bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ten Years Experience in Horizontal Application & Pushing The Limits Of Well Construction Approach In Upper Zakum Field (Offshore Abu Dhabi)
Authors: Ismail Gamal , Fada'q A. S. , Kikuchi S. , El Khatib H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Over the past ten years, Zakum Development Company (ZADCO) Offshore Abu-Dhabi has drilled over 225 wells including 175 horizontal wells using different types of steerable drilling techniques.
Steerable drilling is a vital factor for horizontal drilling applications. Steerable drilling assembly selection is fundamental for wellbore quality improvement to minimise the pipe-sticking incidence and provide coiled tubing accessibility for barefoot horizontal completions. These lead to reducing overall drilling costs significantly.
Through ten years of steerable drilling experience, ZADCO recognise the following:
1) Drilling multilateral horizontal wells has created some economic risks and technical drawbacks: Well intervention requirements, accessibility and stimulation or cleaning individual lateral branches, reservoir monitoring or controlling production/injection profile. 2) There are still invisible operating loss times due to the lack of learning steerable drilling.
Pushing the limits of well construction performance and economics in the new millennium is the main target of ZADCO drilling team.
Engineering data base is the most effective tool to give clear ideas how to improve the performance and reduce the well construction cost. It identify the reasons behind the variation value of Non Productive Time (NPT) and invisible lost time in each phase and how to eliminate it
Engineered database gathering, historical problem experienced, well construction optimisation, integrated skilled teamwork spirits, and using the related new technology are the main key issue to apply Drilling The Limit (DTL) concept aiming to deliver quality well at less expenditure.
Well construction (performance) optimization and trouble free and high quality well delivery are considered essential issues for the economics of drilling wells and introducing new related technologies. Our approach is to identify the areas needed to be modified, for further improvement, through study and analysis of the previous wells drilled.
The vital importance of inter-discipline communication throughout reservoir model construction - case study
Authors: Parker A. R. , Shikama T. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Much has been written with respect to "multi-disciplinary" studies, however, in practice the disciplines still essentially operate independently, with only the input/outputs integrating together in the workflow. This paper outlines a case study, which demonstrates the success of a much closer working relationship across the Geologic/Engineering disciplines. In particular, emphasis is placed upon the benefits of reversible workflows between Geology and Engineering throughout the entire construction process.
The Field, which is the subject of the case study, is in the appraisal stage (6 well penetrations, no production) and is composed of a series of stacked Carbonate reservoirs located in shallow water offshore of the UAE. Main areas of challenge during construction of the models were; honouring observed multiple fluid contacts, lithofacies determination, 2D seismic uncertainties and non-intuitive production testing results. The vital key to resolving/matching these challenges was linking capillary pressure functions to lithofacies identifiers prior to model construction. Then throughout the construction process a series of forward/backward optimisations of geological parameters driven by both disciplines.
The resultant models are simpler than those produced in the past for similar fields. However, most importantly, a number of previously mysterious observed "problems" were resolved through the necessity of a truly integrated multidisciplinary approach. This resulted in a greater understanding of reservoir properties, allowing better matching of all observed data. This in turn gives greater confidence in the predictability of the models produced.
Vertical Transmissibility Assessment Across Stylolites in Stratified Carbonate Reservoir – A Field Experience
Authors: Al-Ansari Faisal , Konwar Lakshi Singha , Urasaki Daisuke , Parker Andrew , Hiraoka Takashi , Mitsuishi Hiroshi 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
One of the key uncertainties that impacts reservoir development and waterflood performance in a thick reservoir is vertical transmissibility across the stylolitic intervals. It is not clearly understood whether low vertical permeability or negative capillary pressure across stylolites holds the water from slumping, because both the realizations could achieve good history matches of observed well performances (water cut and pressure except MDT/RFT) in the simulation model. It is, therefore, crucial to calibrate the simulation model using field test results before it can be used to produce a reliable forecast. A comprehensive dualwell vertical interference testing program using a singleprobe formation tester was designed1 and implemented in a stratified carbonate reservoir in Upper Zakum Field. This paper presents the results of a time-lapsed dual-well vertical interference test that enabled assessment of the degree of vertical communication across various sub-zones and quantification of in-situ vertical permeability on a reservoir scale.
The testing procedure involves a partial penetration well test followed by the generation of a pressure wave by a partially penetrating well which is monitored in an offset, fully penetrating well via time lapse MDT measurements. Upon completion of the inter-well interference test, a vertical interference test is conducted in the observer well by using a dual-packer, dual-probe MDT tool.
