Abstract

Organic geochemical and petrographic analyses were carried out on Paleozoic core samples to evaluate the source rocks in Kuwait. This is a pioneer study because most of the petroleum exploration targets the Mesozoic petroleum system. The samples were collected from four wells that penetrated the Permian Khuff Formation and the Carboniferous-lower Permian Unayzah Formation. Standard organic geochemical, vitrinite (Ro), and bitumen reflectance analyses were done on selected samples. Gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry as well as characterization of saturates, aromatics, and heteroatomic compounds (resin and asphaltene) were performed on two rock extracts. This was followed by carbon isotope analysis on the same extracts. The total organic carbon in the Khuff Formation ranges from 0.6 to 2.8 wt. % and from 0.8 to 3.7 wt. % in the Unayzah Formation. The highest total organic carbon values are in the northern fields. The petrography of the kerogen for both formations

Abstract

Offshore Oil export, being a batch process, is required to be at the highest loading rate possible to lift off the continuously produced oil and also to shorten the loading period of ships, so as to improve the time to market. But at the same time, it needs to be managed in the safest manner, as any operational error or a bad weather could cause a big oil spillage and pollute the marine environment significantly. This calls for a bigger offshore infrastructure, with large size and lengthy submarine pipelines all the way to the deep draft area of the sea to enable bigger ship to berth and a higher pumping rate with fail safe control system. KOC started offshore crude oil export in year 1969, with the commissioning of Sea Island terminal located 10 miles offshore. It had a 48 dia. Crude oil Submarine line and a 20 bunker submarine line. The control system for emergency shutdown was provided with a surge relief system and a relief collection vessel at the sea Island platform. After 10 yea

Abstract

There are two ongoing steamflood pilots with inverted five-spot, 5-acre and 10-acre spacing patterns in North Kuwait heavy oil field. KOC determined that performing two or three Cycle Steam Stimulation (CSS) cycles followed by steamflood is required to achieve the production target from a multi-layer reservoir with two vertically separated heavy oil zones. A previous reservoir simulation study identified two possible completion strategies. One completion strategy for simultaneous steaming in the 5-acre spacing pattern and the other completion strategy for steaming one zone at a time in the 10-acre well spacing pattern. In this paper, we discuss for the two pilots, operational and monitoring challenges and the substantial difference in the performance after first CSS cycle for the two well completion strategies. The Steamflood pilots are currently at the pre-flood stage and the first cycle of the Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS) has been finalized. A comprehensive reservoir and well surve

Abstract

[No abstract available]

Abstract

The Najmah-Sargelu reservoirs are fractured carbonates and have been penetrated by several vertical wells. Productivity from these wells depends on chance intersection with vertical fracture clusters and as a result has varied from zero to quite productive wells. The chances of intersecting major fracture clusters will be improved if high angle wells are used. This paper investigates and compares the expected performance of vertical and high angle wells based on assumptions about the density of major vertical fracture clusters also, the azimuth, length, width, and rock matrix properties. The analysis tool developed incorporates uncertainty in these parameters using the algorithm below and Monte Carlo Simulation. Define vertical or HAW well locations. Then, for each Monte Carlo trial: 1. Select fracture density. 2. Select fraction of fractures in primary and secondary azimuth. 3. Randomly map fractures in reservoir area, sampling length and width distribution for each fracture cluster l

Abstract

A steam flood pilot in unconsolidated sandstone reservoir is being performed for the first time in Kuwait with inverted 5 spot configuration and pattern areas of 5 and 10 acres and a total of 26 wells. Prior to the steam flood, two cyclic steam stimulation (CSS) cycles were applied in all wells. This paper provides a detailed description of the well completions and challenges during CSS and the ongoing steam flood operations. Different designs of well completions were evaluated for injection and production wells. Injection well completion designs were evaluated by comparing actual vs. expected injection rates and review of operational issues. Production well completion designs were evaluated by comparing peak production rates, decline rates and sand issues. Two different injection well completion designs were evaluated. In the 5 acre, the steam injectors target two sand sub layers and hence initially completion were designed with downhole steam splitters but later removed due to inject

Abstract

Wehrlite xenoliths recovered from lamprophyre dykes from Sarnu–Dandali alkaline igneous complex record three distinct events of modification in the mantle below northwest India. The first event marks mantle metasomatism by carbonate-rich fluids from the upwelling mantle, which formed secondary olivine and clinopyroxene at the expense of orthopyroxene, in mantle peridotite with little or no orthopyroxene. The phlogopite veining characterizes the second event in the mantle during rifting. These veins are formed by the crystallization of upwelling silica undersaturated alkaline fluids along the fractures and grain boundaries in the carbonated metasomatized mantle. Petrographic observations reveal separate phlogopite veins and carbonate infiltrations where carbonate activity preceded the phlogopite veining. The final event is an eruption of lamprophyres and mela-nephelinites in the study area at the later phase of the Deccan eruption, transporting wehrlite xenoliths to the surface. Estimat

