bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Field Development Projects Optimization Integrated to Risk Analysis
Authors: Mezzomo C. C. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Field development planning is a very complex process due to uncertainties, related to the restricted amount of information available for the high number of variables with dynamic behavior. An appropriate evaluation of these uncertainties in the process often requires reservoir simulation associated to optimization algorithms for the optimization of a non-linear objective-function previously stated, regarding the objectives for the project.
Considering the main particular aspects of the objective-function, manual procedures usually are adequated for the optimization of a recovery strategy although they require excessive time from the professionals involved and may not consider all the necessary scenarios in order to avoid long times for projects planning. Some tests have been published with the objective of developing an automatic process but, until this moment, they demand a very large amount of simulations and are unfeasible for actual reservoirs.
The approach for field development plan selection proposed in this work takes advantages of both approaches and is composed by a sequence of manual and automated procedures. This enables to integrate the parameters definition for the development plan to a risk analysis (technical, operational, geological, economic, etc.). The procedure for field development plan selection can still be integrated with an adequate decision analysis using, for example, multi-attributes utility theory.
The main idea is to propose a procedure that can be applied to a large set of reservoirs, providing the fundamentals to choose the most adequate choice for the initial field development, regarding the risks related and objectives classification for the project. The procedure was applied to an example based on a real field and the results, obtained with a low computational cost, were adequate for decision taking respecting the objectives stated to the project.
Enhancing and Sustaining Well Production: Granite Wash, Texas Panhandle
Authors: Ingram Stephen , Paterniti Isaac , Pauls Richard , Rothkopf Brian , Stevenson Chris , Conner John 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper will describe the ongoing Granite Wash completion project in the Buffalo Wallow field in Hemphill and Wheeler Counties, Texas. This study will discuss the reservoir development and characteristics, current and former completion techniques, and production comparisons. The goal for this study is to use best practices gained from a statistical analysis and new chemical technologies for completion procedures in the Granite Wash project utilizing a permeability core testing apparatus for optimized regained permeability in fracturing fluids.
Surface modification agents (SMAs) and their coating onto proppant have been applied in treatments of thousands of wells in the last 10 years and have undeniably improved their productivity in terms of production rates and duration. The coating of these SMA materials has been found to dramatically enhance the recovery of aqueous-based fracturing fluids during well cleanup after fracturing treatments. As a result, a significant improvement in gas production has been observed in treated wells. Friction-reduction polymer anti-flocculants have been developed to reduce the tendency of these polymers to damage the proppant pack/reservoir interface, resulting in a decreased effective fracture length. A nonionic, micro-emulsion surfactant has been developed to reduce capillary pressure in producing hydraulic fractures via surface tension reduction and contact angle modification. These chemicals have been used in various combinations; the field results as well as testing results will be presented.
A patented low-permeability core testing apparatus has tested two granite wash core samples from the Buffalo Wallow field for regained permeability using friction-reduction polymer anti-flocculants, SMAs (specifically diagenesis protective agents), and micro-emulsion surfactants. In addition, basic water-frac additive packages have been applied to continue the optimization of water fracs in the Texas Panhandle to increase long-term natural gas production.
The data from those tests and field case histories will be discussed.
Pressure and Separation Performance of Oil/Water Hydrocyclones
Authors: Jiang Minghu , Zhao Lixin 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Hydrocyclone has many traits such as smaller volume, higher efficiency, simpler structure, and so on. It is found that tiny change of geometric parameters can affect separation efficiency to a great extent, although the structure of hydrocyclone is relatively simple. Several hydrocyclone prototypes were tested to investigate the effects of geometric parameters, mainly including lengths of vortex cavity and conical section, and operating parameters, mainly including flowrate and split ratio, on the separation performance of liquid-liquid hydrocyclones. Many tests were carried out in Daqing Oilfields, China. Test results for normal oil-water mixed fluid and those for polyacrylamide-containing oil-water mixed fluid were obtained. The results show that different geometric hydrocyclones should be designed for different application conditions. For a certain application, every hydrocyclone has its optimum flowrate range, and the ideal split ratio exists for getting better separation results.
Extendable Arm Drill Bit: A Novel Idea
Authors: Gupta Yash , Banerjee Sudeepto N. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In conventional vertical drilling, the drill string is tripped in, allowed to drill to the predetermined depth and tripped out so that a bit of a smaller diameter can be attached to continue drilling the hole.
