bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Current State of the Art of MWD and Its Application in Exploration and Development Drilling
Authors: Gearhart M. , Moseley L. M. , Foster M. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Today, Measurements While Drilling (MWD) is a widely available and accepted service industry in the international marketplace. As it has matured, the focus has shifted from the novelty of telemetry to the measurements themselves; what can be measured, and how can that information be of value?
The most widely used and best understood service is the directional survey. The promptness and accuracy of MWD surveys has proven to be of real value in the control of difficult directional wells. The MWD service of formation measurements is growing. It is being used, not only for marker selection, but as the sole logging service for some footage. In exploratory wells, the immediate nature of the logs takes some of the guesswork out of the real-time decisions and the quality of measurements made in an undamaged borehole improves interpretation. Evaluation also continues on a host of MWD sensors that bear on the efficiency, safety and control of drilling.
Latest Developments in Tanker-Based FPSO Systems
Authors: d'Hautefeuille B. , Remery G. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Nine floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) systems utilizing tankers (or barges) anchored by single point moorings have been installed or are under construction.
Since the first FPSO system began operation in 1976 a total of almost 40 system-years operational experience has been accumulated. As a result of this experience, component design reflects the particular FPSO environment and reliability has been much improved while system downtime has been reduced.
After broadly describing the nine FPSO facilities, the operational experience of the most essential components and subsystems are detailed. The key elements include: the mooring system, the fluid transfer system, the processing equipment and the cargo offloading system.
Emphasis is put on the fluid transfer system which includes high pressure flexible risers and high pressure swivels accommodating independent paths for crude, gas and water. The principal results are given for a research program investigating high pressure seals for large diameter swivels.
The paper concludes with a near-future forecast of FPSO applications.
The Bluewater Tower Wishbone Mooring System
Authors: van Heijst W. J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The "TOWER WISHBONE MOORING SYSTEM" – a Bluewater concept, is particularly suited to marginal oil field developments in areas with moderate seas and shallow to medium water depths, or where exceptional conditions call for disconnection of the tanker at short notice. Such areas could be those where typhoons occur, or where icebergs or irregular ice coverage may endanger the tanker.
Application of a Tower Wishbone Mooring as a single point mooring for a storage or floating production system eliminates many of the drawbacks of previous SPMs. Those systems usually incorporated a CALM or SALM buoy with the tanker moored via a rigid arm. Elasticity was provided by the buoy's anchoring with the accompanying inconvenience of underwater articulations and/or flexible flowlines.
The Bluewater system is based on the principle of the tanker being moored to a rigid jacket via flexible yokes. Gravity weights incorporated in the yokes are suspended from the jacket via tension members attached to a turntable, thereby allowing the moored tanker to weathervane.
Computerized Field System for Real-Time Monitoring and Analysis of Hydraulic Fracturing Operations
Authors: Cleary M. P. , Buharali A. M. , Crockett A. R. , Salehi I. A. 
Published: December 2007

Summary
A new calibre of systems, generically denoted as RT-MACS, has been designed and developed for the monitoring, analysis and potential control of hydraulic fracturing treatments in real-time during the field operation. A number of prototypes have been built, based on state-of-the-art computer hardware, ranging from super minicomputers to entirely portable systems. They perform the complete spectrum of functions: data-acquisition from calibrated sensors, data-processing and storage in the central facility, display of processed data on scrolling windows, simulation of the overall process, using realistic engineering models for analysis, and display of overall status, including model results. The models used are unique in many respects: they use real-time data as input; they employ a novel history-matching scheme to determine elusive reservoir and fluid parameters in real-time; and they use the most advanced threedimensional analysis to make calculations for pressures, height, width and length of fractures. Both trailer-transported and portable system prototypes have been suc-cessfully implemented in a number of commercial field operations, running without disruption in standard jobs on cooperative wells provided by interested producing com-panies; their presence had sufficient practical impact that the portable systems are now being offered on a broader scale throughout the industry.
High-Strength Microsphere Additive Improves Cement Performance in Gulf of Bohai
Authors: Wu C. , Onan D. D. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Operators in the Gulf of Bohai have practically eliminated remedial squeeze cementing requirements by using encapsulated air as a lightweight cement additive. Air entrapped in hollow beads composed mostly of silicon and aluminum is added to the slurry to allow for mixtures lighter than water, but with necessary strength to provide good primary cement jobs.
Cementing in the Gulf of Bohai is made difficult by bottom-hole static temperatures (BHST) of 275–320°F (135–160°C). Specific gravity of the mud is 1.1 to 1.3. Most wells have three to eight productive zones, making good isolation between zones critical to drillstem testing and future production work. Use of high-strength microspheres (HSMS) as a cement additive has improved primary casing and liner cementing to the point that remedial squeeze cementing in the Gulf of Bohai is now a rarity.
