Abstract

To help optimize the new waterflood project in Wara reservoir of Magwa field, a high resolution single sensor land 3-D seismic survey pilot was conducted and a combination of methods, mainly rock physics analysis, seismic data inversion, multi-attribute analysis and neural network were used. The water injection started after completing the seismic acquisition where one well produced water while three wells showed low response to the pressure test. The output of the work includes refined reservoir interpretation and reservoir properties volumes to be used to enhance the waterflood project. © 2005 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.

Abstract

[No abstract available]

Abstract

The Makhul Formation in Kuwait currently is the subject of major investigation as both a conventional source rock and an unconventional reservoir. It has many oil and gas shows without proper conclusions that warranted further investigation. Geological studies could not be conducted with accuracy due to limited core data and image logs. The reservoir was considered too tight to be explored. The basal part of Makhul contains organic rich carbonate and has been established as a source rock for the Lower Cretaceous petroleum system. This source rock at the basal Makhul is playing a vital role in the middle and upper part of Makhul, where some sweet spots were observed. The presence of kerogen within the Makhul Formation at the basal part leads to misleading effective porosity calculations. Hence, this study was carried out to discriminate the basal part of the kerogen, to quantify the porosity of Makhul Formation, and to predict the rock properties. Simultaneous inversion was employed to

Abstract

The Makhul Formation in Kuwait currently is the subject of major investigation as both a conventional source rock and an unconventional reservoir. It has many oil and gas shows without proper conclusions that warranted further investigation. Geological studies could not be conducted with accuracy due to limited core data and image logs. The reservoir was considered too tight to be explored. The basal part of Makhul contains organic rich carbonate and has been established as a source rock for the Lower Cretaceous petroleum system. This source rock at the basal Makhul is playing a vital role in the middle and upper part of Makhul, where some sweet spots were observed. The presence of kerogen within the Makhul Formation at the basal part leads to misleading effective porosity calculations. Hence, this study was carried out to discriminate the basal part of the kerogen, to quantify the porosity of Makhul Formation, and to predict the rock properties. Simultaneous inversion was employed to

Abstract

Key challenges to seismic imaging of shallow heavy oil recovery in North Kuwait include how to acquire high quality seismic data, and how to carry out seismic inversion and quantitative interpretation (QI) for reservoir characterization. Kuwait Oil Company acquired a high resolution baseline 3D seismic survey over an area of 700m × 700m in January 2017, followed by a six week time-lapse 4D seismic survey, as part of geophysical monitoring project for studying the reservoir and associated steam flood pilot performance. This paper presents the technical methodology and interpretation results of these 3D and 4D seismic surveys. Highly pressurized and heated steam injected into a reservoir will move in all directions to drive out in situ heavy oil. It is important to understand where the steam has traveled to, which is controlled by reservoir properties such as formation pressure, porosity, and permeability. Seismic inversion and quantitative Interpretation (QI) are proven tools that can e

Abstract

This paper presents a case study for lithology prediction of the Wara Formation in Kuwait, using the prestack geostatistical inversion technique. The main objectives were to discriminate sand from shale, and to identify thin sand layers within Wara Formation. Petrophysical analysis and rock physics modeling were carried out to condition well logs, as reliable logs are required for lithology classification and inversion. Detailed well log statistics analysis (vertical size, statistical layer constrains, lithologies and their proportions) was carried out, and these statistical parameters were direct inputs for the geostatistical inversion. Seismic angle stacks were amplitude-balanced and aligned properly. Several inversion QC procedures were incorporated in the workflow to determine inversion parameters, and to optimize the quality of inversion results. The inverted elastic properties (P-impedance, S-impedance, and Vp/Vs) and discrete property (lithology) were generated by integrating we

