Unifying of Steady State and Transient Simulations Methodologies for Increasing Oil Production of Integrated Network of Wells, Pipeline and Topside Processing Equipment

Abstract

Aging facilities and increasing complexity in operations (e.g., increasing water cut, slugging, sand or wax production) continue to widen the gap between actual production and the full potential of the field. To enable production optimization scenarios within an integrated system comprises of reservoirs, wells and surface facilities, the application of an integrated network modelling has been applied. The highlight of this paper is the synergy of Integrated Production Network Modelling (IPNM) utilizing Steady State Simulator (PROSPER-GAP) and the Transient Simulator (OLGA) tools to identify potential quick gains through gaslift optimization as well as mid and long-term system optimization alternatives. The synergy enables significant reduction in transient simulation time and reduced challenges in OLGA well matching, especially in selecting accurate modelling parameters e.g., well inflow performance (validated well (string) production data, reservoir pressure, temperature and fluid properties and the Absolute Open Flow (AOF) of each well). The paper showcased the successful production gain achieved as well as the workflows and methodologies applied for both Steady State Integrated Production Modelling (IPM Steady State) and Integrated Transient Network Modelling (IPM Transient) as tools for production enhancement. Even though IPM Steady State shows promising results in term of field optimization potential, to increase accuracy and reduce uncertainties, IPM Transient is recommended to be performed to mimic the actual transient phenomena happening in the well to facilities