Analytic methods were initially utilized followed by construction of a 3D numerical sector model to match the observed data in order to estimate vertical permeability. Results indicate that there are no vertical permeability barriers present except in the bottom part of the reservoir that could account for the water over-ride of oil seen in the test well. Thus, low vertical permeability is discounted and presumably, capillary pressure barriers may be responsible for preventing slumping of injected water within the reservoir. This finding will have a significant impact upon future field development planning particularly with regard to well design (orientation, location and benefit of lateralisation). More importantly, the results can be utilized to calibrate the full field model culminating in a credible dynamic simulation model to produce accurate future prediction cases.
A Plastic Pre-Coated Gravel for Controlling Formation Sand
Authors: Underdown David R. , Day Jon C. , Sparlin Derry D. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Results of field tests and laboratory evaluation have shown that a plastic pre-coated gravel system is a successful method of sand control for both non-thermal and thermal wells. Significant improvements in this process have been made which provide higher compressive strengths, increased quality of coating, greater chemical and thermal stability and higher permeability of the consolidated gravel. These results have been obtained by using higher quality gravel, an improved coating process and improved placement techniques.
Full scale pumping tests and actual field results indicate that this system provides a consolidated gravel pack capable of controlling sand production without impairing fluid production. The use of this type of material even prior to the improvements has provided good sand control in both injection and production wells in the offshore Gulf Coast region for over a year. Field results in the San Joaquin Valley, California have demonstrated that it is also well suited for sand control in moderate temperature thermal wells. Wells using both steam drive and huff-and-puff methods of stimulation which have employed this improved plastic coated gravel have increased production and virtually eliminated bailing of sand.
Federal Government Role in Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Adams Martin 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Good Morning, Mr. Chairman, members of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, distinguished guests including our many visitors from other countries, and all of you who are interested in Enhanced Oil Recovery. I am pleased to be here on the occasion of the first Joint SPE-DOE Symposium on Enhanced Oil Recovery. This is the sixth in a series of biennial meetings sponsored by the Mid-Continent Section of the SPE and also is the sixth annual meeting sponsored by the DOE and our predecessor agencies. This particular meeting is an excellent way to determine if the respective aims of our two organizations can be adequately served by such a joint meeting. Based upon the excellent program that is in store over the next three days and the fine attendance, I am very encouraged about the future prospects of joint meetings such as this one.
I am here today in the place of Secretary Duncan who unfortunately could not arrange this meeting into his schedule. My responsibility as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oil, Gas and Shale Technology includes DOE's program for research on enhanced oil recovery. I regard this as an extremely high priority area because of the potential of EOR to make significant contributions to domestic supplies of liquid fuels in the decade of the 80's and beyond.
The translation of potential to crude oil to the tank will happen only if industry decides to do it. And this must take place within the framework created by our laws and Government policy.
Examination of Techniques for Thermally Efficient Delivery of Steam to Deep Reservoirs
Authors: Johnson Donald R. , Fox Ronald L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The major objective of Project DEEP STEAM is to develop the technology required to economically recover heavy oil from deep reservoirs. One approach to achieve this objective involves the evaluation and modification to improve the thermal efficiency of the delivery processes for surface generated steam.
A full-scale test facility for evaluation of well completion components has been constructed. The testing of insulated injection strings and high temperature packers utilizes a seventy-foot above-ground tower capable of operation to 700°F and 3000 psi steam injection pressure; most of the testing has been carried out at 640°F and 2100 psi injection pressure. The tower is instrumented for measurement of parameters required to evaluate performance of individual completion components. The measured parameters are analyzed through computational programs to predict the comparative economics of the well completion in a specific recovery project. Various approaches to insulation of injection strings have been investigated. Insulation materials tested include calcium silicate, mineral wool, and multi-layered radiation barriers and insulating fibers. High temperature packers from various manufacturers have also been examined. All the commercial packers tested utilized non-elastomeric sealing materials consisting of combinations of asbestos with stainless steel and carbon fibers.
The results of tests for a variety of insulation and packer combinations reveal that casing temperatures and tubing heat losses can be successfully reduced by currently available components, but that most of the systems evaluated are not likely to survive long term or repeated use in their present form. Recommendations for further development of the hardware components required for improved, thermally efficient delivery systems are presented.
A Check on Numerical Thermal Simulation
Authors: Myhill Norton A. 
