Innovative Completion Design and Systematic Approach Improves Operating Efficiency and Enhances Well Productivity

Abstract

Abstract Hydraulic Fracturing has always been referred to as a multidisciplinary technique for delivering improved well productivity. In the BP exploration business operation, a successful hydraulic fracturing operation is a key requirement for cost-efficient well project delivery. With formation rocks requiring in excess of 18000 psi bottom-hole treating pressures, reservoirs with contrasting formation pressure regimes, complex stress profiles and the need for multi-zone commingled completions as business drivers, significant challenges arise in terms of down hole equipment limitations, increased complexity in completion installations, high project costs and diminished assurance of fracture pumping completion success. An innovative well completion design and a thorough multidisciplinary planning strategy dramatically improved operating efficiency and successfully enhanced well productivity for the Guadalupe sands in BP Colombia operations. The system was implemented in the Floreña C6 well in the Piedemonte Field in Colombia. The completion installation technique also represented the "first of a kind" globally and sets the pace for the future completion work to be undertaken in the Piedemonte Field. This paper comprehensively describes the total system approach implemented in various disciplines and the strategic planning applied to overcome critical obstacles in the well delivery process; optimizing project costs and creating increased assurance for the hydraulic fracturing operations resulting in a remarkable well performance.