Nodal Analysis of Naturally Flowing Wells in Faihaa Oil Field, Yamama Formation

Abstract

This study focuses on the Yamama Formation, a significant carbonate reservoir in southern Iraq that is one of the most important productive reservoirs in the region. The Formation is characterized by porous limestone interspersed with thin layers of argillaceous and tight limestone. The Yamama reservoir in the Faihaa oil field is divided mainly into four units; YA, YB, YC, and YD. YA and YB units are considered to be the most important oil-bearing subunits due to their good petrophysical properties. The main objective of the study is to determine the optimum production rates of four naturally flowing wells in the Faihaa oil field using the Inflow Performance Relationship and Vertical Lifting Performance curves. The study investigates four critical parameters; tubing size, water cut, reservoir pressure, and wellhead pressure, and their impact on well performance. The study finds that wellhead pressure is the primary determinant of well performance, and deviations from the original tubing size have adverse effects on well performance. An increase in water cut beyond the recommended threshold, coupled with a reduction in reservoir pressure, results in decreasing well performance. The study underscores the importance of careful monitoring and analysis of these parameters to sustain and enhance well performance in the Faihaa oil field, providing valuable insights for well operators and petroleum engineers. The study's findings can be used to optimize well performance and increase oil production rates, with significant implications for the petroleum industry.