Challenges and Lesson Learned from Multiphase Flow Metering Deployment During Different Production Phases in Tight Carbonate Reservoirs

Abstract

The application of Multiphase Flow Meters (MPFM) is being widely used in various fields with different flowing conditions. It is imperative to validate MPFMs for specific reservoir fluids and production profiles to ensure accurate measurements or production rates. This paper discusses a field-based data analysis from MPFMs performance in tight carbonate reservoirs during different phases of field development. The proposed methodology encompasses a comprehensive approach to validate MPFM's performance throughout the production life cycle of studied wells. The production profile of tight carbonate reservoirs changes significantly over time compared to traditional reservoirs due to their rapid decline. The selected MPFM should provide the required accuracy of measurement for gas and liquid rates, and water-cut throughout the entire production cycle. The MPFMs in this study were tested under different conditions to represent early and late stage of production under natural flowing conditions. The MPFMs flow measurement accuracy was benchmarked against a test separator by flowing the well at different choke sizes. The PVT model was built based on the equation of state to convert flow rates from operating to standard conditions. The comparison tests were conducted on six different wells representing different phases of the production life cycle. Two wells were measured during the early stage of production. This period begins with a 100% water-cut followed by gas breakthrough, and is characterized by a high water-cut and rapidly changing salinity. The end of the early stage period is marked by the maximum expected gas rate and stable condensate-gas ratio (CGR) of the studied well. Another three naturally producing wells were previously tested during extended well testing operations, representing the late stage of production. The fluid properties during this period are constant, and the flow was stable. It has a low water-cut, medium gas rate, and reduced CGR due to depletion effect. This Paper discusses a holistic approach to compare two metering technologies (MPFM and Testing Separator) for tight carbonate reservoirs including a comparative study and field-based verification tests. The advantages and disadvantages of both technologies will be highlighted in detail. addressing different flow conditions at multiple phases of the production life cycle.