bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Robust Approach to Flow Unit Zonation
Authors: Lawal Kazeem A. , Onyekonwu Mike O. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Flow units are usually defined in assigning petrophysical characteristics to different zones of a detailed description of a reservoir. Because of differences of concepts, the available techniques usually show discrepancy. In this study, a flow unit is defined as a differential volume of the reservoir rock within which the flow characterizing parameter is statistically uniform but differs significantly from those of adjacent volumes. On this basis, a semi-empirical model, which honours both geology and petrophysics of the rock and applicable to both sandstone and carbonate formations, has been formulated. This is the basis of the Generalized technique subsequently developed.
Using the case of a sandstone formation, with performance objectives of consistency, accuracy of permeability-porosity relationship and minimization of number of flow units, five existing techniques were compared with the new approach. The results show that the Generalized technique is superior. This improved reservoir characterization may be attributed to the flow characterizing parameter proposed, the use of which has been extended to correlation of zones between adjacent wells. It is also discovered that flow zonation is independent of depth ordering, as volumes far apart are shown to have similar hydraulics and should be treated as such. Based on this concept, a nomograph for simple hydraulic analysis of porous media is also presented. Finally, the needs for further validation of the technique in other geologic regions and development of user-friendly package based on these principles are highlighted.
Application of Generalized Pressure Perturbation Principle to Cubic Equation of State Formulation
Authors: Isehunwa Sunday O. , Falade Gabriel K. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Cubic equations of state are commonly used for predicting the properties of reservoir fluids. They are simple to use and require few parameters during computations. They have also been found to produce results that are comparable to the more rigorous multi-parameter equations. However, they are still regarded by many as mere comprehensive correlations of fluid properties because of a number of weaknesses and limitations. This work addresses two weaknesses of cubic equations of state commonly highlighted in literature, viz: that they do not seem to have deep theoretical foundations and are not as accurate as non-cubic equations. A pressure perturbation technique based on a simple adaptation of the Weirtheim's first order thermodynamic perturbation theory has been developed and used to formulate a cubic equation of state. The practical equation formulated was applied to pure fluids and samples of Niger Delta Petroleum fluids. The results show more accurate predictions than the commonly used SRK and PR equations. This work suggests that cubic equations could have deeper theoretical roots than otherwise thought and provides a theoretical framework for improving the accuracy of cubic equations of state.
IFC Performance Standards
Authors: Miller P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) Safeguard Policies have been the basis for IFC's leadership and approach to environmental and social sustainability. Based largely on the World Bank's operational policies, IFC adopted its current set of Safeguard Policies in 1998 in order to manage environmental and social issues in the private sector business environment in emerging markets. IFC embarked on an ambitious two-year process in FY04 to update all of the Safeguard Policies through a single initiative to develop the next generation of a policy framework based on a clear, concise and comprehensive policy on social and environmental sustainability. Following an intensive review and analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in coverage of the current Safeguard Policies, IFC has recast the Safeguards as a Policy and Performance Standards on Social and Environmental Sustainability.
The Performance Standards are often considered the defacto standards even in the absence of IFC participation in the project. They could potentially apply to all projects in developing countries.
The Performance Standards contain clear and concise requirements geared toward project outcomes and promote performance improvement through monitoring, reporting and feedback. They place new emphasis on implementation through management systems, deal with social and environmental issues in a more integrated manner, and strengthen policy coverage of issues such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity. In addition, the Performance Standards address a number of additional subjects of direct concern to the private sector such as labor and working conditions and community health and safety.
IFC's social and environmental standards are the building blocks for our approach to sustainability and are embodied in IFC's Safeguard policies, Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines, and Disclosure Policy. Together these provide a framework to help our clients manage project risks and improve their performance, and help IFC improve development outcomes and maximize the development impact of our investments.
FPSO Gas-Detection System Performance Enhancement and Monitoring
Authors: Benmebarek S. , Hanlon S. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Operating FPSO's in severe weather conditions probably constitutes one of the most challenging aspects facing today's Offshore Oil Industry. Part of the challenge resides in achieving an optimal availability and reliability of the Gas Detection Systems.
