bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of EOS to Optimize the Design of an Early Production Scheme of an Onshore Oil Field in Abu Dhabi
Authors: Braek A. M. , Almehaideb R. A. , Hughes R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This study is aimed at optimizing the design of surface facilities of an early production scheme for an onshore Abu Dhabi oil field. The current design of separation facilities is modular, and thus improvements in performance are possible with a better understanding of PVT properties of the oil produced. This is performed by optimizing the multistage separator process for the range of properties of oil processed by the facilities.
This paper describes the characterization of the crude oil processed by the facility using the 3-parameter Peng-Robinson Equations of state to describe the phase behavior and fluid properties using reservoir fluid data and an analysis of production data. After characterizing the fluids from each production well in the reservoir, the streams are mixed and the overall characterization of the total reservoir crude oil is used to optimize the design of the current facilities. This overall characterization of the crude oil is checked and compared to field analysis from the current operating facility.
Current production facilities consist of one production separator followed by a free water knockout tank. Results show that optimum separation requires a multi-stage scheme versus the two-stage scheme being used now. Up to 2-3 % increase in oil volumes produced may be achieved by using an optimized 3-stage separator design consisting of high and medium pressure production separators followed by the free water knockout tank.
TOTAL ABK Operations Training Simulator
Authors: Ahmad Nadir 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
During 1997-1998, TOTAL ABK installed a Process Training Simulator prior to the implementation of a substantial gas processing facility upgrade which involved, revamping of existing and addition of some new processes. A high degree of interaction between previously independent processes was introduced and these modifications, increased plant and operating complexity. The training simulator allowed training of operations personnel by simulating the effects of these new interactions as well as preparing them to operate in fact, what was a completely new plant configuration.
Having gained from this technology, TOTAL ABK further developed the content of the simulator model, to include more aspects of the operating process. The simulator is now installed in the offshore location and is used to train different levels of personnel.
This paper describes the Training Simulator and benefits gained from this experience.
Study of a Possible Miscible Flood in Bu Attifel Field
Authors: Zekri A. Y. , El-Agile Ibrahim , Cousin Libya E. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Many methods have been investigated in the laboratory and in the field for improving oil recovery. Today technology and economics on the average leaves two barrels of oil in the ground for each barrel recovered worldwide. On the other hand the recovery factor of Bu Attifel field is around 50% which indicates a substantial amount of oil remains in the ground after primary & secondary recovery processes are completed. This remaining oil is an EOR target.
Many techniques have been proposed and used to recover the remaining oil such as chemical, miscible & thermal flooding techniques. Due to the nature of the reservoir and the current state of economics and technology miscible flooding has been selected to be investigated to improve the oil recovery in Bu Attifel field.
The work used laboratory measurements to investigate the possible use of lean gas , rich gas or CO2 in Bu Attifel field. The work consist of phase behavior , minimum miscibility pressure determination of Bu Attiful oil and lean gas, minimum miscibility composition determination of enriched gas.
Acid/Sour Gas Management in the Petroleum Industry
Authors: Jamaluddin A.K. M. , Bennion D. B. , Thomas F. B. , Clark M. A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Due to decreasing world demand for elemental sulphur, the economics of recovering sulphur from sour natural gas has become unfavorable. At the same time, air emission standards and regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, increasing the economical strain on oil and gas companies producing sour natural gas. Hydrocarbon producing companies are in search of environmentally-friendly and cost-effective methods for dealing with acid gas, which is produced in association with sour natural gas.
In recent years, compressed acid gas re-injection into a porous formation has emerged as a viable alternative to sulphur recovery with the added advantage of eliminating air emissions. As an alternative, some operators also solubilize the sour/acid gas into disposable formation water and dispose acid water into porous formation. In addition, to take advantage of high solubility of acid/sour gas into light hydrocarbon solvent, some operators are also injecting light hydrocarbon solvent containing acid/sour gas into the depleted oil leg as a miscible flood enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique. Laboratory tests and results will be presented in this paper which illustrate the pros and cons of all these alternative processes to manage the produced acid/sour gas in the petroleum industry.
Estimation of Formation Properties Using Multiprobe Formation Tester in Layered Reservoirs
Authors: Badaam H. , Al-Matroushi S. , Young N. , Ayan C. , Mihçakan M. , Kuchuk F. J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Vertical interference tests across stylolite zones were carried out in a number of wells using the wireline multiprobe formation tester as a part of the reservoir characterization for the pilot gas injection areas in a Middle East Carbonate reservoir. For each test, the pressure and flow rate at the sink probe and pressures at the horizontal and two vertical observation probes were recorded as a function of time. For the interpretation of the pressure measurements from these tests, a detailed reservoir model was constructed based on the field geology and openhole logs, particularly resistivity images. Vertical communication across tested zones and individual layer horizontal and vertical permeabilities are obtained. High permeability zones were identified with some lateral continuity across wells. Some zones were found to be local permeability barriers with well developed stylolite zones. The results will be used in the modeling of a pilot gas injection study.
