Production Logging in Horizontal Wells: Case Histories from Saudi Arabia Utilizing Different Deployment and Data Acquisition Methodologies in Open Hole and Cased Completions

Abstract

The horizontal wells drilled during the last few years are coming to a mature state in different fields and locations. This has created the requirement to evaluate the performance of the wells and determine water sources for proper reservoir management. In horizontal wells tool deployment, multiple sensor data acquisition and the interpretation of these results is a challenge, particularly when there are long intervals of open hole completions and where fractures are often encountered. The horizontal cased completions use multiple down-hole valves and external packers to provide isolation between intervals. This paper reviews the two primary deployment techniques of coiled tubing and tractor conveyance and highlights their advantages and limitations for each one. In the paper we propose a general guideline for their utilization. The case histories in the paper evaluate the different sensors utilized and provide recommendations particularly for low flow rate conditions. Two interpretation methodologies are evaluated and results are compared along with the interpretation from other sensors. The case studies examples in the paper demonstrate the value of integrating all available information and the value of different data acquisition and evaluation techniques. The conclusions highlight the operational considerations, the data interpretation and added value in the evaluation of well performance to maintain production and improve reservoir management.

Production Logging in Horizontal Wells: Different Deployment and Data Acquisition Methodologies in Open-Hole and Cased Completions

“…Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, and several applications have been extensively documented (Al-Buali et al 2010a and2010b;Shawly et al 2010;and Al-Belowi et al 2010).…”

“…A summary based on previous documented cases is presented as follows as a reference for special cases(Al-Buali et al 2010a;Al-Buali et al 2010b;Shawly et al 2010;and Al-Belowi et al 2010):…”