An Overview and Evaluation of the North Burbank Unit Block A Polymer Flood Project, Osage County, Oklahoma
Authors: Zornes D. R. , Cornelius A. J. , Long H. Q. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
The North Burbank Unit Block A polymerflood project was initiated in September 1980, with the injection of a fresh water preflush into 36 wells within the 1,440-acre [582.7 ha] project area. An economic production response has occurred from the use of the Phillips in-depth polymer-aluminum citrate-polymer process in this naturally fractured sandstone reservoir. The oil production rate now averages over 30,000 BOPM [4,769 m3/M] (mid-1985) from a pre-project rate of less than 15,000 BOPM [2,385 m3/M] and the producing water-oil-ratio (WOR) has been reduced from over 100 to less than 50. Total cumulative oil recovery is projected at over 4.4MM STB [0.67MM m3], near 85% of the pre-project projection, assuming an economic limit of 2 BOPD [0.31 m3/D] per well.
The chemical injection sequence has included 500 ppm active polymer augmented by 500 ppm aluminum citrate crosslinking agent, 250 ppm polymer, 50 ppm polymer, a fresh water postflush, and finally produced brine injection. A total of 4.17 MM pounds [1.89MM kg] of polyacrylamide was injected into 36 wells. Fresh water and polymer production were monitored at 84 producing wells in an attempt to correlate with oil production response.
This paper summarizes the design, operation, monitoring, response, and cost of the polymerflood project. Economical and technical factors to be considered in an expansion project in the North Burbank Unit or in application of the Phillips polymer process in other reservoirs are addressed.
Polyacrylamide Vertical Conformance Process Improved Sweep Efficiency and Oil Recovery in the OK Field
Authors: Surkalo H. , Pitts M. J. , Sloat B. , Larsen D. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
The OK field is located in Campbell County, Wyoming, USA. The field produces from approximately 8050 ft. (2454 m) and is operated by Universal Resources. The reservoir exhibits a high Dykstra-Parsons variation factor of 0.85 and a mobility ratio of 2.5. The reservoir was produced on primary for approximately 2 years and produced 3.8% OOIP (0.03 PV). Ultimate primary oil recovery was estimated to be 11.8% OOIP (0.09 PV). A waterflood was initiated in a single well and water was injected for 3 months. At that time, the well was treated to improve vertical conformance with a cationic and anionic polyacrylamide and aluminum process. Two production wells were later converted to injection with chemical treatment coincident with water injection. Total recovery of oil as a result of primary recovery and polymer augmented waterflooding was 41.9% OOIP (0.31 PV) as of June 1985. An estimate of 671,035 bbls of incremental oil was produced as a result of the chemical process.
Laboratory radial corefloods designed to evaluate additional chemical oil recovery processes indicate that the potential for additional recovery exists. Mobility control polymer and alkaline-polymer injection into adjacent fields' core and fluid systems recover 0.10 PV and 0.15 PV, respectively, additional oil beyond the waterflood. Surfactant systems (micellar-polymer and low concentration surfactant-polymer) recover an additional 0.31 PV beyond the waterflood in an OK field fluid system.
Evaluation of Gravel Blending and Pumping Techniques for Accurate Control and Protection of the Gravel During the Gravel Packing Operation
Authors: Solum J. R. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Due to the high cost of accurately screened gravel and the importance of not breaking or crushing it; the treatment and placement of gravel with surface equipment is a primary factor in proper sand control. Over a period of years various tests have been performed on the placement of gravel. Tables will show the results of the various methods of metering gravel into the completion fluid stream and the results of the efficiency of the gravel pack versus the metering systems. Flow diagrams of the surface gravel placement system and pumping systems will be shown together with photographs of the test operations, both laboratory and field.
Special laboratory equipment was manufactured to accurately inject gravel into the fluid stream. The various progression of this equipment and the field tests of accurate gravel control in the fluid stream will be shown. Test data, together with field data will show the various displacement rates and fluid gravel ratios. Tests are shown of methods to inject gravel into the fluid stream after the pump, to prevent breakage of the gravel during the pumping of the gravel through the pump valves. Results and tables will show the high variance in fluid gravel ratios under the various systems that gravel is now being pumped into the well.
This paper will summarize the methods and equipment being used to pump gravel in the well, together with lab test results and field results. It shows the importance of proper gravel control and treatment of the gravel during the gravel packing operation.
