computer technology in order to properly place and geologically navigate us with many complex horizontal wells path in Greater Burgan field. Geo-steering horizontal wells can be done remotely from the center, with data coming into the center from more than one well at any given time. For every well, Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) sensors near the drill bit send information about the Lithology and directional survey of the well to the control unit at the rig from where data is then transmitted by satellite to the geo-steering center. The team developed software instantly can load the data so geologists can see on their workstations the LWD and trajectory data to determine where the drill bit is in relation to the drilling plan and the reservoir target.
InSar Monitoring In Heavy Oil Operations
Authors: Del Conte S.. , Cespa S.. , Rucci A.. , Ferretti A.. 
Published: October 2015

AbstractSAR Interfeometry (InSAR) provides high precision ground displacement measurements remotely, using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images acquired from satellites.Thanks to its effective provision of extensive information over wide areas with high acquisition frequency, InSAR monitoring is used routinely in the management of numbers of Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) projects. These include heavy oil Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS), Steam Flooding (SF) and Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) in Alberta and California.Steam injection recovery is generally operated in shallow reservoirs with low caprock thickness, where measuring the surface effects of pressure variations at depth is extremely useful to assess steam chest expansion and enhance safety. InSAR monitoring provides low-cost effective measurements over large areas and is capable of highlighting zones of excessive pressure or subsidence, as well as to control the integrity and safety of operations and infrastructures.This paper presents an overview of InSAR technologies and their recent enhancements. Some examples of InSAR application in EOR heavy oil projects are reported in order to highlight the advantages offered by these monitoring techniques in reservoir management and recovery optimization.
Discrete Fracture Network Models in Support of Drilling Activities in North Kuwait Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Richard P.. , Pattnaik C.. , Al Ajmi N.. , Kidambi V.. , Narhari R.. , LeVarlet X.. , Guit F.. , Dashti Q.. 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
The North Kuwait Carbonate (NKJG) reservoirs are currently under development by KOC (Kuwait Oil Company). The appraisal and development of the NKJG offer challenges such as lateral variations in reservoir quality, tight to very tight reservoirs and natural fracturing to a varying degree spatially. The presence of open, connected fractures is one of the key elements to achieve a successful development. Also, the presence of fracture corridors increase the risk associated with drilling. Numerous fracture modelling studies have been supporting both appraisal and development strategies of the fields. This paper illustrates how small scale detailed DFN (Discrete Fracture Network) can support the planning and drilling activities of future appraisal wells. A series of detailed DFN models has been built around existing wells. The DFN models are based on a thorough structural understanding, detailed fracture characterization using bore-hole image (BHI) and core data around the wells of interests. In addition to the fracture characterization work, mechanical stratigraphy has been elaborated using E-facies and geomechanical logs. Fracture connectivity analysis has been carried out to calibrate the DFNs to the static and dynamic well data. Scenarios of DFN models can now be used to communicate with drilling in order to illustrate the potential fracture corridors distribution in the sub-surface.
Paper Innovative Technology to De-sulfate Sea Water or Brine for the KOC Northern Kuwait Oil Fields
Authors: Al-Maheimid Imad Ahmed , Al-Jasmi Ahmad Khaled , Al-Azmi Abdulla , Al-Hashemi Ahmed Abdulnabi 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
Sea water contains sulfate and formation water contains barium and strontium, if the sea water injected in oil fields reservoirs then the result is the potential for significant barium and strontium sulfate scaling and deposit & possible of reservoir souring due to SRB, s activity.
Scale deposition is a common problem in sea water injection systems, the type and severity of scaling varying between fields.
Sulfate scale formation is one of the most critical problems encountered in oil and gas industries daily activity and operations, the only effective way to avoid sulfate scale is to prevent it from forming.
To prevent barium /strontium sulfate from forming and minimizing the potential of scale formation and associated well work over and squeeze treatment costs, Sulfate most therefore be selectively removed from sea water before being subjected to injection.
A pilot plant CPP-NF (Compressed Phase Precipitation & Nano Filtration) testing was thus conducted to primarily and sufficiently deplete sulfate from sea water before being injected.
The main objectives of the pilot plant is to study and evaluate the feasibility and cost-effective of CPP-NF technology for de-sulfation of sea water and/or MSF brine in Subiya Sea Water Treatment Plant SWTP, the foundation of the selected technology rests on how KOC can : 1) - increase the value and quality of the injected sea water, and 2)- implement the technology in such a way that the improved sea water quality would not cost more than the current situation and serve KOC long term goals.
The pilot testing was very successful and the removal of sulfate was consistently in the range of 98–99%, furthermore, the pilot testing also revealed that the issue of high TSS (Total Suspended Solids) within the facility can be resolved at no additional cost.
Kuwait Digital Integrated Field - Enabling Virtualization technology for a step Change
Authors: Saleem H.. , Al-Shammari R.. , Al-Mai N.. , Robert H.. , Saxena M.. , Joy S.. , Rao P.. , Ismail M.. 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
KwIDF is a complex cross-domain solution consisting of a fully integrated infrastructure which supports field instrumentation, automated workflows and ergonomically designed collaboration solution. This paper describes virtualization technology and associated improvements in processes that will improve the Digital Oil Feld infrastructure resources and allow KOC's Corporate IT Group with tools to achieve more flexibility in delivering business critical data that translates into decision-ready information and collaborative support.
After three years of operation, data volumes are increasing rapidly with multiple workflows driven by multiple applications and the current infrastructure is not adequate to provide optimum performance. Added to this, complex workflows are planned for the next stage of development which will demand performance that the current system will not be able to deliver.
Though there are dedicated servers for each application, it is difficult to manage the application servers and storage. Therefore, it is essential to build a robust infrastructure for the current and future environments which will only become more complex with the onset of advanced workflows and exponential increase in the volume of data.
This paper describes the virtualization solution for Kuwait Digital Integrated Field infrastructure which will improve the utilization of resources, enable high availability and provide better disaster recovery solution. The solution will include the SCADA industrial network and the corporate user network which will allow KOC to achieve measurable business benefits such as reduction in the cost of IT Infrastructure while improving performance and reliability
KOC Flaring Success Story
Authors: Al-Zuwayer Hamad R. , Singhal Vineet , Al-Sughayer Nasser Y. 
Published: October 2015

