Gradient-Based Production Optimization in Reservoir Development

Abstract

One of the core contents of intelligent oilfield is to develop proved oil resources economically and effectively. The way to realize it is to make reservoir development in the optimal state in real time based on the existing production conditions. Water flooding is a commonly used technique after primary oil recovery. However, due to the influence of formation heterogeneity, the injected water breaks through the high permeability layer and traps the crude oil untouched. In order to solve such problems, a new optimal control model is proposed here, which aims to maximize the net present value of reservoir development and production. By solving the mathematical model of development and production, the input and output control parameters of reservoir are optimized in real time to obtain the optimal production scheme. This model is based on the reservoir numerical simulation and optimization theory. By solving the gradient of the control variables, multiple objective strategy schemes (such as the optimal one aiming at oil production, water production and economic benefits) can be optimized according to different needs to assist the oilfield production decision. On the basis of theoretical research, this model is used to optimize the calculation and analysis of reservoir examples, and the results show that the optimal production scheme is in line with the actual oilfield, which provides theoretical and technical support for the intelligent control of oilfield development.