Extendable arm drill bit is essentially a rotary drill bit in which the roller cones can be extended so that the diameter of the bit corresponds to the required diameter of the hole to be drilled. This extension is done hydraulically by diverting some of the pressure of the circulating drilling mud to compress an assembly which would push down the roller cones, thus increasing the diameter. Now as drilling continues, the diameter of the bit can be adjusted by diverting a lesser amount of circulating pressure on the bit thereby "contracting" it to achieve a smaller diameter. It could be imagined like a tripod standing on its three legs.
The idea behind this proposal is to save the time, power and the cost of tripping operations of the drill string to change the bit to a smaller diameter one, by reducing the frequency of tripping the string, if not completely eliminating the process. This would result in an increase in the overall rig efficiency, both in terms of time and mainly money. Thus, the time and money saved can be diverted, if required, towards problems arising due to unexpected hole problems and pipe stuck-ups.
This paper gives the description of the most suitable design of such a drill bit and the possible modifications of this concept to be applicable in future developments.
Louisiana Orphaned Reserve Pit Cost Assessment
Authors: Lewis Adam , Webre Travis , Wojtanowicz Andrew 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In the oilfield, a reserve pit is any site (usually an earthen-pit) that is used for the collection of used drilling fluid. These sites must be closed (cleaned up and disposed off) in order to meet certain federal and local requirements. The costs associated with this are directly affected by environmental regulations, contamination levels, geographic/ecological location, and distance to an approved disposal site.
Since 1983, states have had the option to set unique standards for reserve pit closure. Louisiana enacted its standards in Act 404 of the 1993 Regular Legislative Session. The work presented in this paper can be used to estimate the cost to close a single, unique reserve pit in order to meet federal and Louisiana state regulations for reserve pit closures.
State approved contractors where contacted to obtain closure cost estimates for comparison with historical closure costs obtained from government records. Relationships for cost versus size and contamination levels were established. A computer program facilitates the cost estimation procedure. In the program, the state and federal regulations, and the cost estimates for various closure techniques have been compiled into a Visual Basic-driven Excel spreadsheet. All an individual user must do to generate a cost estimate for a particular reserve pit is to input data from samples taken from that pit. The study has shown that cost prediction is reasonably accurate for "normal" reserve pits that require little or no chemical remediation. However, when serious chemical remediation is needed for pits contaminated with salt or oil, the prediction loses precision due to the large number of variables and wide range of costs associated with those variables.
This work has become of paramount importance for the State of Louisiana because there are currently over 1,500 "orphaned" reserve pits in Louisiana, i.e. sites for which no liable party/company can be found. The State has had to assume financial responsibility for closing these orphaned reserve pits using the statewide tax on natural gas production. The State has expressed serious interest in understanding the scope and significance of the problem that they are currently dealing with.
Optimum Control of Unwanted Water Production in Stratified Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Yamali Nampetch , Nguyen Quoc P. , Srinivasan Sanjay 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Minimizing production of water from gas reservoirs is one of the main strategies for enhancing primary hydrocarbon production. Advances in intelligent well technology and simulation of reservoir-production system enable optimum inflow allocation of produced fluids by controlling perforations and valve settings. However, real-time optimum control of flow is still a challenge. To this end, we have developed an advanced method for optimization of production based on a feed-back optimum control concept. The method allows optimization of inflow-control–device operation in conjunction with strategic updating of reservoir-smart well model under uncertainty.
In this work, we present a hybrid optimization method for improving optimum solutions. In this method, the response of production system to control variables is mathematically described by a high-order proxy model, which is developed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Design of Experiments (DOE). The validity of this method was tested for the dynamic optimum control of gas and water coning observed in a physical two-dimensional layered bead-pack model with automatic inflow control valves. The valves were actuated by distributed flow or pressure sensors. Results showed that dynamic (time-dependent valve settings) and static (fixed valve setting) control exhibited advantages one over another, depending on operational conditions. It was also found that the heterogeneity of porous media strongly influenced the control effectiveness. Field implications are discussed.
Simulation Study of Drilling Horizontal Wells in One of Iranian Oil Fields
Authors: Azarkish Abbas , Kavkani Elham Khaghani 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate the advantages of drilling horizontal wells on oil recovery improvement. To evaluate the effect of horizontal length, porosity, anisotropy, staggered-line well pattern with gas injection (in the top layer) and water injection (in the bottom layer), different scenarios were studied.