Abstract

This paper discusses the evolution of an Alkaline Surfactant Polymer (ASP) formulation for a challenging sandstone reservoir in North Kuwait. This is an on-shore reservoir, with no gas cap, featuring a moderately high residual oil saturation to waterflood of approximately 20-30%. Moreover, the reservoir has a light oil (API Gravity 30-35) with low Total Acid Number (TAN) and is undergoing a maturing waterflood - thus making it amenable to ASP implementation. However, the high reservoir temperature (90°C), in-situ brine salinity (>250,000 ppm) and divalent ion concentration (>20,000 ppm) place the reservoir at the upper threshold of ASP technology implementation. In addition, the oil has a high emulsification tendency and was observed to form very stable brine-oil emulsions when sampled from the field. This was due to the high concentration of heavier components such as waxes, resins and asphaltenes, some of which are surface-active and tend to interfere with the action of synthetic sur

Abstract

Sabiriyah Mauddud (SAMA) is not only a giant reservoir in North Kuwait with largest footprint it is also the most complex being carbonate. Presently, this reservoir is under waterflood which has helped to improve reservoir pressure and production performance. Production strategy of 1 million BOPD from NK reservoirs has brought focus on accelerated oil production by drilling new wells, good reservoir management practices and targeting difficult reserves. Possibility of early implementation of EOR has been considered as an option for SAMA. EOR screening studies were followed by extensive laboratory coreflood studies and sector model simulation study. In Lab, carefully designed recipe of chemicals (Alkali-Surfactant-Polymer) successfully addressed the critical issues of conformance control and adverse mobility ratio observed in SAMA to provide high displacement efficiency. Sector model was carried out to evaluate the different EOR processes like, gas, polymer and Surfactant-Polymer (SP).

Abstract

The data, information, knowledge, and wisdom (DIKW) hierarchy manifests a structural and functional description of the processes that transform data into information, information into knowledge, and knowledge into wisdom. This paper introduces a new modeling methodology that treats data and information as the fundamental notions in theories of processing and transformation, thus avoiding the controversy surrounding the DIKW hierarchy. The resultant description aims at building a conceptual architecture of the evolution of data into higher levels in the ladder of processes in an organization. A sample project is used to illustrate the new approach.

Abstract

The use of the Time Lapse, or 4D, seismic technology is well established in the marine offshore seismic environment, this technology is not so well established yet in the land seismic environment The effectiveness of 4D seismic surveys for monitoring production-induced effects in the reservoir is determined by the magnitude of the change in seismic response and by the repeatability of the seismic experiments over the time periods. KOC has recognized the significance and potential of 4D seismic as a powerful and cost effective tool for reservoir management. KOC also comprehends the need to test and evaluate all available, and the emerging, technologies to make 4D successful. In this paper we review several 4D examples, with emphasize on a repeatability study onshore conducted in North Kuwait and a 4D reservoir study performed in Minagish field; West Kuwait. © Copyright 2011, International Petroleum Technology Conference

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the exergetic destructions of Azzour steam generation system. The exergy destructions (irreversibilities) of the steam generation system were analysed based on actual plant operating data. Three irreversible processes were investigated; combustion, heat transfer and streams mixing processes. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to study the effects of inlet air temperature, excess theoretical air, air humidity and generated steam temperature on steam generation system performance. Results showed that at stoichiometric condition, the exergy was destroyed mainly by two irreversibilities, associated with heat transfer and combustion processes, and to a much lesser extent by streams mixing process. Copyright © 2007 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

Abstract

KOC currently produces an oil field in Area A. Its production is despatched to a Tank Farm about 70 miles away through 2 nos. 30 inch transit lines. These lines are capable of handling 300 MBOPD each within the current maximum allowable working pressure of 415 psig. It is planned to increase the daily production in Area A and sustain it for a decade or so. Since this rate is above the current combined capacity of the two transit lines, it dictated the requirement of a third transit line. In an attempt to explore alternative means to despatch the additional production, it was decided to examine the feasibility of enhancing the capacity of the existing lines within their pressure limitations by using Drag Reducing Agents. If found feasible this would mean substantial reduction in capital investment either by eliminating the need for a third line or reducing its diameter. Accordingly a test was carried out in Transit Line 1 under KOC supervision by a vendor company. The test showed that d