Abstract

A 2D seismic reflection line for shallow targets in north Kuwait was acquired in December of 2010 with varying source types: explosives, accelerated weight drop, small 15,000 lb vibrator, and heavy 80,000 lb vibrator. The exploration target is shallow at around 100 ms to 400 ms two-way time TWT. The objective of the study was to establish the optimal source effort for a planned 3D survey. The accelerated weight drop proved to be inferior to the other source types because the data lacked high-frequency content. Explosive data benefit from the absence of engine noise and less surface-wave noise compared to the other source types used; yet, the overall energy penetration was not as good as expected. The best data were achieved with vibrators. The small 15,000 lb vibrator produced less engine noise, but fell somewhat short with the observed frequency bandwidth compared to the heavy 80,000 lb vibrator because of vibrator design and energy penetration. The final stacked sections of the two v

Abstract

To identify a thin tight carbonate reservoir facies is one of the most challenging exploration task due to its spatial variation in terms of depostional settings, tectonics and diagenesis. The gross depositional environment plays a crucial role for insitu carbonate reservoir facies. However, the reservoir facies preservation depends on subsequent carbonate diagenesis. Though, the degree of diagenesis sometimes enhances the porosity but occasionally it ceases the porosity. However, the usage of the conventional seismic data analysis as well as state of the art tools like quantitative seismic inversion based reservoir characterization, geostatistical approach of waveform classification and the advent of the new machine learning tools like probabilistic fault likelihood, thin likelihood abetted to encompass the spatial variation, to identify the presence and hetrogeneity of the reservoir facies. Here, we have utilised these seismic tools through an integrated approach with other geologica

Abstract

During early 1994, Kuwait Oil Company and Schlumberger completed an extensive study of the Seismic-While-Drilling technique in two development wells in the Raudhatain field of North Kuwait. Seismic-While-Drilling records the energy radiated from a working drillbit (utilized as a seismic source), with receivers placed at the surface. This technology provides well seismic information such as checkshot and look ahead Vertical Seismic Profiling services at the wellsite, in real-time. The technique does not interfere with the drilling process nor does it require deploying any downhole hardware. The result of the study is that the Seismic-While-Drilling technique can work successfully in the Raudhatain field. © 1996 Gulf Petrolink. All Rights Reserved.

Abstract

Selected technology for Makeup (MU) and Produced Water (PW) Treatment of thermal facilities (Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS), Steam Flood (SF) and Steam Assisted Gravity Drain (SAGD) plays an important role in the CAPEX and OPEX of the plant. This paper summarizes merits and demerits of the available technologies for PW treatment and presents a case study to establish the best solution for the ongoing design of the commercial plant of Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) for its initial phase of operation. To meet the production target, the time for collecting design data for PW from the pilot is not available to select the proper technology for PW treatment. Due to lack of proper analysis of PW, a conservative approach was made to select the PW treatment technology by using the analysis of the formation water with high Total Dissolved Solid (TDS). For the high TDS the selected technology was Mechanical Vapour Compression (MVC) system, a unit with high CAPEX and OPEX and is totally a new technology

Abstract

Every field development plan should go through a 'quantitative' option ranking process in order to select the optimum scenario for developing that field. Doing so efficiently will help in identifying the optimum project concept for the delivery of value to Kuwait Oil Company. An example of where such a ranking process was essential was in the development plan for the Minagish Reservoir in the Greater Burgan Field. Within South-East Kuwait asset, this reservoir has to be treated 'unconventionally' since its Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) concentration is high, in relation to the ability of the existing facilities to handle sour crude production. This has contributed to the low recovery factor from this reservoir which has been on production for over 50 years. Therefore, a new surface development plan for this reservoir had to be generated to assist KOC in meeting/sustaining its production targets for the year 2020 onward. The choice for optimum surface production scenario came through a 'quanti

