bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SPE-Electronic Publishing Committee 1995 Update on Initiatives
Authors: Thrasher T. S. , Kemp B. D. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The primary mission of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) is to disseminate petroleum engineering technology. One of the most important sources of petroleum engineering technology is the extensive inventory (over 30,000) of SPE technical papers. In October 1991 the SPE Board authorized the Ad Hoc Electronic Publishing Committee (EPC) to explore how electronic publishing technologies might help the SPE promote the dissemination of petroleum engineering technology. The purpose of this paper is to update members on the progress of the SPE Electronic Publishing Committee, current projects and initiatives, vision for the future, and to encourage member support.
Productivity And Profitability From Mature North Sea Fields
Authors: Leggate John S. , Gregory John B. , Bennett Simon C. 
Published: December 2007

John S. Leggate*, John B. Gregory*, Simon C. Bennett * SPE Members

Abstract
BPX recognised that a radically different approach was required in the management of its mature North Sea oil fields. In January 1994 the Beatrice, Buchan, Clyde and Thistle fields were brought together into a single mature asset - MAST - with the objectives of maximising economic recovery, extending the delivery of positive cash flows and deferring non-value adding abandonment expenditure. During 1994 the MAST team has achieved top quartile business performance when compared to other North Sea operators and aims to be best in class by the end of 1995. This has come about through aggressive cost reduction and maintaining/enhancing oil production, yet sustaining an already good HSE performance.
Key to this success has been the use of benchmarking data, the setting of extra-ordinary targets, the proactive evolution of the market place, the use of novel organisational structures and the encouragement of certain behaviours within the team. Success to date has provided the space to consider opportunities for growth such that there is now confidence that the MAST business will continue to make a positive cash flow contribution to BPX into the next millenium.
During the second half of 1993, in the face of the oil price collapsing to its lowest real level for 20 years, BP reviewed the shape of its UKCS upstream portfolio and identified four mature assets from which financial returns were extremely limited in comparison with the effort involved in managing them. Typically, the fields in question were producing between 10,000 and 25,000 barrels of oil per day, off a cost base which, by UKCS standards, was probably no better than average. Clearly, something different was required to improve the cash generation of these assets, so top quartile operating cost targets were set and the fields placed under the management of a small, highly-incentivised team (MAST), whose emphasis was placed clearly on performance delivery. This paper describes the events of 1994, which have resulted in significant improvements in business performance and some extremely important and value-adding learning from BP's perspective.

THE PRE-MAST COMPLEXITIES
Prior to a new approach being taken with Beatrice, Buchan, Clyde and Thistle, the contribution of these fields amounted to just 4% of BP's upstream UKCS production, yet accounted for more than 17% of the resource base (operating costs, people, etc.). More than 1000 individual service contracts were in operation in the marketplace and we were handling 50,000 invoices each year. The organisation was characterised by complexity, many interfaces, unclear accountabilities and large staff numbers. Additionally, there were complex partnerships with no fewer than 14 different Partners. Overall BP equity share across the four fields was round one third.
Evaluation of Gelatinous Fluids as Insulator for Steam Injection
Authors: Suarez Simon , Rios Carlos , Layrisse Ignacio 
Published: December 2007

Simon Suarez,* Carlos Rios, Ignacio Layrisse*
SPE Members

Summary
The theoretical, experimental and operational foundations related to the development of the Gel-IntTM thermal insulator are presented. This thermal insulator is a product patented by INTEVEP, S.A and is employed as an insulating medium in the cyclic steam injection process, in oil-producing wells.
The activities carried out, included the experimental evaluation of different insulating mixtures and the performance of field tests. As a part of the experimental development 19 insulating mixtures were evaluated in test cells, including a commercial brand mixture a widely used. During the experimental evaluation, the insulating mixtures were studied from the thermal and rheological behavior point of view.
The experimental activities concluded with the formulation of the Gel-IntTM thermal insulator. Subsequently, a field evaluation of this formulation confirmed, under real steam injection conditions, the thermal and rheological properties experimentally established.

Background
One of the most widely applied methods for the enhanced oil recovery of heavy and extra heavy crudes is the steam injection. This method consists mainly in injecting steam into the producing sand with the purpose of reducing the crude's viscosity and facilitating its mobility. Steam is injected at temperatures between 300 and 500 C, and at pressures within the range of 1000 and 1500 psi.
In order to keep a steam quality that guarantees the best utilization of its latent heat, a thermal insulator is required in the annular space (space between the casing and the injection tubing). This insulator would reduce the heat losses towards the formation, and at the same time, would provide an adequate thermal protection to the casing.