Abstract

As reservoirs approach maturity, the understanding and implementation of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques become essential to meet the growing world oil demand. EOR processes involve the displacement of one fluid by another. The major EOR methods in the petroleum industry include thermal, miscible and chemical processes. Miscible displacement methods involve the injection of solvents that will inter-mix with the reservoir oil to increase its mobility and reduce the oil saturation to low values in the swept zone of an oil reservoir. This work is part of Kuwait strong focus on EOR applications in Kuwaiti reservoirs to maximize the hydrocarbon recovery factors for a sustainable growth in oil production. This study is an experimental study that evaluates and investigates the miscible flood performance in Kuwait. An oil formation was selected as a candidate reservoir for this study after conducting EOR screening criteria. Core and fluid samples were collected and their properties were

Abstract

Oil produced in most oil fields is accompanied by water in the form of an emulsion that must be treated. In addition, this water normally contains dissolved salts, principally chlorides of sodium, calcium, and magnesium. If crude oil is left untreated, when it is processed in a refinery the salt can cause various operating problems. This paper investigates experimentally the effect of five factors (gravity settling, chemical treatment, freshwater injection, heating, and mixing) on the efficiency of the dehydration/desalting process for a Kuwaiti crude oil and a commercial demulsifier (Servo CC 3408). These factors are systematically varied and efficiency is analyzed. Two efficiencies are defined: a Salt Removal (S/R) efficiency and a Water Cut (W/C) dehydration efficiency. The investigation was carried out through changes made to a single factor at a time as well as multiple variations of factors. Plots, based on experimental data, showing the variation of the two efficiencies as a fun

Abstract

One of the common methods of reducing or eliminating the emulsion is the use of different chemical demulsifiers depending on the type of crude oil and water cut. This method is widely used in Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) at wellheads and gathering centers (GC). However, some wells have practice increases of demulsifier dosage as a result of increase in water content. Consequentiality, KOC initiated a program for optimization of chemical consumption for water/oil emulsion separation in the surface facilities at West Kuwait. As a result, of one year oil field statistical analysis of crude oil emulsion collected data. The results indicate that there are four oil wells of a different physical property could be very helpful for our study. Such properties include emulsion viscosity, size of water droplets, surface active materials, resin to asphaltene ratio (R/As), emulsion temperature. Over and above the demulsifier efficiency and dosages were evaluating using the calculated emulsion separation

Abstract

The exclusion-diffusion potential (EDP) arises in response to concentration gradients and is one of the key components of the self-potential (SP) observed in subsurface environments. However, few data are available to characterize the EDP in reservoir rocks saturated with complex natural brines and at partial brine saturation. We report experimental measurements of the EDP across fully and partially brine-saturated sandstone samples and fully brine saturated shaly sand samples, using natural saline brine (2.2 Mol/L), seawater (0.5 Mol/L), and natural crude oil. When fully saturated, the EDP across the samples is diffusion-dominated, with the shaly samples exhibiting a small contribution from charge exclusion. The contribution of charge exclusion to the measured EDP increases as permeability decreases. At the residual oil saturation, the measured EDP is diffusion-dominated, consistent with our findings at full saturation. However, the EDP is more exclusive at the irreducible water satur

Abstract

Low salinity (LS) water flooding in the sandstone reservoir is of pronounced interest of the prospective for improved oil recovery. In this study, laboratory experiments in low-permeable sandstone core plugs saturated with various crude oil containing different acid numbers were presented. Several low-permeable sandstone cores (1-3 mD) were taken from Bartlesville Sandstone Reservoir from Eastern Kansas were successively flooded with seawater and different LS water. The reservoir cores were cleaned and saturated with formation water (FW) and then aged in three kinds of crude oil (different acid numbers) for six weeks at 90°C. To evaluate LS water in the low-permeable reservoir core plugs, core flooding tests were performed. Contact angle and spontaneous imbibition tests were also carried out. The results obtained from LS water flooding showed that an improvement in oil recovery up to 12% of the original oil in place when the acid number (AN) and core permeability were low. The wate

Abstract

The radial distribution network structure is exploited in developing a fast and flexible radial power flow (FFRPF) solution technique. The cornerstone of this technique is constructing one single building block matrix, called the radial configuration matrix (RCM), which is utilized in carrying out the radial power flow backward/forward iterative steps. The RCM is designed to have a small condition number with a determinant and all of its eigenvalues be equal to one to ensure its invertibility. By incorporating this matrix and its direct descendant matrices in solving the power flow problem, the CPU execution time is decreased compared with other methods. The FFRPF method is flexible in accommodating any changes that may take place in an existing radial distribution system since these changes can be exclusively incorporated within this matrix. The FFRPF is tested by using several balanced and unbalanced three-phase radial distribution systems. © 2009 IEEE.

