Optimizing Production in a Brown Field Through Innovative Inter Well Gaslift Initiation – Field XK Success Story

Abstract

The XK field is a mature offshore asset with post peak production characterized by rapid oil decline rate and steep water cut. Many wells have ceased flow prematurely over time and non-rig interventions to reactivate and restore the wells to production had typically been ineffective owing to consistent low tubing head pressures and well construction/completions. Furthermore, the plan to initiate gaslift operations in the field was challenged by the lack of gaslift separator, compressor unit and gas line coupled with the fact that many of the wells were completed without gaslift mandrels. The deployment of innovative inter well gaslift, utilizing Gas Liquid Cylindrical Cyclone (GLCC) separator saved the situation and enabled achievement of the gaslift objective. The result was the successful restoration of three (3) long shut-in wells and associated increased oil production in the field. This paper discusses the opportunities and challenges from inter well gaslift initiation and operations in XK field and the enormous potential as a low cost and efficient system for rejuvenating Brown Fields.