Abstract
Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), an upstream subsidiary of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), is in the business of exploration & exploitation of hydrocarbons in the state of Kuwait. While it ranks amongst the major oil companies of the world by virtue of its oil reserves & crude oil production, due to an inherently low GOR of its flagship oil fields, Kuwait has not been very gas-rich and has been compelled to practically utilize all of its produced gas in order to meet its needs. The gas utilization presently ranges in excess of 98.8% which translates to a flaring level of a little above 1% of the produced gas. The plan is to reduce flaring further down to &lt; 1% soon by increasing the gas utilization to over 99%. Managing sour rich gas is KOC's biggest challenge since its utilization (or flaring) is largely dependent upon availability of gas sweetening and/or sulfur recovery units. Increasing LP:HP ratio has added another dimension to the challenges being faced by KOC. This paper discusses KOC's endeavours & strides in meeting the gas flare reduction challenge.
Reservoir Characterization by 3D Modelling of Water Encroachment Using Time Lapse Pulsed Neutron Logs in a Heterogeneous Shalysand Reservoir of Greater Burgan Field
Authors: Madhavan Sethu , Al-Hashash Haya , Al-Arbash Abdulla 
Published: October 2015

AbstractWara reservoir of Greater Burgan field is a heterogeneous shaly sand reservoir deposited in fluvio-deltaic environment. Modeling the changes in hydrocarbon saturation and water encroachment in Wara reservoir has been a great challenge due to a combination of factors like heterogeneity, multiple Oil Water Contacts and multiple Oil Gas Contacts etc. Understanding the water encroachment and monitoring zones of water breakthrough is a key for effective water flooding reservoir management. Pulsed neutron capture (PNC) logs are commonly used for formation evaluation behind casing and to assess time-lapse variations of hydrocarbon saturations. Systematic time-lapse PNC logging can give a detailed description of hydrocarbon saturation changes in response to injection and production operations during water flooding. This paper addresses the workflow that has been utilized to create a 3D static model of Water encroachment using flags that characterize the swept and partially swept zones in the reservoir created from Sigma curves of Time lapse PNC logs along with synthetic sigma curves from the open whole logs acquired at the time of drilling the well. The remaining oil in place volume which was estimated from the sweep model was consistent with the volumetric of the simulation model and with the remaining oil in place calculated from the production data. Volumes of different vintages are created with time lapse PNC logs. The difference between these volumes can be used to understand the complex water encroachment in the reservoir due to multiple oil water contacts and also it can be used as a source to calibrate the 4D seismic data acquisition model. Connected volumes of the swept and partially swept zones computed from the model were utilized to visualize the swept zones.