Increasing Value through Digital Transformation; A Case Study from the A Field Thermal EOR Asset, Sultanate of Oman

Abstract

Context and Objectives Petroleum Development Oman's "A" Field Thermal Asset, southern Sultanate of Oman, is characterized by a large scale Steam Drive/Cyclic Steam Soak (CSS) development project, underpinned by extensive data gathering. Cambrian faulted/fractured braided river sandstones are the predominant reservoir, with < 300m of heavy oil. Viscosity is high, reaching up to 400,000 cPAt around 1100m tvd, the reservoir is relatively deep for a thermal project.Well count is high, and steadily increasing. These factors create a challenging environment for maximising oil recovery. Key to success is efficient execution of data management and analysis, within a visualization intensive, collaborative work environment. In this paper we aim to demonstrate that working in this manner, within a cross-discipline asset environment enables the rapid identification and execution of cost-effective optimization opportunities and risk reduction. Approach In order to provide a sufficiently broad description of how the Asset is working towards the desired outcome, the paper addresses the following elements:- Data Capture, Transmission and Storage.Application of original algorithms and tools to convert the data into meaningful insights.Accessibility to insights (speed and mode of access).Meaningful impact to efficiency, production, and safety.Added value associated with the implementation. Results to Date Some of the areas further discussed include the following:- Implementation of Automatic Beam-Pump Optimisation has resulted in step-changes in terms of both oil production and reduced manpower requirements.Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) wells are providing real-time temperature profiles, essential for monitoring steam conformance.Automated well tests are fully operational in "A" East Field, and the results can be viewed and analysed via desktop applications in the Asset.6 Micro-Seismic wells have been successfully executed and now provide real time monitoring of reservoir integrity.A live subsurface model has been developed, which can be rapidly updated with new drilling results and subsurface insights. The above elements are continuously facilitating asset management, whilst also highlighting opportunities and reducing uncertainty as we follow the data journey from scoping and capture through to bottom line impact.