This study is focused on simulation of formation-A of a carbonate reservoir which consists of three layers; where horizontal well is going to be drilled in layer-2 of this formation. The average thickness of formation-A is about 167.64 meters (550 feet) and we also have tilted water oil contact in this formation.
This field has produced around 146.9 MMBBL until year 2002 for the last 12 years with the Recoverable Reserve of about 237.31 MMBBL. Up to now 40 wells have been drilled in this field.
IRAP/RMS software was used to generate geological model. Based on selected reservoir black-oil model, IMEX from CMG is used for simulation task. Sector model used for simulation as we only had one productive horizontal well in the formation (scale-down method).
This study confirms simultaneous use of overbalance method and horizontal well in this reservoir in order to: A) Increase production rate up to 3 to 4.5 times by boosting productivity index (PI). B) Communicate a large area leading to a better drainage area. C) Postpone the water breakthrough by minimizing the draw down pressure.
Reduction of Oil Droplet Breakup in a Choke
Authors: Kwakernaak Peter Jan , van den Broek Wim M. G. T. , Currie Peter K. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper reports on experimental work focused on modifying choke design with the aim of reducing oil droplet break-up in the choke in high water-cut production wells. Producing oil under such conditions, with the oil dispersed in the produced water, leads to severe break-up of the dispersed oil droplets. This break-up is caused by high energy dissipation in the choke. Previous work carried out in Delft indicated that, under identical process circumstances (tubing diameter, flow-rate, pressure drop, oil type and concentration), the break-up process is significantly influenced by the choke geometry. In this work we discuss possible ways of modifying the choke geometry to reduce droplet break-up. Three model chokes were tested in the laboratory: an orifice, a small choke consisting of 7 parallel tubes and a larger choke consisting of 13 parallel tubes. These chokes were tested at identical flow rates and with the same pressure drop across the chokes. The larger model choke was the superior one in the sense that in this device the least break-up of oil droplets took place. In the small model choke more break-up occurred, while the most severe break-up was observed for the circular orifice. A general conclusion of the investigation is that the intensity of the break-up process occurring in the (model) choke can be considerably reduced by adaptation of the choke design. A choke design based on parallel tubes gives opportunities for improving the choke performance with regard to oil droplet break-up, while still making it possible to vary and control the volume flow-rate as with a conventional choke.
This investigation suggests that it will be possible to construct chokes with improved characteristics with regard to oil-droplet break-up in high water-cut wells. This will result in easier separation and less emulsion-forming downstream of the choke.
Security Is Everybody's Business: Transforming Security Into a Core Business Practice in the SHE Model
Authors: Simmons Stephen B. , Robb Albert J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
A security focus in recent years has driven the recognition of synergies between security management and existing safety, health and environment (SHE) management programs in many industries. While safety has a long history as a core business practice within the petrochemical industries, several key roadblocks exist with a similar integration of security. The most effective oil and gas company safety programs are those that are implemented and owned at the field level. However, security-related issues have historically been managed by corporate/functional security departments, rather than at an operational level. We believe that integration of security into existing corporate SHE management programs and practices is key to effective implementation. As such, successful integration of security as a core business practice requires both ownership and implementation at the operations level, as well as technical functional guidance and quality assurance from competent security professionals within the organization. Reporting of meaningful security-related performance indicators still remains primarily in the realm of leading indicators (activity-based), whereas, useful analysis of robust safety programs require evaluation of causal relationships between leading and lagging indicators. This in part is due to the lack of long-term data for comparison, but more importantly the causal effect of external influences related to lagging indicators (incidents), and will slowly change with time. Efforts to increase security awareness by employees need to mirror safety awareness programs. Successful implementation strategies include mixed media packages (video, print, logos, web) along with training and workshops designed to promote security as a core business practice. Effective integration of security into core business practices has resulted in success stories involving employees exhibiting security conscious behaviors, as well as statistics illustrating both increased reporting/incident prevention and security vulnerability gap closures.