Abstract

Background: Sengers syndrome is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by congenital cataract, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, skeletal myopathy and lactic acidosis. Mutations in the acylglycerol kinase (AGK) gene have been recently described as the cause of Sengers syndrome in nine families. Methods. We investigated the clinical and molecular features of Sengers syndrome in seven new families; five families with the severe and two with the milder form. Results: Sequence analysis of AGK revealed compound heterozygous or homozygous predicted loss-of-function mutations in all affected individuals. A total of eight different disease alleles were identified, of which six were novel, homozygous c.523-524delAT (p.Ile175Tyrfs∗2), c.424-1G > A (splice site), c.409C > T (p.Arg137∗) and c.877 + 3G > T (splice site), and compound heterozygous c.871C > T (p.Gln291∗) and c.1035dup (p.Ile346Tyrfs∗39). All patients displayed perinatal or early-onset cardiomyopathy and cataract, clinical features

Abstract

There are no established data about lymphadenectomy during treatment of endometrial cancers (ECs) and to what extent lymphadenectomy should be performed. In addition, retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy increases the intraoperative and postoperative complications. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping has the lowest costs and highest quality-adjusted survival. SLN is the most cost-effective strategy in the management of low-risk ECs. Women staged with SLN mapping were more likely to receive adjuvant treatment compared with women staged with systemic lymphadenectomy. This review article designed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and the methods of SLN detection in ECs. © 2019 Gynecology and Minimally Invasive Therapy.

Abstract

High-resolution biostratigraphic and paleoenvironmental investigations have been integrated with sedimentology and wireline log data to establish a biostratigraphically constrained depositional sequence stratigraphic framework. The Rumaila and Mishrif formations are early to middle Cenomanian to early Turonian in age. The Rumaila Formation was deposited in distal inner ramp to outer ramp settings. The Mishrif Formation was deposited in inner to middle ramp settings comprising transitional, tidal flats, lagoonal, shoal, backshoal and foreshoal sub-settings. The two formations are coincident with 3rd order depositional sequences K130 and K140. The K130 sequence boundary lies on the contact between the lagoonal, non-calcareous shale of the upper Ahmadi Formation and the carbonates and highly calcareous shale of the Rumaila Formation. The K130 transgressive systems tract is composed of a highly calcareous marine shale at the base of Rumaila Forma-tion, which contains abundant to common nan

Abstract

A new sequence-stratigraphic framework is proposed for the Burgan and Mauddud formations (Albian) of Kuwait. This framework is based on the integration of core, well-log, and biostratigraphic data, as well as seismic interpretation from giant oil fields of Kuwait. The Lower Cretaceous Burgan and Mauddud formations form two third-order composite sequences, the older of which constitutes the lowstand, transgressive, and highstand sequence sets of the Burgan Formation. This composite sequence is subdivided into 14 high-frequency, depositional sequences that are characterized by tidal-influenced, marginal-marine deposits in northeast Kuwait that grade into fluvial-dominated, continental deposits to the southwest. The younger composite sequence consists of the lowstand sequence set of the uppermost Burgan Formation and transgressive and highstand sequence sets of the overlying Mauddud Formation. This composite sequence is sand prone and mud prone in southern and southwestern Kuwait and is c

Abstract

The 2nd Eocene dolomite reservoir is one of the major producers in the giant Wafra Field of the Divided Zone between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The reservoir is of Paleocene age and occurs in the Tertiary Umm Er Radhuma Formation. The reservoir has been producing since late 1950's primarily under depletion drive. Recoveries, however, remain poor (about 5% of OIIP) mainly due to low-gravity oil and reservoir heterogeneity. A geological model that better defines reservoir heterogeneity is a pre-requisite for evaluating and implementing EOR techniques. Primary porosity in subtidal dolomitized carbonates associated with evaporites, as well as its later modification by dolomitization, dissolution and cementation, typically occurs in multiple zones formed within shallowing upward cycles. This paper attempts to identify such high frequency cycles in the Wafra 2nd Eocene Reservoir and place them in a sequence stratigraphic framework. Based on core analysis, and well log correlations in more than