Abstract

Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) - the State oil enterprise of Kuwait - holds exclusive rights to Exploration and Production in the State of Kuwait. As part of the strategy to add new reserves to its portfolio, KOC has embarked upon an aggressive exploration campaign of the hitherto less explored stratigraphic levels. The Lower Cretaceous stratigraphic section, a set of fracture associated unconventional reservoirs, is one such play currently under active exploration. The strategy adopted for this play is to high-grade areas that have potential for encountering more than one reservoir, to reduce risk and to make the play commercially attractive. Current understanding of this play is limited despite having a number of well penetrations. Most of the well penetrations were targeted for deeper reservoirs and the consequent large hole size constrained quality of well data in the section of interest. In the absence of hard data for calibration, seismic data analysis and unconstrained geo-mechanical

Abstract

The State of Kuwait has vast reserves of hydrocarbons. The effort to target relatively less explored tight reservoirs has accelerated. The Najmah-Sargelu reservoirs of Jurassic age store substantial hydrocarbons and fall in this category. A sustained production owning to low permeability is a challenge in exploiting these reservoirs. The natural fractures and fracture corridors are the drivers to sustain hydrocarbon flow. A proper understanding of fractures, present day in situ stress and their orientation is the key to plan exploratory and development wells. The stress and fractures may be readily interpreted at the well locations from existing borehole image logs and core analysis. However, targeting the naturally fractured corridors away from the well for planning new drillable locations is a challenge. In general, the traditional methods have poor ability to spatially resolve the locations of fractures. Various standard attributes from the conventionally stacked full azimuth data w

Abstract

Adversity and continuous change challenge leaders, and even the most resolute and determined feel discouragement along their path in the corporate or entrepreneurial worlds. How do oil and gas organizations and the industry leaders build, foster and grow their resilience to cope with difficult periods and maintain the necessary focus on the ultimate goals in comparison with what does the theoretical approaches describe, is the matter of this paper. Leadership has to be grounded on resilience, as one skill cannot shine without the other. Resilience has been characterized as the ability of a person or an organization to recuperate, recover, bounce-back, adjust or even thrive following adversity, and is widely acknowledged as a complex, dynamic and multi-dimensional phenomenon (Waugh and Koster, 2014). Our paper highlights how resilience takes form in individuals and organizations, comparing theory and practical stands. The BP Deep-Water Horizon Oil Spill is one of the examples selected t

Abstract

Well integrity assurance and zonal isolation, are the main pillars for any oil and gas well, it was a practice in the past to evaluate cement behind casings for casings smaller than 13 3/8 inch, however with the increase in drilling deeper and more challenging wells, the need for evaluating cement behind larger and thicker casings became a necessity. Different logging companies have invested in their existing cement evaluation services and upgraded their tool designs, specifications, and increased tool operating range to address the larger and thicker casing requirements. By mid-2016, the upgraded tool measurements range was extended to evaluate up to 22-inch. KOC in South-East asset started developing their Marrat deep reservoir back in 2018, these wells are designed with large surface casings ranging between (18 5/8-inch and 24-inch) across their main reservoirs (Burgan) and the shallow water and gas bearing formations (Dammam, Radhuma, Tayarat, and Mishrif). Dammam, Radhuma, Tayarat

Abstract

Appraisal program of the deep gas/light oil from unconventional reservoirs in North Kuwait is strategically important to secure the challenging hydrocarbon production targets of Kuwait Oil Company (KOC). A very deep high-temperature/high pressure (HT/HP) dolomitic formation is at approximately 15, 000 ft (vertical), poses complex completion and producibility challenges. Exhaustive log suite and core analyses confirm some porosity development and gas shows. Unlike the proven carbonates up-hole in the same asset, the deepest dolomite units have extremely low permeability, and may not flow unless enhanced by a natural fissure network and/or hydraulic fracturing. Only a few wells have been attempted for completion in these deepest dolomite layers, which failed to flow even after matrix acidizing treatments. The effective completion design will require good understanding of formation mechanical properties and fluid leakoff behavior, leading to optimal horizontal wells to maximize reservoir

Abstract

Sabriya Mauddud original development plan was based on an inverted 9 spot pattern to produce oil from multi carbonate reservoir layers. Recently, Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) implemented a paradigm shift to an intensive campaign for drilling horizontal wells in the Mauddud Formation in North Kuwait. The lateral section extended for a long interval penetrating different facies of the Maudud carbonate reservoir. The need for advanced formation evaluation was highlighted as critical where the complex pore structure will play a big role in fluid mobility. Formation mobility in carbonate reservoirs has been always a challenge in any formation evaluation. The Sabriya Mauddud Formation is a ramp system, ranging from shallow restricted and barrier shoal / rudist buildup to outer ramp sedimentation. Mauddud carbonate is divided into two parts, a lower (Maj-MaG/F), belongs to outer to middle ramp dominated with intermittent influxes of Burgan delta shoreface sandstone sediments. The upper Mauddud (M

