Analysis of APB in vertical wells with evaporite layers: A 1D axisymmetric multilayer thermomechanical model

Abstract

Temperature increases and creep in saline rocks can cause annular pressure buildup (APB), presenting a significant challenge in oil well operations, particularly in deep and ultra-deep pre-salt fields. This paper proposes a one-dimensional axisymmetric multilayer thermomechanical model that accounts for the influence of evaporite layers and thermomechanical effects on APB. We developed a finite element model that integrates heat transfer and thermomechanical interactions, utilizing a double deformation mechanism as a constitutive model to represent the viscous behavior of the rock formation. Additionally, this model enables the iterative calculation of fluid properties based on temperature and pressure conditions. To validate the model, we conducted case studies using widely adopted commercial finite element software. Its consistent results provide a deeper understanding of the pressure increases caused by the influence of saline rock and thermal effects, offering valuable insights into the safe and efficient operation of oil wells using a model with reduced computational complexity.