New Array Resistivity Measurements: Physics and ME Case Histories
Authors: Strack K-M. , Frenkel M. A. , Koleman J. M. V. A. , Mezzatesta A. G. , Talabani S. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
When searching for hydrocarbons, electrical logging methods play a fundamental role in differentiating between water and oil-bearing formations. Special logging devices have been successfully used for this purpose. However, with the increased requirements to better understand more complex reservoirs and the need for drilling deviated and horizontal wells, higher resolution measurements and appropriate interpretation techniques are now required for accurate formation evaluation.
During the past 5 years, we have developed galvanic and induction types array resistivity devices and inversion processing to gain a better under-standing of these more complex reservoirs. While the array induction, as an industry standard, addresses these issues for resistive muds, the new array laterolog addresses them for conductive muds. The application range for both tools extends to different mud environments. It can also been shown that these tools deliver complementary formation information in a joint interpretation mode and also better resolution with reduced uncertainty.
The raw data, which is acquired as a time series is processed for improved signal-to-noise ratio, and then input directly into an inversion software package. This package yields optimized formation parameters and their uncertainties.
Performance Evaluation of Horizontal Wells
Authors: Kuchuk Fikri J. , Lenn Chris , Hook Peter , Fjerstad Paul 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In this paper, the use of various measurements for performance evaluation of horizontal wells is presented. First, determining formation pressure and permeability distributions along the wellbore by using the Multiprobe Formation Tester Packer-Probe Module pressure transient interval tests are investigated. It is shown that reservoir pressure measurements along the wellbore give local as well as reservoir scale information about how the reservoir is being depleted and how cleanup takes place. Second, a horizontal well buildup test interpretation is presented to show that minimizing the wellbore storage effect is crucial for system identification as well as for parameter estimation. Third, the productivity of horizontal wells is explored because it has been difficult to determine the horizontal well productivity due to their long length in the formation compared with vertical wells and inadequacy of measurements during drilling and production. Using field examples, we show that the new integrated production logging measurements can be used to assess horizontal well productivity by identifying productive zones, fluid entries, and determining the fluid distribution (oil, gas, and water) in the wellbore. We also show how reservoir heterogeneity affects the reservoir pressure distribution. The field examples indicate that horizontal wells have permanent water sumps, regardless of whether they produce water. In these wells, we show that when a large percentage of the wellbore cross section is filled with water, reduced oil entry oecurs. Performance simulations for these horizontal well indicate 30 to 50 percent productivity reduction when they are compared with their full potential.
New Procedure for Horizontal Well Test Design and Interpretation in Heterogeneous Reservoirs
Authors: Falade G. K. , Konwar L. S. , Mohammed Sabry A'Alim. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper presents case histories of horizontal wells transient pressure test interpretations conducted in a carbonate reservoir. The development of non-conventional techniques for interpreting some short-time horizontal well test pressure responses are presented.
Horizontal well trajectories as well as fluid flow dynamics can introduce complexities into the horizontal well test pressure response data. In many of such cases, horizontal well tests are not amenable to analysis using conventional methods of well test interpretations. However, for those wells where the early radial and the early linear flow regimes are observed, a test interpretation method developed as ‘The Gradient Intercept Method’ could be used to implement complete test interpretation satisfactorily. The method precludes the need for the development of late radial flow regime, and consequently, the long shut-in time generally associated with horizontal well testing and the attendant loss of oil production can be averted. A numerical model with PEBI grids is also constructed using a well test simulator to confirm the results obtained from gradient intercept method.
For cases where the primary objective of a well test program is the assessment of wellbore skin effect, the Short Time Skin Test (STST) is introduced. The STST is essentially a wellbore monitoring technique used in a time-lapse fashion to evaluate wellbore damage. Both the Gradient Intercept and the STST methods are illustrated with field examples to demonstrate their applicability.