Abstract

The Upper Cretaceous Tuba Formation in Kuwait is a heterogeneously developed unconventional carbonate reservoir, which is overlain by the regional seal of Ahmadi Shale. The purpose of this study is to identify the flooding surfaces (FS), and facies associations (FA) as they are related to the reservoir characters of Tuba Formation. Thus, the concepts of FS and FA are effectively applied to describe and characterize the depositional and stratigraphic trends, stratified flow units, and the overall reservoir-layering scheme. The Tuba stratigraphic framework consists of twelve FA packages represented by several transgressive-regressive depositional cycles. In the lower to middle part, argillaceous wackestone, packstone, cleaner skeletal grainstone dominates whereas upper FA are interlayered with argillaceous mudstone and intraclastic wackestone to skeletal packstone. Analytical methods include thin section petrography, XRD, SEM, poro-perm, MICP data to evaluate the twelve FA packages into

Abstract

The Lower Fars Formation exposed at Jal Az-Zor escarpment north Kuwait is the largest outcrop site in the country. Despite its size and accessibility, little work is done to understand its depositional environment. This could be attributed to the complex architecture of the exposed facies, where dramatic changes in vertical and lateral facies distribution can be challenging to decipher. The complex facies architecture of the Lower Fars Formation exposed at Jal Az-Zor is analyzed in detail over a 3-year period. Multiple traverses and stations have been performed over the largest valley at Jal Az-Zor escarpment. The detailed analysis included outcrop facies description utilizing basic geological concepts and advanced analytics such as XRD/XRF lab analysis was performed. The main objective was to characterize the various facies and facies associations to identify the associated depositional environments. The field work resulted in the identification of sixteen facies that are grouped into

Abstract

The Miocene age shallow unconsolidated sandstone formation in Kuwait contains viscous oil whose distribution is primarily controlled by depositional facies and their diagenetic modifications. This study integrates core-calibrated resistivity images with openhole logs to obtain high-resolution facies logs with continuous array of oriented depositional structures, facies types, and environment-related facies associations with paleocurrents measurements. These are combined in defining reservoir zonation, geometry, spatial distribution and paleo-geographic evolution during its accretion across the field. The formation is characterized by variable grain sizes, sedimentary structures and diagenetic cementations. The sandstone succession is punctuated by scouring surfaces and separated by discrete mudstone intervals mixed with scattered bioclasts. The upper section of the formation encompasses two main oil-producing sandstone intervals (S1 & S2 reservoirs), separated by a mudstone unit (Mid S

Abstract

This is the first reporting of the Unayzah Formation from a northern Kuwait deep well where a 304 ft of core was cut in the upper part of the formation. The core consists of about 202 ft of the Unayzah Formation, 74 ft of the Basal Khuff Clastics and 28 ft of the Khuff Formation. Within the Unayzah Formation six major lithofacies were interpreted: (1) high-angle cross-bedded sandstone; (2) fine-grained sandstone; (3) normally graded coarse pebbly sandstone; (4) medium- to fine-grained sandstone and siltstone; (5) red mudstone and siltstone; and (6) black shale. In the Basal Khuff Clastics, four lithofacies were recognised: (1) fine- to medium-grained clean sandstone; (2) muddy bioturbated sandstone and siltstone; (3) dark grey to black carbonaceous shale with sand interbeds; and (4) interbedded sandstone, siltstone and dolomite. These lithofacies can be subdivided into four broad palaeoenvironments; ?eolian, braided fluvial, flood plain, and coastal plain. The possible eolian facies ar

Abstract

Two surveys were distributed to faculty and student members of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists in 2016 by the SEG Women's Network Committee (WNC). The surveys focused on assessing issues that women have raised about the academic environment. Student responses reveal that Geosciences department leadership (head/chairs) are critical to recruitment and retention of female and possibly other underrepresented groups. Despite positive actions including anti-harassment and parental-leave policies, the faculty responses indicate that gender-bias gaps still exist. One critical gap is that young female faculty are more likely than their male colleagues to be in non-tenure-track roles. Also, female academics are more likely to report age discrimination and uncomfortable social interactions with peers of the opposite sex. © 2018 SEG

Abstract

Two surveys were distributed to faculty and student members of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists in 2016 by the SEG Women's Network Committee (WNC). The surveys focused on assessing issues that women have raised about the academic environment. Student responses reveal that Geosciences department leadership (head/chairs) are critical to recruitment and retention of female and possibly other underrepresented groups. Despite positive actions including anti-harassment and parental-leave policies, the faculty responses indicate that gender-bias gaps still exist. One critical gap is that young female faculty are more likely than their male colleagues to be in non-tenure-track roles. Also, female academics are more likely to report age discrimination and uncomfortable social interactions with peers of the opposite sex. © 2018 SEG.

