Experiences and Benefits Gained through Implementation of the First Intelligent Field in Saudi Aramco (QATIF Field)

Abstract

Abstract Qatif field is the first intelligent field in Saudi Aramco equipped with measurement, communication, control and software allowing real-time automated field management. The Qatif field is equipped with automated remote controls and surveillance systems due to its complex reservoir fluid characteristics, including high H2S concentrations up to 16% mole fraction. Initially twenty multiphase flow meters were installed at Qatif field 22 drill sites, testing 96 wells. One of the MPFM units tests sixteen wells from three different producing reservoirs. (PVT) reports based on black oil models were initially used, but did not match the fluid characteristics due to the H2S presence in the produced gas, in addition to the sulfur substance in the produced fluids. The initial tests using the black oil model were showing water cut as high as 60% on wells known to have no water. Using the limited number of available PVT reports, we have generated simulated generic PVT reports for each reservoir. To facilitate real-time well bottom pressure data and reduce the wireline interventions to collect these data, tandem gauge permanent downhole monitoring systems (PDHMS) were initially installed in 29 wells. Data was collected and used to support well flow optimization efforts to determine the maximum well deliverability, based on current BHP conditions. Further, these data supported ongoing simulation efforts within the three reservoirs through the generation of real-time isobaric maps to optimize production/injection strategies. Problems with these PDHMS included six of 29 that failed prematurely due to downhole cable failure. These gauges eliminated 62 wireline interventions a year with savings of $350M. Safety in Qatif field is a major ongoing concern since the field has high H2S concentrations. Well sites and associated flowlines are equipped with the following: state of the art emergency shutdown systems (ESD), wellhead and valves use programmable logic controls (PLC), H2S sensors and remote controls 3. This equipment contributed to the field's zero safety incident record for the past 4 operating years. The use of the I-Field concept has reduced field operational expenses as well as improving the overall well surveillance activities. During 2007, the operating cost in the field was reduced by over $ 1million and any lost production avoided by employing I-Field intelligent fields for the well surveillance activities. The reservoir models are being updated real time to enhance well placement as well as to optimize existing well operational strategies. Remote well controls have reduced manpower and conventional equipment requirements to operate the field while maximizing well surveillance activities.