Unlocking Oil Resources without Artificial Lift Using Testing Barge in Tambora Gas Field

Tambora field is a mature gas field located in a swamp area of Mahakam delta without artificial lift. The main objective of this project is to unlock existing oil resources. Most oil wells could not flow because there is no artificial lift, moreover the network pressure is still at Medium Pressure (20 Barg). Given the significant stakes, the option to operate the testing barge continuously as lifting tool is reviewed. The idea is to set the separator pressure to 1-3 Barg, so that the wellhead flowing pressure could be reduced to more than 15 Barg which will create higher drawdown in front of the reservoir. The oil flows from the reservoir into the gauge tank, where it is then returned to the production line by transfer pumps. The trial was performed in well T-1 for a week in November 2017 and successfully produced continuous oil with a stable rate of 1000 bbls/d. What makes this project unique is the continuous operation for a long period of time. Therefore, it is important to ensure the capacity of the gauge tank and the transfer pump compatibility with the rate from the well, the system durability which required routine inspection and maintenance to ensure the testing barge unit is in prime condition and to maintain vigilance and responsiveness of personnel. This project started in 2018 for several wells and the cumulative production up to January 2020 has reached 158 k bbls and will be continued as there are still potential oil resources to be unlocked. Innovation does not need to be rocket science. Significant oil recovery can be achieved with a simple approach considering all safety operation, production and economic aspect.