The proposed paper describes the approach and methodology adopted in response to specific challenges encountered while commissioning the Gas Detection System onboard an FPSO operating offshore the East Coast of Canada.
Its contents will hopefully fit the Conference theme of "Delivering Sustainable HSE Performance Improvement Through Sharing".
The subject Gas Detection System was being commissioned in preparation for first hydrocarbons in the thick of winter, and prevailing weather conditions exacerbated the situation, resulting in a significant number of gas detectors' faults being recorded.
An action plan was put in place to identify the underlying causes and come up with the necessary improvements and enhancements to raise the system's performance to an acceptable level.
Three major initiatives were undertaken to achieve the set objectives prior to production operations starting, and to maintain them through the life cycle of the facility.
These initiatives were:
A comprehensive internal operability review to determine the overall reliability for detecting gas within a given fire zone, and confirm all hardware and software is operational and within design parameters. An external review study by a specialist consultant to assess the detectors performance against the performance target using 3D modelling and mapping techniques. he development of an in house tracking mechanism to monitor both real time and retrospectively the performance of all gas detection devices on the FPSO.
In conclusion, the above highlighted initiatives successfully allowed the FPSO Operator to demonstrate, and continue demonstrating an acceptable level of reliability and availability of the gas detection system, at all times during production operations.
Water Production Management Strategy in North Uthmaniyah Area, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Mutairi S. M. , Al-Harbi M. H. 
Published: December 2007

AbstractA water management strategy was initiated in the North Uthmaniyah area of Ghawar field in late 1999. The strategy main objectives are to reduce operating expenses associated with water handling and avoid capital investment required for the expansion of water handling facilities while engendering a more efficient recovery process. The strategy was implemented through four initiatives: operating of high water cut wells on a cyclic basis, conducting rigless water shut-off jobs, drilling horizontal sidetracks of existing vertical completions and drilling wells with partial penetration completions. All of these practices were designed to leverage Ghawar Arab-D advantages of high reservoir conformance and displacement efficiency, which will ultimately yield high oil production with minimal water production.The techniques of operating of high water cut wells on a cyclic basis and rigless water shut-off jobs have been successful in slowing down water production at low cost. Based on the recent encouraging results, it appears economically and technologically feasible to produce the remaining oil at lower water production rates, by drilling horizontal sidetracks during the middle and later production periods in mature fields concurrent with a rigorous surveillance and monitoring program. Finally, wells with partial penetration completions have been introduced to the area recently to delay water production and accelerate oil production.
Why do Watertight Doors Still Kill People? Long-Term Measures to Control the Risk
Authors: Tronstad L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Automatically power-operated watertight doors harm people every year. A review of some recent accidents shows weaknesses in design, marking, maintenance, operation and training for operation of this hazardous machinery (doors). The paper focus on the man-machine safety issues, and presents recommendations for long term measures to control the personal risk involved with operation of such doors.
Behavior Change and Enforcement: A Practical Approach
Authors: Almeida A. , Mannering M. , Lombardo G. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Schlumberger health, safety, and environment (HSE) programs have evolved over the past 20 years, accompanied by a steady decline in accident rates. However, in 2003 and 2004, improvement in accident rates had reached a plateau, and analysis indicated that more than 50% of accidents involved a failure to follow established, documented procedures. The need for a program to address behavior enforcement and behavior change was evident, and in 2004, the company formed a task force of employees and consultants to define such a program. This paper describes that program and its development, including definitions of its three components: accountability, hazard analysis and risk control, and observation and intervention. Also discussed are the must-have elements, changes in new-employee training, initial reaction to the program, and results to date.
Synergy between Integrity and HSE
Authors: Alawai S. M. , Azad A. K. , Al-Marri F. M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Though Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company (ADMA-OPCO) has been producing hydrocarbons for over 40 years without any major accident, the aging facilities; environmental restrictions and social obligations demand more than usual safety practices. The Shareholders, therefore, introduced some proactive measures in E&P Companies, in addition to traditional HSE activities, to ensure facilities' integrity. The development of ‘Integrity Assurance Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)’ by ADMA-OPCO in late 2003 was envisaged by ADNOC to measure and ensure the effectiveness of the integrity assurance activities.
