Reservoir Simulation

Abstract

Petroleum engineers can mathematically model the behaviour of a petroleum reservoir, allowing them to determine the optimum way to exploit a reservoir. A numerical reservoir model consists of a series of different equations with each representing a different aspect of the physical nature of the reservoir and its fluids. We begin the chapter by considering the key equations and conditions that must be incorporated into any model to simulate the processes within a reservoir. A fully functional reservoir simulation model is very complex to set up and to solve. The equations that describe the characteristics and properties of the reservoir and its fluids, as well as how the fluids flow through the formation, must be accurately defined, and, often, re-written in ways that are amenable in numerical solution. In this chapter we examine some of the key aspects of numerical modelling by setting up a much simpler numerical model that will predict the flow of heat through a sandstone formation. We see how a simple equation can be used to predict temperature profiles within the sandstone at any time. This chapter also discusses some of the features of commercially available reservoir-simulation packages.