New Advanced PVT Course Helps Masters Students to Find Solutions to Real Industry Challenges

Abstract

This paper describes an educational case study covering the development and presentation of a new petroleum engineering master's course in advanced phase behaviour. Emphasis was placed on current industry challenges, interpretation of real data and visits to industry facilities. Special attention was given to fluid sampling experience. A variety of challenges and possible solutions are covered, and benefits to both full and part-time students, the next generation of industry professionals, are described. The PE graduate program saw increasing numbers of students so more industry-related technical elective courses were required. Several courses were proposed and the Advanced PVT course was selected based on student preferences. The course was developed with a mix of lectures, computer laboratory classes, information group use, industry visits, presentations, and semi-obligatory attendance at local SPE meetings. Assignments included literature searches to find interesting publications about sampling, and personal project assignments. These were excellent for practising engineers who could analyse and report on field case studies. Due to students’ various backgrounds, course content was modified to review material that is more basic. Industry students benefited from the opportunity to concentrate on specific challenges, discuss issues outside their company and learn from other participants, but had to manage the pressure of work. Full time students had more time for studies and out-of-classroom teamwork, but had little experience to share. Choice of suitable course textbook is discussed, with details given of other supporting literature used, especially in the areas of fluid sampling and compositional analysis, where common phase behaviour texts are very limited. The course syllabus, detailed delivery techniques, example assignments and teaching tips are provided. This is believed to be a novel case study, with no similar subject being found in SPE OnePetro publications. With continuing shortages in university PE schools, this material can help young faculty and adjunct faculty develop new courses more efficiently. Teaching at Masters level was seen to increase faculty access to students starting thesis research projects. A selection of industry participants’ recent experience in fluid sampling in the UAE is given and it is intended to incorporate it in future best practice procedures.