The paper demonstratess how the Integrity Assurance KPIs' instigate to systematically identify potential process safety / integrity incidents; assess their possible causes and be able to demonstrate that appropriate policies, prevention measures, safety systems procedures and emergency response systems are established. The paper establishes a synergy between HSE and Integrity.
Health Management System
Authors: Madera A. , Sandri S. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The growing emphasis on the responsibility and accountability of company management for the safe guarding of health of employees as well as for the community is reflected in recognition that good health standards benefit industry and its employees. All the major Oil and Gas Companies have issued policy statement on HSE conservation. To assist Eni E&P Division Subsidiaries Companies to address health matters in a systematic manner, Eni E&P Division has accepted the use of the HSE Integrated Management System (HSE IMS) as the basis for the implementation of health into its operational activities. This paper describes the "Health Management System" (HMS) developed as a risk assessment based integrated element of the HSE IMS and how health can be managed in a way similar to other aspects of the business.
Automatic Shaker Control
Authors: Scott E. L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Traditionally, shale shakers have been manually operated machines. Key constituents such as basket angle and acceleration are featured as either fixed or manually adjustable components, which tend to yield limitations with a shaker's screen life, flow capacity, and operator safety. This work proposes an automatic shaker control to adjust the basket angle, manage acceleration, and decrease operator intervention.
In order to achieve automatic shaker control, a manualstyle shale shaker design was modified with electronic sensors, an actuator, an on-board computer, and software to automatically control the fluid level on the screens. The computerized shaker system measures the fluid level on the screens, detects input flow, and measures the basket angle. The shaker then adjusts the basket angle and acceleration boost in order to control the fluid level on the screens. The shaker maintains the fluid level near a constant optimum value, which is set by the user.
In low flow conditions, this proper fluid pool coverage of the screens promotes screen lubrication and reduces friction, which increases screen life. In high flow conditions, the fluid level control helps prevent whole mud loss. The automated shaker does not merely rely on basket angle control to manage high flow conditions. The automated shaker's arsenal against mud loss also includes an automatic boost and anticipation of new flows. The automatic boost feature temporarily increases the shaker acceleration (g-force) applied to the basket in order to process higher flow rates. Finally, when the input flow to the shaker stops, the basket is automatically tilted to the fully uphill position to prepare for the next flow. This decreases the possibility of sudden rushes of fluid from flooding the shaker before it can automatically adjust to a more uphill position. These shaker modifications maintain screen lubrication, increase screen life, and assist in the prevention of whole mud loss, all while reducing operator HSE exposure.
Tests have shown that the automated shaker increases screen life, decreases operator intervention, and helps prevent whole mud loss. Automatic shaker control can operate a shaker near optimum. The benefits of this can lead to increased shaker performance and decreased expenses.
Successful Field Use of Advanced Dynamic Models
Authors: Bjørkevoll K. S. , Rommetveit R. , Rønneberg A. , Larsen B. 
Published: December 2007

AbstractThis paper focuses on how advanced dynamic models can be best used in critical drilling and completion operations. To date, R&D in this area has focused mainly on developing reliable and accurate models for drilling and completion operations, and has not focused on how these models are used in practice. Examples from recent managed pressure operations in North Sea wells are presented. These examples give insight into how such models can best be utilized in the future.In these examples dynamic models were used to calculate target surface pressure to keep open hole pressure within narrow margins between fracture and pore pressures. Models were utilized under several displacement operations, including liner cementing, to determine how to regulate choke pressure to compensate for changes in density and rheology. Important factors leading to a successful operation were 1) update of input parameters, 2) model calibration prior to critical operations, and 3) good communication with the drilling crew.Based on the experience from these operations, the paper discusses in detail how to move to the development of future software tools that make advanced dynamic models more accessible for all kinds of operations. Some key points of this vision are: Models are directly linked to real time dataModels are integrated with intelligent algorithms that automatically interpret deviations between measured data and model predictionsModels and diagnosis algorithms are integrated with data acquisition systems and run real time driven by real time data.Models do not require the presence of model experts.This aims at a software system that is useful also for personnel with little knowledge and experience in advanced modeling during drilling operations. This will provide more reliable monitoring of all drilling and completion operations, reliable warning when operations become critical, and help lead the crew through critical phases of the well. This will lead to a reduction in non-productive time through better decision making and improved focus on critical operations.