Abstract

A high resolution biostratigraphic and paleoenvironmental investigations were integrated with sedimentology and wireline-log-data to establish a sequence stratigraphic framework of Rumaila/Mishrif section, Kuwait. The biostratigraphic analysis of over 500 core/chips from 9 wells recognized six 4th order sequences over the study section. All the identified sequences correlated regionally. Three 4th order sequences were identified within the Rumaila Formation: RU100, RU200, and RU300. The RU100-SB lies on the boundary between the non-calcareous restricted shale of the upper Ahmadi Formation and the highly fossiliferous, calcareous marine shale at base of Rumaila Formation. The RU100 and RU200 sequences are represented by marine calcareous shale or marl containing common nannofossils and marine microfossils at their MFSs. The RU300-SB lies on top of the shallower facies, poorly fossiliferous highstand of the under-laying sequence. The RU300-MFS is indicated by abundant micro/nannofossils.

Abstract

In the framework of subsurface exploration, the availability of non-seismic datasets represents a great opportunity to complement and enrich seismic processing and imaging with independent geophysical information. In the presence of heterogeneous datasets, the definition of the optimal workflow is paramount to fully leverage the uniqueness of each of the measurements involved. A novel workflow involving electromagnetic, gravity and seismic datasets, combined in a multi-step sequential and simultaneous joint inversion approach is presented in the context of near-surface characterization and statics, with application to a survey recently acquired in the Middle East. By maximizing the information extracted from the multiphysics dataset, effective and accurate near surface modeling is achieved, leading to a static solution superior to the seismic-only benchmark. Finally, the multiphysics modeling capabilities are extended to depth imaging for initial velocity model building. © 81st EAGE Co

Abstract

We use shear waves generated by dipole sonic sources to image near-borehole structure from a deviated well penetrating low-angle structure. The best imaging was achieved using a technique to create the velocity model based on the geometry of the structure relative to the borehole. This result required first an imaging pass using the standard technique of simply taking a smoothed shear wave velocity curve derived from the recorded shear sonic velocity log as the background velocity model, and then using the apparent bed boundaries imaged relative to the borehole to derive a 2D velocity model, which then can be updated via iteration. Results showed a much improved reflection image that was accurate to the known structure penetrated by the borehole. © 2019 SEG

Abstract

We use shear waves generated by dipole sonic sources to image near-borehole structure from a deviated well penetrating low-angle structure. The best imaging was achieved using a technique to create the velocity model based on the geometry of the structure relative to the borehole. This result required first an imaging pass using the standard technique of simply taking a smoothed shear wave velocity curve derived from the recorded shear sonic velocity log as the background velocity model, and then using the apparent bed boundaries imaged relative to the borehole to derive a 2D velocity model, which then can be updated via iteration. Results showed a much improved reflection image that was accurate to the known structure penetrated by the borehole. © 2019 SEG

Abstract

For managing limited resources, short and medium horizontal sidetracks offer feasible options for non-conventional well work-over. Sidetracking into horizontal lateral is preferred over other options due to improved productivity. Many short-radius horizontal sidetrack wells with high Dog Leg Severity (DLS) have successfully been drilled and completed with Inflow Control Device (ICD) in carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East, however in case of sandstone reservoirs it poses a great challenge. This technology, which envisages short and medium radius horizontal sidetrack from existing well bore for optimal utilization of asset, was applied in a sick well from Greater Burgan field in Kuwait. A window was cut in existing 7″ casing and 6 1/2" drain hole was drilled up to 6016′ MD. Initially this well was planned for sidetrack into main sand with maximum 35° DLS and feasibility study was done. But due to mechanical complications during work-over it was kicked off shallower, cutting shale abo