Site Specific and Integrated Waste Management Plan for Oil and Gas Exploration Production
Authors: GENESTE Philippe , GRANDPRAT Michel , SUTTON Catherine , VIDALIE Jean-François , DRAPIER Maurice 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
TOTAL Exploration Production (TEP) has assumed a commitment in the implementation of a Waste Management Plan, fully integrated as a part of the Environmental Management System on each oil and gas E&P site. The strategy is a step by step process based on : waste inventory, reduction at source, recycling, toxicity minimisation, treatment and pre-treatment, final disposal. Produced wastes are varied : oil base mud cuttings, oily sludge and mud from water treatment, oily paraffinic emulsion, spent chemicals and lubricants, scrap materials, household waste from base camps, contaminated soils from a spill area in case of incident.
Waste segregation and recycling is always a priority, depending on process conditions and available local possibilities. Waste reduction at source is systematically considered : use of recycling drilling fluids, slim holes to minimise cuttings volume, choice of desaromatized fluids for toxicity reduction, etc. Environmental Performance Indicators are selected and closely monitored to detect the exact waste generation, detect any harmful effects and establish mitigating measures.
Waste treatment techniques are specifically designed according to local regulation and good oil industry practices. Various techniques such as stabilisation/solidification, landfill disposal, treatment in authorised centres are applied when no other alternative is available. Improved combustion using special burners is preferable and much more environmentally satisfactory than conventional ground flaring.
Some methods are innovative and integrated in a comprehensive R&D Program : biotreatment is a method for which successful pilot field tests have been achieved in France (landfarming tests using oil base mud cuttings, and composting in biopiles). After the favourable results obtained, it was decided to apply the method to oily wastes from an E&P site. Two basic treatment routes are being investigated : bio-slurry, dynamic and static composting. The technique will be applied as an industrial waste treatment process in a dedicated "bio-centre".
Thermophilic Bacteria in UAE Environment Can Enhance Biodegradation and Mitigate Wellbore Problems
Authors: AlMaghrabi I. , Chaalal O. , Islam M. R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Several strains of thermophilic bacteria were isolated from the environment of the United Arab Emirates. These bacteria show extra ordinary resistance to heat and have their maximum growth rate ranging from 45C to 80C. This paper investigates the potential of using these facultative bacteria for both in situ and ex situ bioremediation of oil spills and microbial enhanced oil recovery. In a series of batch experiments, bacterial growth was observed using a Computer Image Analyzer following a recently developed technique.
Experiments show clearly that the growth rate is high in the presence of crude oil. This is coupled with a rapid degradation of the crude oil. These bacteria were found to be ideal for breaking down long-chain organic molecules at a temperature of 80C, which is the typical temperature of the light oil reservoirs in the Gulf region. These bacteria were also prolific at 45C, which is the typical ambient temperature of the region in the summer months. The same strains of bacteria are also capable of surviving in the presence of saline environment that can prevail in both sea water and reservoir connate water. This observation prompted further investigation into the applicability of the bacteria in microbial enhanced oil recovery. These bacteria were found to decompose crude oil as well as asphaltenes. Most of UAE crude oils are asphaltic and pose serious production problems of near-wellbore plugging. Thermophilic bacteria can effectively clean damaged wells and the vicinity of wellbores.
Similarly, the bacteria appeared to breakdown the microstructure of waxy materials. Even though, this did not yield to high degradation rate, the permeability damage due to wax deposition could be mitigated.
Finally, mathematical models were developed for determining the degradation rate in the presence of thermophilic bacteria. Corrections are made to accommodate both the effect of growth and propagation in the porous medium in the vicinity of the wellbore. Excellent match was found between experimental and numerical observations. Predictive runs were conducted to observe the role of various governing parameters prevalent in both environmental and enhanced oil recovery schemes.
Field-Scale Modeling of Asphaltene Transport in Porous Media
Authors: Al-Adhab H. , Kocabas I. , Islam M. R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Asphaltene precipitation can have profound effects on oil production during miscible flooding, heavy oil recovery, or even primary depletion. Even though asphaltene precipitation has been known to have strong effects on permeability reduction, quantitative analysis of the process has been started only recently. This paper extends the previous work to consolidate some of the hypotheses and reports results of a comprehensive field-scale wellbore simulator. The wellbore model couples the asphaltene adsorption model with a series of phenomenological models that are independently validated with either experimental or field data. These models are incorporated into the mathematical model, for a linear as well as radial system. The radial model is particularly useful for simulating asphaltene transport and deposition near the wellbore because of the continuously changing speed for this case. Initially, the simplified governing equations were solved analytically in order to observe the role of some of the parameters independently. Following this, a series of numerical runs was conducted to observe the role of various governing factors on wellbore design parameters under more realistic representation. Experimentally, the deposition was found to be a function of permeability, flow rate and concentration. Two distinct mechanisms were identified, namely, deposition and adsorption. Deposition could be explained in terms of trapping and mechanical plugging. The model builds on the two mechanisms described above. The coupled mathematical model predicts permeability damage due to mechanical trapping and adsorption accurately, as evidenced when compared with experimental results. Three different plugging regimes were identified and were verified with the numerical model. A series of predictive runs further clarified the transition between different flow regimes.
