The variety of available EOR techniques requires an in-depth screening to select a viable method that matches well to the reservoir rock and fluid parameters and still remains economically attractive. In the present paper a Comprehensive Integrated EOR Workflow is proposed that starts with an Advanced EOR Screening Method. This is comprised of both a Neural Network Part and an Operational Module. While the First part uses proven data mining techniques the Operational Module considers the specific features of the screened EOR Method influencing the field implementation. The Neural Network Part is based on an exhaustive review and selection of successfully deployed literature case. It uses the rock, fluid and other reservoir parameters to screen various EOR methods considering their technical-economical applicability. This Artificial Intelligence approach utilizes data mining techniques in the form of a hybrid system that makes use of a neural network as a screening tool and the genetic algorithm as an optimization tool to land into the optimum recommendation. The Operational Part enables to evaluate the implementation capability on the given field based on the specific requirements of the preselected EOR Method. The system works its way through the literature data of successful EOR projects trying to detect patterns and learning from the data the relationship between these characteristics and the feasibility of applying each EOR technique mimicking the ability of the human mind to learn from previous experience. The system is a multi-layers neural network whereby the input layer is composed of seven key reservoir parameters (depth, temperature, porosity, permeability, initial oil saturation, oil gravity and in-situ oil viscosity) while the output layer is composed of the probability of success of the evaluated EOR methods (steam, CO2 miscible, hydro-carbon miscible, in-situ combustion, polymer flooding). The number of hidden layers and neurons are optimized using genetic algorithm for best matching of the training data set and accurate prediction of the testing set. Comparing the system output with the actual applied EOR techniques in the field shows a reliable result with only a 5% miss-prediction of the total test fields. The Operational Module determines the deployment capabilities in the given reservoir considering the specific parameters of the pre-selected EOR Method, production-pressure history, Formation fluid flow properties and the actual field and well set up, thus providing an advanced EOR Screening.

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Paraffin can be deposited in any part of the flow conduit. It can affect the flow in the borehole near formation, the downhole pump, the tubing, surface flow lines, separators, storage tanks and pipe lines. The use of Xylene or chemical products of aromatic nature can affect other components of the well completion using elastomers such as packers and artificial lift components, potentially compromising well integrity. This justifies a growing demand for environmental friendly Technologies for the removal of paraffin in oil field operation by means of non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, non-flammable, biodegradable products. As opposed to acidic products the action of the environmental friendly products requires the help of mechanical forces. This paper describes appropriate test procedures and laboratory set up to test the efficiency of the products prior to their field use. This requires that the test conditions reproduces the well and facility system. The presented set up further enables the concentration optimization of the recipe. Paraffin and mother oil samples have been tested in the lab in order to determine its potential for use in the field. Environmental friendly paraffin removal products were selected that are non-toxic, non-flammable and non-carcinogenic. The elaborated set up and test procedure enables identification of the most effective product and to optimize its concentration. In the first phase of this evaluation Dispersants based on biodegradable Surfactants are tested. Further investigation on second phase will focus on Wax Cristal Modifiers such as Polymers. For both phases the multipurpose properties of the chemicals will be evaluated. The presented phase wise investigative approach supports a workflow that effectively encourages the participation of everybody in the organization in the introduction of new innovative ideas and Technologies thus contributing a continuous improvement mode and a shift to an innovations friendly organization.

Cycles of Low Oil Prices have occurred so far three times in the last two decades, and it has become evident that it is a feature of the Industry. In the low oil price scenario a condition arises whereby the break even value of the field is higher than the sales price. The traditional response recipes have been so far a resize of the activity involving layoffs and cancelling or putting projects indefinitely on hold. A closer look tough shows that while the average production cost of the barrel may be non economical, still certain oil generating activities can yield profitable oil. On the other side stream lining the process for both surface and down hole activities incorporating cost effective innovative solutions and best practices can reduce the production cost. Further looking into the capital expenses with critical eyes, performance oriented contracts, merging from purchasing to leasing, among others can result in additional savings. Likewise goal alignment to explore for creative models jointly with the Product and Service Providers provides another stream of cost optimization. This paper presents a viable alternative that allows E & Ps to refocus on cost effective measures to keep profitability or at least to minimize loses. Specific real case examples are shared. For heavy and Extra heavy Oil Fields the impact of above is emphasized due to the lowered marked price that the higher oil viscosity triggers.

The Concept of the Sustainable Oil and Gas Field involves a Preventive Approach and the use of New Technologies, Innovations and Best Practices to avoid or reduce the risks of occurrence of environmental incidents and accidents achieved in a cost effective manner. This novel approach focuses on the root causes of the current gaps proposing a practical solution demonstrated on real example cases. Further it contributes to bridge the gap between non Oil and Gas Professionals evaluating the potential impact on the Environment of the core business processes related to the Exploration, Development and Field Abandonment of Oil and Gas fields. In the present Paper a method is described that supports a sustainable development and operation of Oil and Gas Fields. Further the most common reasons for the current dysfunctional procedures are analyzed as well as practical examples of the proposed approach are shown on executed projects in four continents. The proposed method builds on a preventive approach that starts with the focus of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the activities foreseen for the early project phase, as it is at this stage where the entire project can more effectively be influenced. Further the Use of fit for purpose Innovations, Technologies and Best Practices that strive to remove the risk before it happens, supports a preventive approach. The involved technologies deliver the same outcome than traditional means in a more efficient way. The mindset that the use of those Technologies comes at a higher price is challenged by the latest developments showing that those enable both an environmental friendly workflow and economical advantages to the E & P Companies. Further the above Technologies can be applied at any stage of the field life, be it at the early field development, the operational plateau or later on at the decline and abandonment phase. Several specific examples from executed Oil and Gas Projects following key elements of the presented Concept of the Sustainable Oil and Gas Field carried out in four continents are provided, showing that operating Oil and Gas fields with Zero Gas Flare, Zero Oil Spill, small footprint, no process effluents to the environment and energy efficiency can be reflected in low oil/gas unit production costs, technical and operational excellence as well as full environmental compliance. In the present paper a preventive approach to avoid and reduce environmental incidents and accidents by means of an Environmental Impact Assessment that focuses on the early project phases and the aid of fit for purpose Technical Innovations, Technologies and Best Practices is presented. This supports the goal of achieving a more Sustainable Oil and Gas Field to safely achieve production peak and increase recoverable Reserves.