Gas Production Optimization Using AICV Technology

The main objective of this paper to present a pragmatic approach of managing excessive surface gas production in a heterogeneous reservoir setting through implementation of autonomous inflow control valves (AICV) technology. The gas production from the field is influenced by the presence of gas cap adding extra level of reservoir heterogeneity, which need to be properly characterized and managed. The field can be characterized through integration of multiple static and dynamic data including; fluid data, dynamic pressure profile and pressure transient analysis. The area of interest with high gas production was further investigated for viable options to manage gas production and improve oil sweep conformance. AICV technology was successfully introduced in one of the horizontal wells with high GOR to shut-off unwanted gas production zones across the lateral. Results have shown that the autonomous inflow control valve (AICV) was capable of sealing off sections with high gas production at completion joint while the oil production will continue producing from other zone along the lateral ensuring optimum oil production and recovery by being oil viscosity dependent. High GOR was ultimately controlled by yielding a significant reduction in surface gas production. Additionally, this reduction was accompanied by improved oil sweep efficiency. This paper represents a viable solution to manage gas production and improve oil sweep efficiency in a heterogeneous reservoir setting associated with a free gas production. The AICV combines the best from passive inflow control device (ICD), Autonomous ICD and smart wells (ICV). This fit for purpose technology allows for autonomous oil re-production after gas breakthrough with minimal surface intervention. The AICV design is adapted to the reservoir conditions and requirements in the relevant field.