Clean Technology Using Cogeneration Concept for Simultaneous Production of Electricity, Steam and Industrial Gases
Authors: deMontigny D. , Kritpiphat W. , Gelowitz D. , Tontiwachwuthikul P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Energy is the most critical factor for the growth of nations' economy. However, its use has a major impact on the environment especially air pollutants in the atmosphere. In addition, the energy production from fossil fuel, the world most important fuel, is recently known to be the key contributor of the CO2 (a major greenhouse gas) resulting in global warming problems. This paper is an extension of our earlier research work(1) to demonstrate how cogeneration concepts can be used to reduce production costs and simultaneously produce electricity, steam, as well as industrial gases such as CO2. With this cogeneration concept, there will be very little air pollutants discharged into the atmosphere. We will discuss a case study of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) application, conducted at the Energy Research Unit, Faculty of Engineering, University of Regina, Canada. The study was supported by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Saskatchewan Power Corporation, Saskatchewan Department of Energy and Mines, Prairie Coal Ltd., the Canada Centre for Mineral and Energy Technology (CANMET), Fluor Daniel Inc. (USA), Sulzer Chemtech (Switzerland) and Wascana Energy Inc.
Manpower Recruitment Policy in the UAE: A Survey of the Expatriates
Authors: Sevgur S. B. , Islam M. R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In an ideal work environment, employees are recruited based on their ability and potential of excellence. In order to ensure that bias and prejudice do not prevail, governments around the world have implemented strict recruitment guidelines, especially for workers in the government offices and state universities. Ironically, United States, a country that has been criticized for harboring prejudice for centuries, has pioneered the so-called "Equal Employment Opportunity" regulations and other related laws. While this legislation has yielded some results in some US government sectors, problems have surfaced in other sectors, including areas dealing with technology development and universities. A recent survey of 20 US universities indicates that little attention has been paid to academic excellence in hiring university faculty members. Instead, desperate efforts have been made to recruit members of the "right complexion" and "proper" upbringing. It is interesting to find out if similar practice exists in the UAE. This paper presents a survey of 54 university/college faculty members and employees and 47 employees of the energy sector (all expatriates) in an effort to find trends in hiring practices in the UAE.
The survey indicates that overwhelming evidences of nepotism, ethnic connection, and regional bonding exist. There is no evidence of systematic recruitment of workers who have demonstrated ability to excel. Even announcements and advertisements are targeted to specific ethnic groups.
Unfortunately, this practice is more prevalent in the university/college system than in the industry. Also, there remains a distinct bias in favour of white westerners who enjoy an environment that succumbs to the idea of "white supremacy" (in the minds of many recruiters).
Finally, a series of recommendations is made in order to improve the work environment that currently harbours regionality, ethnic grouping, and other non-technical structures. The UAE government has always shown eagerness in achieving excellence at workplace. This study shows how improvements can be made if proper recruitment policies are exercised.
Displacement Visualization of Gravity Drainage by Micromodel
Authors: Sajadian V. A. , Tehrani D. H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Investigation of physics of fluid flow in porous media at the microscopic scale is expected to result in significant improvement in our understanding of the macroscopic phenomena observed in laboratory and in the field. To model multiphase flow, and to predict ultimate oil recoveries from reservoir formations more realistically, it is essential to study flow behaviour and fluid distribution at the pore level at various situations.
The following results were obtained during secondary and tertiary gas gravity drainage processes: The injected gas changes the balance between gravity and capillary forces and can result in mobilization of connate water and redistribution of all phases.The front will never advance with a horizontally descending gas-oil contact within the pore structure. It appears that initially the buoyancy effects are overshadowed by capillary forces.The film flow of oil is an important phenomenon in the fluid flow process under gas injection.With positive, or near zero spreading coefficient, which is generally the case for most oil reservoir, oil spreads over water and forms a film between gas and water phases. This oil film provides an efficient conduit for flow of oil between various pores under the combined effect of gravity and capillary forces.The displacement efficiency and ultimate recovery decrease significantly for the case of layered network.Oil drainage occurred both, ahead of the gas phase and behind it in the gas invaded zone. As the gas front moves deeper in the model the pressure difference between the gas and oil phases in the gas invaded part increases.