Published: December 2007

Summary
This paper describes a test of thermal numerical simulation. A three phase, three dimensional, numerical simulator duplicates reasonably well a complex laboratory steam drive. The laboratory steam drive was in a glass bead pack and was conducted at subatmospheric pressures. Since the matched steam drive was a laboratory one, much of the basic input data to the simulator was measured. The simulator used injection rate and reservoir pressure as input variables and calculated gross production, oil production, injection pressure and steam zone position as output variables. There is a close match between the simulator output and the experimental results.
Single Well Cyclic Method for Determining in Situ Chemical Retention
Authors: Satter Abdus , Shum Yick-Mow , Widmyer Richard H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Reliable data on chemical retention in the reservoir is vital for designing chemical floods. A multiwell pilot can provide the needed information; however, such a project is expensive and time-consuming. Experience has shown that a chemical flood pilot can fall short of the predicted performance using the laboratory data and mathematical model studies. An alternative approach for obtaining retention under the reservoir condition is from a short duration, low cost field test using only a single well.
The proposed technique entails multiple cycles of injection of a tertiary chemical solution containing a non-adsorbing tracer, soaking and production from the same well. The concept initially was verified by tests conducted in laboratory core cells. A mathematical model also was developed for simulating the cyclic test. Finally, a field test was carried out in a well in the Manvel Field, Brazoria County, Texas, where a pilot chemical flood was underway.
This paper presents the results of the aforementioned investigation. It is concluded that the single well cyclic test is a potentially viable, short term, low cost technique for determining chemical retention in situ. The test may bridge the gap between the laboratory and pilot floods. Data obtained from such a test could yield scale-up criteria for designing and implementing a full scale pilot, or in determining the feasibility of even undertaking a project.
Rock Structure and Transport Therein: Unifying with Voroni Models and Percolation Concepts
Authors: Pathak Prabodh , Winterfeld Phillip H. , Davis H. Ted , Scriven L. E. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Matrix and pores of rock form irregular, interpenetrating, networK-like structures with interrelated shapes and connectivities that are statistical variables resulting from the nature of the original sediments and the diagenetic processes they have suffered. Transport properties of either network depend on geometry, i.e. size and shape distributions; transport depends equally on the number of transport paths, or distribution of connectivity, i.e. topology. Thus different structural properties and transport processes in rock matrix and in pore space are interrelated.
This theoretical prediction is studied by means of the Voronoi construction for subdividing space, which provides precisely defined, realistically irregular models of rock and of distributions therein of fluids, conductivity, permeability, strength, etc. Geometry and topology of the models are coded into matrices that are useful for thinking about structure and transport, and which become factors in illustrative calculations of electrical conductivity, Young's modulus, and fracture strength as functions of, for example, porosity. The results show percolation thresholds: cessation (or onset) of transport when a critical fraction of paths is randomly blocked (or created). Statistical features of structure and transport are the subject of percolation theory.
The results help focus experimental studies and point to a unified picture of structure, strength, and transport.
Salt Water Disposal
Authors: Ellison W.F. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper begins with a short review of current state legislation directed toward the satisfactory disposal of salt water. An example is cited of the progress the oil industry has made in meeting the problems involved in disposing of salt water in the most economic manner while complying with certain state regulations.
Methods of disposal, types of disposal systems, and the considerations involved in selecting the best method to use under given conditions are discussed. The paper enumerates the various components of a disposal system and discusses the selection of materials used in the construction of a salt water disposal system. A few paragraphs are devoted to the problems encountered during construction. The paper contains the writer's interpretation of the importance and reasons for a concentrated effort toward properly maintaining such systems after installation.
Conclusions provide a few basic concepts that should be considered in the evaluation, design, construction, and maintenance of salt water disposal systems:During the past few years, there has been a sharp increase in the demand and a decrease in the availability of fresh water for residential and commercial uses. A definite need, therefore, exists for a continued concentration of efforts toward the elimination of pollution of the nation's fresh water resources. Proper disposal of waste brine is the oil industry's contribution to the solution of this problem.The importance of an economical solution to the problem of disposing of salt water is illustrated by the fact that on a national scale approximately three barrels of waste fluids are produced for each barrel of commercial crude.From an economical and operational standpoint, the use of semi-closed systems has proven to be successful in most instances.Experience has shown that with the proper emphasis on economics, a selection of the best corrosion-resistant materials would be advisable for use in salt water disposal systems.Good planning and close inspection of construction on salt water disposal projects has been beneficial in lowering future maintenance costs.Provision for periodic cleaning of gathering and injection facilities has proven to be profitable from an operational standpoint.