Reclaiming Lost and Forgotten Oil and Gas Through the Use of Solid Expandable Tubulars
Authors: Villemez Don 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
With the price of oil and gas at all time high levels, methods of harvesting previously un-recoverable reserves are an extremely lucrative value proposition. These methods attract operators looking to increase production to take advantage of the current prices and to increase production for a higher revenue stream should prices fall in the future. The use of solid expandable tubulars can enhance production in mature and declining fields by: Isolating perforationsRe-completing the wellRestoring wellbore integrityProviding full pressure capabilityAllowing for selected re-stimulationPreventing casing collapseRe-drilling or deepening the wellAttaining water shut off
Compared to the alternate solutions of cement squeezes and casing patches, solid expandable tubulars provide a more concise and conductive method to field enhancement with a proven technology that Is more reliableIs more flexibleHas a higher pressure ratingHas increased longevity
This paper will use case histories to demonstrate the increase in production achieved by isolating zones for the purpose of fracturing or which are now producing water. Case histories will also be used to illustrate how solid expandable tubulars enabled operators to isolate and later re-perforate zones to allow for stimulation of previously unproduceable zones.
Critical Conditions for Effective Sand-Sized Solids Transport in Horizontal and High-Angle Wells
Authors: Duan Mingqin , Miska Stefan , Yu Mengjiao , Takach Nicholas , Ahmed Ramadan , Zettner Claudia 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Effective removal of small sand-sized solids is critical for successful drilling and completion operations in sand reservoirs. Recent experience in extended reach drilling also indicates that inefficient transport of smaller cuttings is a main factor for excessive drag and torque. This study was undertaken to determine two critical conditions for efficient transport of small solids. The two conditions are represented by the Critical Re-Suspension Velocity (CRV), the minimum fluid velocity necessary to initiate solids bed erosion, and the Critical Deposition Velocity (CDV), the minimum fluid velocity required to prevent bed formation.
Experiments were conducted in a field-scale flow loop (8×4.5 in., 100-ft long) to determine CRV and CDV, for 0.45 mm and 1.4 mm sands in different fluids over a range of bed heights and hole inclinations. The results show that, depending on sand size and fluid properties, CDV is approximately two to three times larger than CRV. Water is more effective than low concentration polymer solutions for bed erosion. However, polymer solutions are more helpful than water in preventing bed formation. This indicates the need for different drilling fluids for cleanout and drilling operations.
A mechanistic model was developed to predict CRV for a solids bed. Both experimental and theoretical results indicate the importance of inter-particle forces that are incorporated into the model. The model accounts for drill pipe eccentricity in any direction in an annulus, which is consistent with experimental observations. The model predictions are in good agreement with experimental results. Existing CDV correlations developed for larger cuttings were verified by experimental data for sands. The differences are around 25%. Results in this study will be useful not only in drilling and completion through sand reservoirs, but also in extended reach drilling and sand control.
Optimized Deep-Penetration Acid Fracturing Technology in Low-Permeability, Naturally Fractured, Complex Lithology Reservoirs
Authors: Xu Yun , Zou Honglan , Lei Qun , Liu Zhanjun , Ding Yunhong , Tian Zhuhong , Yang Yanli 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper describes characterization and its successful applications of a deep-penetration acid-fracturing approach to enhance oil recovery in low-permeability complex lithology reservoirs. A kind of special but important low-permeability reservoirs are distributing widely in west of China, in which neither carbonate nor detrial rock is main content.It is named complex lithology, which has 1/3 of quartz and feldspar, 1/3 of carbonate, and 1/3 of clay mineral. Early attempts in stimulations got miserable results.Propped fracturing failed with little bauxite placed before job termination due to premature screen-out. In addition, less HCl consumption and rock dissolving power prevents deep penetration of acid into formation. In matrix treatments this results in compact dissolution with only marginal skin decrease.
To optimize acid system for this complicated formation condition, acid rock reaction experiments of gelled acid and emulsified acid were accomplished to get full understanding the kinetics of acid reaction with complex lithology cores. Acid conductivity experiments were conducted with a unique conductivity instrument using samples designed to simulate deep-penetration acid fracturing process. The lab results indicate acid reaction mechanism is quite different both from carbonate and sandstone that is not controlled by surface reactivity or mass transport, but by both of these two reactions modes in balance. A good way to improve conductivity is alternating stages of acid fracs and closed acidizing with a multi-component acid, which is available to dissolve quartz, feldspar and clay.
More than 63 treatments with new technologies in Yumen, Qinghai oil field have been performed with encouraging results, 74.5% efficiency with accumulated incremental oil of 254,900 tons. For example, well L8 had original oil production of 546 BOPD, and got production as much as 2016 BOPD after treatment.