In the Orinoco Belt, in the Morichal area, liquid thermal insulators with gel characteristics have been normally employed. With the purpose of substituting the most commonly commercial brand used, Intevep initiated some research activities in 1984 on gel thermal insulators. The result of these activities was the development and patent of a thermal insulator known as Gel-IntTM, which is used by Lagoven in Morichal.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE
Description of the experiment
The experimental tests were based on the methodology developed by S. Suarez, et al as regards the thermal evaluation of the different insulating mixtures. This method includes the use of two test cells described as qualitative and quantitative.
In the qualitative cell, evaluations of temperature and qualitative behavior profile of the insulating mixtures were performed (solid precipitation, pressure increments in the annular space, times to reach stationary conditions and degradation of the mixtures components).
In the quantitative cell, temperature gradients in stationary conditions were registered in order to determine the equivalent thermal conductivity of the evaluated mixtures.
P. 169
Environmental Aspects Of Gas-Stimulation Experiments Using Nuclear Explosives
Authors: Stead Frank W. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Projects Gasbuggy, at 4,200-foot depth, and Rulison, at 8,400 feet, both experiments in low-pressure gas reservoirs, provide significant data on the space-time distribution of radionuclides a present major environmental concern of Government, industry, and the public. Following initial explosion-produced distribution of radionuclides in solid and fluid phases of the reservoir, later transport of radionuclides contained in the fluid phases depends on regional ground-water movement and on gas flow during production tests. production tests. Data from Gasbuggy and Rulison indicate that the major radionuclides in highly mobile fluids, water vapor, and gases, are tritium (T), krypton-85, carbon-14, and argon-37, -39; of these., of principal concern is tritium, distributed about 90 percent as tritiated water (HTO) and 10 percent in natural gas and hydrogen gas (HT). Data also indicate that, except for a transient high-pressure pulse accompanying early-time explosion pulse accompanying early-time explosion effects, the pressure in the cavity-chimney void volume does not exceed ambient reservoir pressure, and is thus insufficient to increase pressure, and is thus insufficient to increase groundwater movement and concurrent transport of radionuclides. Regional ground-water movement is in general uncontrollable and requires full documentation of the geohydrologic environment prior to nuclear explosions to permit prediction of where and under what permit prediction of where and under what conditions ground-water transport of possible hazardous radionuclide concentrations could occur; in contrast, gas flow during production tests with concurrent transport of radionuclides is controllable, in release to the surface environment, to meet concentration levels set by present radiation standards.
Projects Wagon Wheel and Wasp, proposed gas stimulation experiments at depths of about 12,000 feet and at reservoir pressures above hydrostatic equivalent, should provide additional data on effectiveness of fracturing and chimney formation, and on distribution of radionuclides. Possible transport of radionuclides by relatively high-pressure gas drive toward the surface along explosion-produced fractures has been evaluated and seems not a stringent limitation.
Commercial Heavy Oil recovery by Cyclic Steam Stimulation in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Qabandi Salman , Al-Shatti Younis , Gopalakrishnan P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The heavy oil deposit of Kuwait consists of a viscous low API Gravity Crude occurring at shallow depths. The reservoir Temperature is low because of the shallow depths. The areal extent of this deposit is quite large as this is encountered in every well in the entire area, covering several fields.
The Geological age of the deposit is middle Eocene and corresponds to the well Known Asmari Limestone of Iran. The sequence of reservoir stratigraphy from top to bottom can be descrihed as: Cap rock shale which acts as the top of entrapmentUpper tongue of reservoir sandIntermediate shale memberLower tongue of the reservoir sandBottom shale, which is the reservoir boundary.
Casing Window Milling With Abrasive Fluid Jet
Authors: Vestavik O. M. , Fidtje T. H. , Faure A. M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Methods for through tubing re-entry drilling of multilateral wells has a large potential for increasing hydrocarbon production and total recovery. One of the bottle-necks of this technology is initiation of the side-track by milling a window in the casing downhole. A new approach to this problem has been investigated in a joint industry project.
An experimental set-up has been built for milling a 4" window in a 7" steel casing at surface in the laboratory. A specially designed bit developed at RF using abrasive jet cutting technology has been used for the window milling. The bit has an abrasive jet beam which is always directed in the desired side-track direction, even if the bit is rotating uniformly. The bit performs the milling with a combined mechanical and hydraulic jet action.