Introduction
Salt water is a by-product obtained from the production of oil for which there is no apparent economic value except in its use as a reservoir repressuring or flooding agent. It is a waste product that is often produced in large quantities with the recovery of crude from an underground reservoir. Salt water is an expensive item to the oil producer.
A Unique Insulation System for Steam Injection Enhanced Recovery and Geothermal Wells
Authors: Brown Victor R. R. , Lorenz Alan A. , Prevost William M. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Wellbore heat loss and steam quality downhole, at the sandface, are primary factors affecting the performance of steam injection wells used in enhanced oil recovery. Secondary factors critical to steam injection operations are casing thermal stress and packer seal integrity. A practical, durable, and economical insulated downhole steam tubular system has been developed by the General Electric Company, Advanced Energy Department, Thermal Systems, in Tacoma, Washington. This insulated tubular is the latest product in the General Electric patented "ThermoCase" line of insulated downhole oilfield products and is designated "ThermoCase III".
The new insulated tubing allows deeper wells, protects old wells, improves steam quality, oil production, and simplifies completion design. A.P.I. standard tubulars, installation procedures, and rig equipment are used. Evolved from successful deployment at Prudhoe Bay, the welded double tube construction with expansion bellows, hermetically sealed, provides high performance insulation, protects tubular threads, and maintains low casing temperature when flowing 635°F (335°C), 2000 psi (141 kg/cm2), steam. Initial applications of ThermoCase III in Canadian heavy oil, and tar sands in California and Venezuela are now underway.
A thermal description of the product along with a discussion of a number of verification test results will be given. In addition, thermal/structural and financial/economic computerized analysis results will be given for a typical steam injection field application with 635°F (335°C) saturated steam at 2000 psia (141 kg/cm2) flowing down a 2300 ft. (701 m) well. In summary, "ThermoCase III" has been designed to give outstanding thermal performance with a nominal overall K-factor of 0.20 Btu-in/ft2-hr-°F (0.028 W/m°K). Typical significant reductions in casing temperature with ThermoCase III versus standard uninsulated steam tubing were determined to be approximately 431 percent. A similar reduction in relative packer axial movement of approximately 734 percent was also realized in the above mentioned example.
Predicting the In-Situ Stress for Deep Wells Using Differential Strain Curve Analysis
Authors: Strickland Frank G. , Ren Nae-Kan 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Recent developments in energy exploration at depths of 5000 to 25,000 feet have made it necessary to quickly and reliably determine the in-situ stresses acting on the wellbore.
Differential Strain Analysis (DSA) is being investigated as a technique applied to core samples to indirectly determine the in-situ stress state.
Testing is being pursued in three steps. First, field measurements of strain are made in-situ as the core is pulled out of the well. Second, the cores are brought to the lab and DSA is performed under in-situ hydrostatic conditions. Third, the rock is examined microscopically.
These tests have been performed on both oriented and non-oriented cores from Texas, Louisiana and Fennsylvania.
At this point in the investigation, it appears very favorable that a reasonably accurate estimate of the 3-dimensional stress state can be obtained using the strain curve analysis method. It has been demonstrated mathematically that not only the ratio of the stresses can be derived but also the orientation of the stresses in free space. The application of these equations to the data from the latest high quality runs yields result well within the reproducible tolerance of other methods.
Polymers For Enhanced Oil Recovery In Reservoirs Of Extremely High Salinities And High Temperatures
Authors: Akstinat Manfred H. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Polymers for low salinity reservoirs and low viscosity crude oils are well known. For sandstone reservoirs with highly concentrated brines of low pH-values, reservoir temperatures up to 80 °C and crude oil viscosities of 20 to 200 mPa⋅s suitable polymers have hitherto not been available. Under consideration of these conditions rapid selection methods for polymers (biopolymers, HEC, PAA/HPAA etc.) were developed. By application of these novel test procedures to about 340 different products several promising polymers, as well as general correlations could be ascertained.
Test results concerning the shear stability, filtration, adsorption/retention and flow of polymer solutions in porous media allow reliable predictions about the efficiency of viscous flooding media.
Moreover quality and application values of suitable polymers for enhanced oil recovery are critically compared. Preselected polymers were tested in laboratory flooding experiments and have shown substantial increases in oil recovery of up to 24% OOIP.