Abstract

A 16 km. long, 18″; Gas pipeline (HP055) was in service to transport High Pressure Gas from an oil gathering center in West Kuwait (WK) area since 2001. The Pipeline carried wet sour gas. It was inspected in 2008 using high resolution MFL-ILI tool. No significant corrosion was found. In late 2012, a leak developed in the pipeline. The leak was due to a crack along a spiral weld on the bottom. Inspection during repairs revealed severe internal pitting on the bottom. The pipeline continued to leak several times in the next year, eventually resulting in decommissioning of the pipeline. Another ILI could not be carried out due to operational constraints and frequent leaks. The Pipeline was critical in the operation of the oil gathering center, and the loss of it severally affected the gas/oil export target and the flaring reduction commitment. An internal failure investigation was inconclusive, though indicating possibility of sulfide stress cracking. The failure investigation work was the

Abstract

For the last 20 years, exploration in Kuwait has focused on finding commercial quantities of high quality oil in the deeper high pressure/high temperature (HTHP) Jurassic formations (13,000-17,000 ft), and for gas within the Triassic formations (17,000-21,000 ft). The HPHT conditions, the presence of H2S and CO2, the narrow pore pressure/fracture pressure (PP/FP) window to work with, and the high mud weights (18-20 ppg) required have made deep drilling conditions in Kuwait some of the most challenging in the world.This paper discusses the outstanding drilling performance achieved in drilling Ruadhatain 206 (RA-206) as the fastest deep Jurassic well to date in North Kuwait. New practices were incorporated and several firsts accomplished through optimum utilization of local built-in experience, combined with the latest technology and practices developed by International Operating Companies (IOC's) and service companies. Optimum bit selection resulted in a world record bit run in the 28″

Abstract

An extensive study was conducted to optimize the field development plan (FDP) with infill wells in water and miscible water-Alternating-gas (WAG) displacement processes for high and moderately heterogeneous areas of stratified carbonate reservoir. This reservoir is complex heterogeneities with numerous fractures, high perm steaks, multiple sub-layers with variable permeability and intrabed communication with other reservoirs. Within this reservoir, the wells have dual completion through short/ long strings. It is observed that injected water /gas is flowing through high permeability layers and leaving a lot of oil in un-swept area. Therefore, in order to sustain target oil production and improve recovery, this reservoir is currently undergoing re-development with different innovations including maximum reservoir contact (MRC) wells with line drive injection pattern drilled from different artificial islands, gas lift, infill wells, different tubing size strings, different types of well

Abstract

This 4D feasibility study for Wara-Burgan Cretaceous reservoir in Greater Burgan Field, Kuwait is attempted aiming to model the 4D effects, as water-flood aided production progresses over the future years. In the first phase of the study, a Petro Elastic Model (PEM) is calibrated to well data and changes of elastic parameters are computed for different scenarios of fluid saturation and reservoir pressure at well locations (1D data). In the second phase, 4D effects are computed at the whole reservoir interval using static and dynamic reservoir properties from flow simulation model. Spatial distribution of 4D effects and the effect of added noise and their relationship with respect to temporal variations of elastic properties are analyzed to fully understand their characteristics and investigate which monitoring network (Conventional or Permanent) can better record the features of 4D effect. © 2015 SEG.

Abstract

Steam foam processes can improve the thermal efficiency and overall economics of steam-based oil recovery methods. Foam reduces steam mobility, thus mitigating steam channelling and energy loss, particularly in presence of thief zones. This paper describes an integrated EOR study to develop a steamfoam process for the Ratqa Lower Fars (RQLF) heavy oil reservoir in Kuwait with more focus on chemical selection, formulation design and reservoir simulation. A variety of foaming surfactants were extensively evaluated in the lab based on the reservoir properties and operating conditions of the RQLF reservoir. This involved lab evaluation of thermal stability, adsorption, foam generation ability and foam rheology to select appropriate foaming surfactants. In parallel, multi-well/pattern steam-flooding simulations were performed to investigate the benefits of injecting foaming surfactants with steam. Different scenarios were considered and simulated mainly by varying the timing, duration and f