Scale Control During Waterflooding Operations: A Field Appraisal of Inhibitor Requirements and Performance
Authors: Tanner R. N. , Wittingham K. P. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
To achieve effective scale control when implementing a sea water flooding operation, several facets of the operation must be addressed. The characteristics and potential for scale damage associated with sea water injection, from the injection wells through to the production wells and production facilities following subsequent sea water breakthrough, must be carefully considered. Problems vary in magnitude, for example from increased maintenance costs to at worst malfunction of safety equipment or lost production. Additionally, the scales can be radioactive and consequently require careful handling if they are not to pose hazards to operating personnel.
There is a considerable incentive to implement effective control measures. This paper outlines the experiences of scaling associated with the operation of the Forties Field in the UKCS. It describes the methods used to identify the extent of scaling problems encountered during field operations. It also describes the chemical inhibitor deployment procedures used and discusses the Field techinques employed to monitor the performance of inhibitors.
The principles behind the evaluation could be applied to many operating oilfields with potential scaling problems.
The Role of Reservoir Simulation in Optimal Reservoir Management
Authors: Thomas G. W. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper discusses the role reservoir simulators play in formulating initial development plans, history matching and optimising future production and in planning and designing enhanced oil recovery projects. The Hibernia Field in Canada and the Hassi R'Mel in Algeria illustrate how simulation can be used to assist in initial reservoir development. The Lookout Butte Rundle (Alberta) and others are cited to exemplify optimisation of future production plans with the aid of simulation. Finally, applications to several reported EOR projects are briefly discussed with major emphasis concentrating on the Bati Raman Field in Turkey.
Evaluation of Long-Term Proppant Stability
Authors: Cobb S. L. , Farrell J. J. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper presents initial results of a new testing program initiated to determine the performance of natural and man-made ceramic proppants over extended periods of time (months). The mechanisms involved in proppant performance are related to chemical and crystallographic makeup, as well as to processes used in their manufacture. Definition of the mechanisms controlling proppant behavior will allow future product development work to be concentrated on improving performance characteristics.
Data from standarized API permeability/ conductivity testing are presented with a summary of previous long term testing. Results are coupled with new long term permeability data and acid reactivity data. Chemical and crystal structure phase analyses are also reviewed. The various tests were performed on a variety of oxide ceramics (intermediate and high strength proppants) as well as quartz sand.
The long term data show that, after an initial period of consolidation, reductions in permeability over time are very slight for the commercial ceramic proppants tested at conditions of 69 MPa stress, 93°C, flowing a 2% KCl brine. Efforts made to correlate long term performance to short term acid reactivity have not been successful. It is unlikely that the long term performance of different classes of proppant can be compared by analyzing standard acid reactivity data.
Artificial Lift by Hydraulic Turbine-Driven Downhole Pumps: Its Development, Application, and Selection
Authors: Manson D. M. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
With the increased use of Secondary Oil Recovery Techniques and in particular of pumped artificial lift systems, there was a requirement for a more reliable, flexible and robust form of downhole pump. To this end the author's company has developed the Hydraulic Turbine Drive Downhole Pump. This paper examines the background to and the development of the unit together with a detailed step by step description as to the methods and procedures used when selecting a suitable downhole pump/turbine configuration, for either an oil or water lift application.
Technical Aspects of a Joint China/Canada Mobile Offshore Production System
Authors: Cao J. Z. , Chen K. W. , Gibb P. R. , Gu M. X. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Two new mooring system designs suitable for mobile offshore production system have been developed. Both designs are based on field-proven principles and possess excellent dynamic characteristics. The two systems can be completely and easily relocated and their quick disconnect/reconnect feature allows the vessel to quickly depart in case of typhoons.
Elements Affecting Thickening Time of a Cement Blend
Authors: Cobb J. A. , Pace R. S. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper is a continued study of the work presented in SPE 13041, "Improved Bulk Blending Techniques for Accurate and Uniform Cement Blends." Further investigation was conducted to better understand the factors which affect the physical performance of a cement blend, specifically the thickening time. The variability of neat cement was found to be one of the main elements affecting the thickening time. Cement samples from one load of cement and samples from many different loads were seen to differ significantly in thickening time. It was determined that standard thickening time tests do not necessarily indicate the true responsiveness of a cement. Effects of sampling procedures on thickening times and additive distributi on were investigated. Placement of sample valves was found to be an important factor affecting the sampling. Using proper sampling procedures and by conducting pilot tests with the same cement used to blend a job, thickening times can be correlated between the laboratory and the field. The effects of offshore transportation and transfer of cement blends to the rig were also examined. The uniformity of the cement did not change with the transfer from the boat to the rig with hematite or retarding additives.