The Effect of Elongational Flow Through the Drill Bit on the Rheology of Polymeric Drilling Fluids
Authors: Lozano J. , Miska S. , Takach N. , Yu M. , Saasen A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Polymers have been used in drilling fluids for different purposes. They serve as emulsifiers and lubricants, reduce filtration, stabilize clays, flocculate drilled solids, increase carrying capacity and reduce drag among other functions1. Because of the wide use of polymers in the petroleum industry it is extremely important to investigate the actual performance of the fluid downstream of the drill bit nozzle and the effect of elongational flow on the molecular chains of the polymer.
This paper presents the results of experiments performed in an indoor flow loop at the facilities of Tulsa University Drilling Research Projects (TUDRP). The data obtained from the experiments was analyzed and compared at upstream and downstream conditions. Samples of the fluid before and after experiments were taken for rheological analysis and for comparison. Also, the samples were used to measure and analyze the change in molecular weight.
A model that compares the strain rates developed at the nozzle and the critical strain of the fluid is presented.
The results of this study yield valuable information on the effect of elongational flow through the drill bit nozzle on the rheology of polymeric fluids.
Investigating Solids-Carrying Capacity for an Optimized Hydraulics Program in Aerated Polymer-Based-Fluid Drilling
Authors: Lourenço A. M. F. , Martins A. L. , Andrade P. H. , Nakagawa E. Y. 
Published: December 2007

AbstractThis paper concludes the analysis of the results from two sets of experimental tests performed at PETROBRAS real scale test facility aiming the evaluation of solids return times in aerated fluid drilling. It reviews important results on effects such as liquid and gas injection rates and particle diameter from air-water experiments1 and extend the discussion by adding the effect of the viscosity of liquid phase and annular back pressure on the transport capacity of solids in a vertical well with an aerated polymer-based drilling fluid. Results indicate that the gas has a major effect in accelerating the liquid phase, which would be responsible for carrying the particles to the surface. The trend was confirmed in the experiments with polymer-based mud, where lesser return times were associated with the fluids with higher liquid-phase viscosity. The concept of actual liquid velocity coupled with a procedure for particle sedimentation velocity calculation in non-Newtonian fluids adequately reproduced the experimental results.
Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD): Planning a Solution for San Joaquin Field, Venezuela
Authors: Soto R. , Malavé J. , Medina M. , Díaz C. 
Published: December 2007

AbstractLocated in Eastern Venezuela, San Joaquin Field, with a daily production of about 800 mmcfgd, is the most important gas field in Venezuela.Vertical wells have been drilled through two shale/sandstone-layered formations where the gas payzones are located. The extent of the drilling problems is reflected in the 2003 average fluid losses, which were more than 2000 barrels per well. If it is added the non-tangibles as the uncertainty of consequences in mud weight changes, we have the perfect setting for new thoughts on well planning, being Managed Pressure Drilling the logic next step, with the vision towards reducing problems, time and cost.The two most important formations are Merecure, with 1500 ft of thickness and 25 layers (pressure ranges between 4000 psi and 700 psi) with shale intercalations that add an attention point for the field complexity. San Juan Formation has its own considerations, with upper layers depleted and fractured, and a pressure differential of 2000 psi with lower layers that have high economical interest in the near future.The first challenge was to generate a geomechanic model, which used "breakout control" theories, for the development of the mud weight window to assure hole stability during drilling operations.Well control optimisation for high productivity layers where under balance conditions applied was a fundamental consideration due to environmental regulations, surface equipment design and ECD control.Well planning included "effective ROP increase" criterions, high durability drill bits, aggressive performance for favourable drilling conditions and parameters control in a target oriented philosophy. All of these relevant issues were the synergistic points for engineering and operations integration.Actually, five wells have been drilled without lost circulation reports, notable increase in ROP and a reduction in total drill bits used. These have been important results and a very good start for the learning curve in this technology implementation.The MPD experience in San Joaquín Field is one of the first formally recorded in Venezuela and with these results it can be said that this technology will be in this country for a long time.