Abstract

Introduction. Iron deficiency (ID), and iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) are consistently associated with reduced maternal cognitive function and increased depressive disorders. In addition, the preterm delivery, and intra-uterine growth restriction were reported as an adverse neonatal outcome for ID and IDA. This study designed to evaluate the efficacy of ferric hydroxide polymaltose (FPM) in treatment of ID, and IDA during pregnancy. Materials and methods. One hundred and twenty-two women with ID (ferritin < 15 µg/L), and moderate IDA (haemoglobin ≥ 7 and < 10 g/dL) during pregnancy were included in this study. Studied women treated with FPM tablets for ≥ 3 months. The pre-treatment ferritin, haemoglobin, red blood cells (RBCs)-mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and -mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) were compared by post-treatment values. Results. The mean pre-treatment ferritin, and haemoglobin significantly increased from 12.4 ± ± 5.6 µg/L and 7.8 ± 3.3 g/dL; respectively to 116.5 ± 6.9

Abstract

Objectives: To compare accuracy of fetal fibronectin (fFN) versus placental alpha microglobulin-1 for detection of premature rupture of fetal membranes (PROM). Methods: Two hundred and twenty pregnant women >34 and <37 weeks were included in this comparative prospective study and divided into two groups according to presence or absence of PROM. The diagnosis of PROM was based on patient's history of sudden gush of water, pooling of amniotic fluid, positive ferning, positive nitrazine test, confirmed by visualization of fluid passing from the cervical canal and amniotic fluid index ≤5 cm measured by trans-abdominal ultrasound. Patients included in this study were examined by sterile speculum for visualization of membranes and for collection of samples (swabs) from posterior vaginal fornix. Results: Sensitivity and specificity of AmniSure test to diagnose PROM were 97.3 and 98.2 %, respectively, compared with 94.5 and 89.1 %, respectively, for fFN test. Positive predictive value, negativ

Abstract

Monitoring and continuous reservoir evaluation is very important aspect of a well-planned Waterflood program. Valuable well and reservoir information needs to be obtained during the course of waterflood operation, which helps in determining oil recovery and decide on the future strategy of the Waterflood program. Keeping this in view, KOC decided to drill some observation wells completed with cemented fiberglass casing for monitoring the flood performance in sandstone and carbonate reservoirs in two different fields. The use of fiberglass casing facilitates the application of some deep induction logging tools for measuring the changes in formation properties behind the casing. Vital information such as oil saturation change during waterflood operation, vertical sweep efficiency and arrival time of different fluid fronts can be determined from these log surveys in fiberglass casing. Cemented fiberglass casing and liners were used over the years globally mainly for observation wells and

Abstract

[No abstract available]

Abstract

Fracture characterization is vital for efficient field development of naturally fractured Carbonate reservoirs. Successful development of fracture reservoir in the study area was possible due to early recognition of fracture play right from the exploration phase and through careful execution of relevant data acquisition campaign in the initial stages of field development. Comprehensive and integrated studies have been carried out over the past few years to arrive at an understanding of the conceptual model in deciphering structural evolution of North Kuwait Jurassic. Extensive core and image log data was acquired in the initial stages of field appraisal, which helped in comprehensive forward planning in design of deviated and horizontal wells. The data analysis steps included accurate and reliable reorientation of the cores. These data were calibrated with the image logs, along with available seismic attributes, which resulted in better understanding of structural evolution and sweet s

Abstract

[No abstract available]

Abstract

Two multiphase flow meters (MPFM) working on different operating principles were tested (one at a time) in series with a conventional well testing system (test separators and a test tank) at an operating field in Kuwait. The first MPFM utilizes a fluid conditioner to separate the gas, which is measured by a vortex shedding flow meter. Liquid flow is measured with coriolis meter and the water cut is obtained by cyclic sampling and measurement of electrical characteristics and differential pressure between top and bottom of the sample chamber. The other MPFM employs a positive displacement meter, a venturimeter and microwave sensor to measure the flow of total fluid, gas and water respectively. A bypass loop with a vortex shedding flowmeter enables measurement of a larger range of gas flow rate. A number of wells covering a wide range of production rate (377 to 6661 bpd), gas oil ratio (207 to 945) and water cut (0 - 65%) were tested. A turbine flow meter was also included in the tests t

Abstract

In continuation with the efforts being done to achieve accurate liquid measurement performance at tank farms and to empower the commitment towards protecting the Company's net worth, high level of accuracy must be achieved when conducting manual and/or automatic measurement of the basic variables required for the determination of the net liquid asset at any time; i.e., level, temperature, density, free water, mass, amongst others. In this line and with the aim of maximizing the overall accuracy of the installed Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) system by reducing the effects caused by installation and operating conditions, an initiative has been implemented to upgrade the installation and supporting of the still pipe were the ATG is mounted and that of the official manual tank gauging (OMTG) still pipe utilized to verify the accuracy of the ATG. As a result of this initiative, minimal or no vertical movement of the ATG mounting location has been recorded and more stable ATG verification tes