The method has been successfully demonstrated. The experiments has shown that the window milling can be performed with very low WOB and torque, and that only small side forces are required to perform the operation. Casing milling has been performed without a whipstock, a cement plug has been the only support for the tool. The tests indicate that milling operations can be performed more efficiently with less time and costs than what is required with conventional techniques. However, the method still needs some development of the downhole motor for coiled tubing applications. The method can be used both for milling and drilling giving the advantage of improved rate of penetration, improved bit life and increased horizontal reach. The method is planned to be demonstrated downhole in the near future.
Fracturing Behavior in Soft Layered Formations
Authors: Morales R. H. , Stewart B. R. , Mullen M. E. , Ali S. A. , Norman W. D. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
An increasing number of tip screenout hydraulic fractures are being performed in the un-consolidated hydrocarbon reservoirs of the Gulf Coast of Mexico and other regions. These sands are often bounded by shales that exhibit higher modulus and higher closure stresses. Because of the modulus and stress contrasts, the fracturing stimulation of layered reservoirs often results in the propagation of several fractures. Each fracture is contained between two bounding shales, and thus, is isolated from the others by the bounding shales. This is in contrast to parallel fractures which may interact with each other. This paper describes the modeling of systems of layered fractures. The technique is demonstrated using a field application in which downhole data is acquired.
Drilling Plastic Formations Using Highly Polished PDC Cutters
Authors: Smith R. H. , Lund J. B. , Anderson M. , Baxter R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Highly plastic and over-pressured formations are troublesome for both roller cone and PDC bits. Thus far, attempts to increase penetration rates in these formations have centered around re-designing the bit or modifying the cutting structure. These efforts have produced only moderate improvements.
This paper presents both laboratory and field data to illustrate the benefits of applying a mirror polished surface to the face of PDC cutters in drilling stressed formations. These cutters are similar to traditional PDC cutters, with the exception of the reflective mirror finish, applied to the diamond table surfaces prior to their installation in the bit.
Results of tests conducted in a single point cutter apparatus and a full-scale drilling simulator will be presented and discussed. Field results will be presented that demonstrate the effectiveness of polished cutters, in both water and oil-based muds. Increases in penetration rates of 300-400% have been observed in the Wilcox formation and other highly pressured shales. Typically, the beneficial effects of polished cutters have been realized at depths greater than 7000 ft, and with mud weights exceeding 12 ppg.
The Evolution of Hydraulic Fracturing in the Almond Formation
Authors: Cramer David D. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This study draws from a database of over 600 wells to evaluate reservoir, production and treatment characteristics in the low-permeabil¡ty, naturally-fractured Almond formation. Treatment-induced damage can be significant; damage mechanisms are discussed and ways are shown to mitigate these problems. An effective fracture stimulation design combines proppant scheduling of the late 1970’s with fluid and gel-breaker systems of today.
Drill Pipe Rotation Effects on Frictional Pressure Losses in Slim Annuli
Authors: Hansen Svein A. , Sterri Njål 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
The effect of rotation on the frictional pressure loss in an annulus has been studied experimentally. A direct comparison with results obtained with a 3D CFD (computational fluid dynamics) code has been performed for laminar flow. Experimental results for three fluids are presented. In this paper we will focus on two effects of rotation in a slim hole annulus. The increase in the frictional pressure loss with high rotation rates for low viscosity fluids which is caused by the onset of centrifugal instabilities. The reduction of the frictional pressure loss with rotation for high viscosity shear thinning fluids.
Technical and Economical Feasibility of Coiled Tubing Drilling
Authors: Gary S. C. , Doremus D. M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The technique for evaluating coiled tubing (CT) drilling prospects is described. The technical and economic factors involved are discussed using a flowchart to guide the operator in the decision making process.
In the technical analysis, the parameters limiting the feasibility of using CT for a given drilling project are reviewed. These parameters include CT tension, helical buckling which limits the weight on bit (WOB) and the horizontal reach, CT collapse pressure when drilling underbalanced, CT fatigue, and the usual hydraulic parameters such as annular velocity and pumping pressure.
In today’s business environment, some projects, while technically feasible, may not be economically feasible. In the economic analysis, the competitiveness of each CT drilling application versus conventional solutions is evaluated, and factors such as project duration and equipment use are reviewed.
The equipment normally required for a CT drilling job and the costs associated with mobilizing this equipment are discussed.
The Effect of Long-term Shut-in Periods on Fracture Conductivity
Authors: Bilden D. M. , Fletcher P. A. , Montgomery C. T. , Guillory R. J. , Allen T. P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Polymer residue is known to be a major cause of propped fracture conductivity damage. Many factors that can contribute to the significance of this damage are polymer type, initial and final polymer concentrations, breaker types and concentrations, formation mineralogy, bottom hole static temperature, shut-in time and fluid cleanup rates.
