Prediction of Sand Production in Gas Wells: Methods and Gulf of Mexico Case Studies

Abstract

Sand production from weak, but competent, rock as a result of high production rates is a growing concern. In unconsolidated sand, the decision to gravel pack is usually clear; however, the decision is harder in weak rock because the need for sand control often depends on the desired drawdown or production rate. Also, wells that do not initially require sand control may later become sand producers. The ability to predict at what point sand problems will occur is useful. This paper presents a method for predicting sand production in gas wells and the results of applying that method to 13 fields in the US gulf coast area. The method has since been applied extensively worldwide by Arco.