A Simple Implicit Model for Thermal Cracking of Crude Oils
Authors: Millour J. P. , Moore R. G. , Bennion D. W. , Ursenbach M. G. , Gie D. N. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
Thermal cracking product distributions are presented for three oils (8°API, 13°API and 24°API). Tests were performed on oxidized and unoxidized samples (water and rock matrix present) at temperatures of 360°C, 397°C and 420°C for periods of time up to 48 hours. Product yields are reported as weight percent coke, asphaltenes, maltenes and non-condensible gas. Seven sets of experimental data are reported.
Previous thermal cracking kinetic models have been unable to reproduce the following product distribution: The initial time delay in coke production.The early time transfer between maltenes and asphaltenes content.
A simple implicit model which requires a small number of parameters has been developed. It gives a good match of all the experimental sets. The model consists of coke formation versus temperature relationship which contains two parameters; a temperature independent relationship between coke and maltenes; a temperature independent relationship relating coke and maltenes to asphaltenes; and a mass balance to calculate the amount of non-condensible gas.
The model is simple to use and provides an excellent check for the consistency of experimental data. It can very easily be implemented into a numerical simulator.
Laboratory Studies and Field Evaluation of a New Gelant for High-Temperature Profile Modification
Authors: Chang P. W. , Goldman I. M. , Stingley K. J. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper reports the laboratory development and initial field testing of FLOPERM™ 325, a novel gelant for high temperature profile modification.
The new gelant is a synthetic, thermosetting material which can be used at concentrations of about 1-2% in injection brines. Its gelation rate can be controlled over the range of several hours to about 10 days at temperatures of up to 221°F (105°C), permitting emplacement at varying distances from the injector wellbore. In sandpack testing to simulate gelant performance under reservoir conditions, the new system reduced permeability to brine by more than 90% while retaining most of the original permeability to oil. Moreover, in parallel sandpack tests the gelant selectively reduced permeability in the zone with higher initial permeability. Emplaced gels have retained functional stability in sandpacks for more than ten months at 197°F (92°C).
An injector well test of the gelant was performed at ARCO's Nelson Minnelusa Unit ((197°F (92°C), in Campbell County, Wyoming)) in March, 1984. A 2000-bbl solution was emplaced in the formation over a two-and-one-half day period. Injection profiles showed diversion of injection brines from a water channel to the oil payzone. Enhanced oil recovery and decreased water cut were observed within several months of the treatment and are continuing.
Steam Soak Predictive Model
Authors: Gros R. P. , Pope G. A. , Lake L. W. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
This paper presents the results of a predictive model (SSPM) to assess the feasibility of steam soaks in various prospective reservoirs at low computational cost. SSPM requires only a small fraction of the computing time needed by numerical simulators, yet is capable of producing quantitatively good results. Run times are on the order of one second or less; hence, economic analysis is both feasible and inexpensive for multiple runs.
The model uses an energy balance which is a refined and extended version of that presented by Boberg and Lantz. SSPM uses time-dependent average saturations calculated from a simple material balance, and temperature-dependent relative permeability relationships to calculate the flow rates of the reservoir fluids. The pressure and temperature behavior of both formation and fluids is used to calculate the average reservoir pressure as a function of time. This pressure and temperature is used in a productivity model to calculate oil and water production rates. The model is capable of predicting the performance of a multi-layer reservoir for one or several cycles. Extension to any number of productive layers and shales of different properties is only one of several significant improvements over previous models of this type.
The paper presents the theoretical work leading to the model, its validation on a field case, and a brief sensitivity study.
Field Measurements of Downhole Drillstring Vibrations
Authors: Wolf S. F. , Zacksenhouse M. , Arian A. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
NL's Wire Telemetry System was used in the field to provide high-data-rate measurements of downhole forces, accelerations, pressures and formation properties. This paper describes, and briefly discusses, downhole longitudinal and lateral vibrations and their correlation with formation characteristics.
Whi1e drilling through hard formations with a tricone bit, smooth drilling was achieved after increasing the rotary speed above the longitudinal resonant condition. The system resonant frequency was significantly lower than the natural frequency of the drillstring.
Downhole bending moments up to 25Kft-1b were measured while drilling in a straight hole. Fluctuations in the bending moments, about the two lateral axes of the drillstring, were at frequencies 3.5 to 5.5 times that of the rotary speed.
Supplemental Anode System for Offshore Structures
Authors: Plugge J. R. , Deacon-Davis N. A. , Koehler W. M. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACT
A supplemental anode system was developed for the Hondo A platform which introduced two new techniques for installing galvanic anodes on deepwater offshore structures. The system includes: 1) the installation of tubular strings or anode piles lowered through the jacket structure and electrically connected at the lower deck elevation by welding, and 2) the installation of discrete structural units or anode pods set on the seafloor and electrically connected to the platform with cables.