Most fracturing treatments are designed with good fluid stability for a specific period of time that corresponds to the job pump time. It is then desired to break the fluid as quickly and completely as possible to facilitate rapid cleanup of the well and minimize conductivity damage. A common belief has been that if the treatment is shut-in in the reservoir too long, fracture conductivity damage may increase. This belief has led to operational completion practices that are costly and unnecessary.
A laboratory study was conducted to study the effects of long-term shut-in periods of up to seven days. The results indicated that additional conductivity damage would not occur under the conditions tested. These observations resulted in changes in completion procedures that improved rig time efficiency for the completion of remotely located offshore wells.
Hydraulic Wellbore Erosion While Drilling
Authors: Chemerinski Bill , Robinson Leon 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This study shows that nozzle velocity and not annular velocity causes hole enlargement in competent formations. Five similar wells were selected where pump rates and nozzle sizes could be controlled to evaluate the effect of nozzle shear rate and annular velocity. After the wells were drilled, caliper logs evaluated hole erosion. These comparative studies revealed that annular velocity did not cause erosion. Holes in which the nozzle velocity was low and annular velocities high eroded less than holes with high nozzle velocities and low annular velocities.
Two wells were drilled in competent formations with an oil-base drilling fluid and three were drilled with a water-base drilling fluid. Below surface casing, all wells used IADC code 427, 517 and 537 drill bits. The data indicates that even with oil-base drilling fluid, high nozzle shear-rates eroded the wellbore more than holes drilled with lower nozzle shear rates. High annular velocities did not erode the hole.
Adequate bottomhole scavenging was maintained even with lower nozzle velocities. Drilling rates did not decrease because of inadequate bottomhole cleaning.
This paper describes the drilling conditions, and the caliper logs, and discusses sequences of events that could explain the observations. Some preliminary guidelines are presented so that drillers can prevent erosion of the wellbore from high shear rates at the bit nozzles.
Manipulation of Coupled Osmotic Flows for Stabilisation of Shales Exposed to Water-Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: van Oort E. , Hale A. H. , Mody F. K. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Coupled osmotic flows have been studied as a means of stabilising shales exposed to water-based muds. The prime factor that governs the magnitude of chemical osmotic flow, i.e. the shale-fluid membrane efficiency, was investigated in detail. Its dependence on shale parameters, fluid parameters and external conditions was quantified. Membrane efficiency was found to increase with an increase in (hydrated) solute-to-pore-size ratio, with an increase in the shale’s high-surface area clay content and with a decrease shale permeability when increasing effective confining stress. Moreover, new drilling fluid chemistries for improving the efficiencies of low- and non-selective shale-fluid systems were identified. Induced osmotic flow with optimised shale-fluid membrane efficiencies in water-based environments is presented as a new strategy for improving wellbore stability in shales.
Innovative Through-Tubing Workover Process Utilizing a Cement Packer
Authors: Hathcock Larry , Gardner Craig , Herbert Paul , Hoss Richard , King Lee , Norman David 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Over the years, cement packers have been used to provide zonal isolation above the production packer without pulling the completion. Experience has shown that the risks associated with placement of the packers is fairly high and leaks are difficult to repair. A number of ways to place cement packers have been developed over the years and a new method has been recently field trial tested in the Gulf of Mexico in the SMI 288 field. This paper introduces a novel approach developed to install a completion, in a through-tubing process, to recover otherwise uneconomical, behind pipe reserves that are above existing production packer installations. The entire process takes advantage of significantly improved mature technologies. The application of this process can increase recoverable reserves and avoid expensive workover costs when the reserve estimates are questionable. This paper will discuss the methodology used and the results of a case history included to illustrate the implementation of the process. It involved creating a window in the tubing across the new zone and placement of a cement packer above the window. The window was created so as to lower the completion drawdown and lower the risk of completing in wells requiring sand control.
Portland Cement - Blast Furnace Slag Blends in Oilwell Cementing Applications
Authors: Mueller Dan T. , DiLullo Gino , Hibbeler Jeff , Kelly Patrick 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Recent investigations of blast furnace slag cementing technologies have been expanded to include Portland cement/blast furnace slag blends. Mixtures of Portland cement and blast furnace slag, while having a iong history of use in the construction industry, have not been used extensively in oilwell cementing applications. Test results indicate that blending blast furnace slag with Portland cement produces a high quality well cementing material. Presented are the design guidelines and laboratory test data relative to mixtures of blast furnace slag and Portland cements. Case histories delineating the use of blast furnace slag - Portland cement blends in field applications are also included.