Abstract

Mature carbonate reservoirs under waterflood in Kuwait suffer from relatively low oil recovery due to poor volumetric sweep efficiency, both areal, vertically, and microscopically. An Alkaline-Surfactant-Polymer (ASP) pilot using a regular five-spot well pattern is in progress targeting the Sabriyah Mauddud (SAMA) reservoir in pursuit of reserves growth and production sustainability. SAMA suffers from reservoir heterogeneities mainly associated with permeability contrast which may be improved with a conformance treatment to de-risk pre-mature breakthrough of water and chemical EOR agents in preparation for subsequent ASP injection and to improve reservoir contact by the injected fluids. Each of the four injection wells in the SAMA ASP pilot was treated with a chemical conformance improvement formulation. A high viscosity polymer solution (HVPS) of 200 cP was injected prior to a gelant formulation consisting of P300 polymer and X1050 crosslinker. After a shut-in period, wells were then

Abstract

North Kuwait heavy oil development continues to benefit from detailed study of outcrops at the Jal Az-Zor escarpment that are stratigraphic equivalents to some of their reservoirs. During the 2018-19 field season, focus was placed on recording the internal architectures of specific stratigraphic layers, developing a deeper understanding of the diagenetic processes in the basin and relating these observations to the North Kuwait reservoirs. These are all key controls on reservoir quality and connectivity. Inter-well scale heterogeneities were identified for inclusion into subsurface models to predict steam/polymer conformance and oil production better. Building on work of the 2017-18 field season when the Jal Az-Zor sequence was logged, measured, described and interpreted; units were tracked and correlated laterally for around 3km. Internal architectures of prominent layers were mapped through conventional and drone mounted photographic surveys, and satellite images. X-Ray Diffraction a

Abstract

After the liberation of Kuwait a large number of wells were blown up by the Iraqi troops, and some needed to be worked over before re-producing them. Around 100 wells were intact and were put back on production shortly after the liberation. Those wells are originally 40 to 50 years old, and the wellhead equipment on those wells were not changed or reconfigured with the current API standards until this date. Workover operations were delayed due to several issues concerning the wellheads. A project was assigned by KOC management in 2002 to inspect those wellheads and submit a report with the current status of the equipment, problems, and solutions. As a result of a full research made on those intact wells, the wells were segregated into 4 categories depending on the integrity and operational issues of the wellhead equipment. It was decided that some of those wellheads would only be reconfigured using a combination of the old and new equipment. Others will require total wellhead replaceme

Abstract

Efficient management of reservoirs and surface facilities requires accurate measurement of production fluids. Significant progress has been made in the development of multiphase flow meters (MPFM) for online measurement of well production. Metering schemes developed by different vendors used very different combinations of techniques and sensors. MPFM's differ in price, capability, strengths, and limitations. As a result, MPFM cannot be procured through competitive bidding on the basis of a single set of specifications. Kuwait Oil Co. evaluated MPFM in the field to choose the most suitable MPFM for future use. The field test of one of these MPFM is described.

Abstract

Due to limited surface locations in developed fields, more and more deep well applications are requiring directional work in top sections, still drilling through interbedded challenging formations with severe dynamics issue. With the collaboration of Kuwait Oil Company, this paper introduces a new 22″ PDC bit selection method based on 3D simulations of dual UCS transitions and its impact on a given cutting structure arrangement. Stability and balancing of the PDC Drill Bit is key to success when drilling a directional section, specially when drilling larger size hole with dynamic events amplified by the inertia of the BHA. Balancing the cutting structure when encountering interbedded soft - hard transition with a variable dip angle is mandatory to achieve planned trajectory together with ensuring a good borehole quality and minimal tortuosity. The design presented in this paper and the optimization made on its cutting structure with an in-house 3D simulation software will demonstrate h

Abstract

Upcoming Reservoirs in North Kuwait will play significant role for meeting NK's strategic production target. Recent full field study of Sabryia Tuba carbonate reservoir makes it the largest Oil in-Place of the Upcoming Reservoirs in NK. Sabriyah Tuba, though discovered in the 60's, is still relatively under exploited presently with only 13 active wells with very low total production rate compared to other reservoirs. High reservoir heterogeneity, tightness and poor fluid properties necessitate the application of new stimulation technology targeting good frac conductivity and deep penetration for effective productivity and recovery enhancement. With efforts of a multidisciplinary team, new acid frac fluid, diverter and high leak off control technologies have been designed and executed successfully in two stages covering multiple reservoir layers for the first time in Tuba. Tuba is tight multilayer limestone reservoir. Owing to the low reservoir transmissibility, even low average well pr