Fully integrated dynamic reservoir and well simulation model: Blacktip gas field case study

Abstract

This paper describes an experience of integrating a dynamic reservoir simulation model with a dynamic well simulation model, resulting in an integrated dynamic model from the reservoir to the surface that enhances reservoir and well surveillance capability for the Blacktip gas field. Multiphase transient flow simulation is used to support daily well and pipeline operations for the project. The limitation of the standalone well model using a multiphase transient simulation software was its inability to reproduce pressure build up response during shut-ins, and pressure drawdown during start-ups. The fluid inflow from the reservoir to the well bore is modelled using the Inflow Performance Relationship (IPR) and accordingly the transient pressure behaviour near the well bore is not captured. This makes it difficult to estimate an accurate static reservoir pressure during shut-ins, as the predicted pressure instantaneously builds up to reservoir pressure specified in the IPR. The integrated dynamic model overcomes this limitation. The history matching of production intervals including shut-ins and start-ups using the integrated dynamic model along with high frequency data demonstrates that this integrated modelling approach can be used as a reliable surveillance tool to understand dynamic flow conditions from the reservoir to the surface, including liquid loading and unloading scenarios. The evolution of the history match and subsequent outcomes are discussed in the paper, along with the lessons learnt. Results of a liquid loading and unloading scenario for a gas well are also discussed in the paper.