A Game Changer Data Acquisition Technology : Field Wide Gaslift Optimization through the Application of Welltracer Technology in a Mature Offshore Field

Abstract

90% of Field T production relies on Gas lift as means of artificial lift. Typical surveillance strategy in assessing the health of the gas lifted wells is to deploy flowing gradient survey (FGS) in tandem with surface welltest. However, in the case of Field T, this technology meets its limitation in investigating prolific wells due to its current well mechanical condition and dual string completion environment. Welltracer technology application in the field has broken the barrier in evaluation of these wells in Field T. The Welltracer application is a non-invasive data acquisition method which measures the travel time and concentration of the CO2 return which is introduced upstream of the gas lift header. The interpreted results allow for the identification of injection points and rate. This simple idea opens up opportunity for gas lift performance evaluation of wells in Field T that was not possible through the conventional approach of FGS. This breakthrough is vital for Field T as some of the wells are facing either one or more of the following problems i.e. dual string wells with gas robbing issues, tubing leak, restricted tubing due to pack-off and multi-point injection. Twenty-three surveys and analysis were completed during the first application in Field T. The opportunity identified from the survey were categorized depending on the resources and timeframe required to execute the changes. Four enhancement opportunities were identified which only required surface valve manipulation were executed immediately and showed instant results. Other than additional barrels, the results of the campaign have a tremendous value of information that changed the earlier comprehension of the existing problems in some of the wells. This paper discusses the results of the application of the technology in Field T. This paper will also elaborate on the lessons learned and improvement recommendations in terms of project identification, execution and planning. Another important highlight that will be discussed is the limitation and assumptions made to further enhance the understanding of the Welltracer technology.