Stochastic Modeling and Assisted History-Matching Using Multiple Techniques of Multi-Phase Flowback from Multi-Fractured Horizontal Tight Oil Wells

Abstract

Abstract In this Paper, the methods developed by Clarkson et al. (2014) are used to analyze flowback data, which involves modeling flow both before and after the breakthrough of formation fluids. Despite the versatility of these techniques, achieving an optimal combination of parameters is often difficult with a single deterministic analysis. Because of the uncertainty in key model parameters, this problem is an ideal candidate for uncertainty quantification and advanced assisted history-matching techniques, including Monte Carlo (MC) simulation and genetic algorithms (GAs) amongst others. MC simulation, for example, can be used for both the purpose of assisted history-matching and uncertainty quantification of key fracture parameters. In this work, several techniques are tested including both single-objective (SO) and multi-objective (MO) algorithms for history-matching and uncertainty quantification, using a light tight oil (LTO) field case. The results of this analysis suggest that many different algorithms can be used to achieve similar optimization results, making these viable methods for developing an optimal set of key uncertain fracture parameters. An indication of uncertainty can also be achieved, which assists in understanding the range of parameters which can be used to successfully match the flowback data.