Abstract

Available geochronological information on Deccan indicates prolonged (started at 68.5 Ma) alkaline magmatism related to the Réunion mantle plume based on the40 Ar/39 Ar ages from Sarnu-Dandali and Mundwara alkaline complexes. We studied in detail an alkaline lamprophyre, from the Sarnu-Dandali Complex, rich in groundmass (magmatic) as well as xenocrystic phlogopites and clinopyroxenes.40 Ar/39 Ar age determinations of the phlogopites from this lamprophyre reveal two distinct ages of 65.44 + 1.5 Ma and 68.17 + 1 Ma. However, palaeomagnetic results show a VGP at 32.31° N and 298.52° E concordant with that of the Deccan Super Pole at 65.5 Ma and support the younger eruption age at c. 65.44 + 1.5 Ma. Analysed phlogopites lack any signs of retention of excess radiogenic Ar and yield similar inverse isochron ages, which suggests that the older age of c. 68.17 + 1 Ma belongs to the crystallization of xenocrystic phlogopite during mantle metasomatism. Trace element compositions support derivat

Abstract

Deviated wellbores are more common-place in the industry in recent years as Maximum Reservoir Contact (MRC) is the preferred strategy in wellbore construction. These high-angle, tortuous wellbores, however, have now limited the artificial lift options to Electric Submersible Pumping systems which are capable of sustained life cycles in high-watercut, low-pressure, and/or low-rate completions. Production logging and Coiled Tubing intervention in multi-layered completions and/or multi-compartment horizontal laterals equipped with Electrical Submersible Pumping systems has customarily been a major challenge, especially when the bypass fluid velocities are below the motor-cooling threshold for a conventional Y-tool configuration. An innovative design comprising of a shrouded Electric Submersible Pump with Y-tool combination is able to facilitate access to any completion that requires production logging and/or CT intervention. At relatively low fluid rates, the shroud over the Electric Subm

Abstract

It is critical to manage the temperature rise seen in the electrical power system and submersible motor, in order to have an optimum Electrical Submersible Pump (ESP) run life. This paper presents a case study in which a solution was applied to better manage the heat rise seen in the ESP during operations, particularly in low flow applications, that has led to a measurable increase in ESP run life across the field. A Middle Eastern Operator of ESPs had installed wells completed with Y-tools and ESPs that showed unusually high motor temperatures and shorter than expected system run lives. A study was conducted, and the remedial action implemented was to install a shroud around the Y- tool, reducing the flow space in the annulus thus increasing the velocity of fluid past the motor. The study compared the data gathered from the shrouded and non- shrouded Y-tool ESP installations to determine the effectiveness of the corrective actions. Motor temperature is a function of bottom hole

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to show the effect of non-HC gases NHG on critical fluid characterization of HPHT discovered deep Jurassic reservoir in north Kuwait in addition to Fluid characterization and compartmentalization with objective of assessing HC potential, well deliverability and reservoir fluid & rock characteristics. Jurassic reservoirs in the state of Kuwait are deep and tight with High-Pressure and High-Temperature (HPHT) environment. The discovery well was drilled targeting the Marrat formation to prove hydrocarbon in this area. The well was successfully completed & tested and then a complete set of surface & subsurface data was acquired including production measurements and downhole P/T gauge data. The produced fluid was found highly sour and of critical-nature Therefore, a detailed fluid characterization process plus a fully-integrated G&G and Engineering analyses were performed to distinguish the fluid nature whether it is Volatile Oil or Gas Condensate and to prove

Abstract

Kuwait Oil Company is the premier Oil & Gas Company in the Gulf region involved in exploration and production of oil & gas reserves. The Company is one of the subsidiaries of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, State of Kuwait. In line with the Company strategy to improve its production capacity from current 3.0 Million BPD to 4.0 Million BPD, the company deployed many on-shore drilling rigs on a fast track basis during past two years. Present Rig Fleet includes 25 deep drilling rigs and 60 development drilling & work over Rigs. The Company has established the HSE Management System and procedures based on the international standards to focus on the health, safety of workers and environmental protection. Since majority of Rig fleet is deployed in desert remote areas, where there is a challenge in response time during any emergency situation. Various Initiatives and improvements programs were implemented to avoid such emergency at first place, which resulted in enhanced HSE performance especia

Abstract

A regular 5-spot pattern has been used to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of polymerflooding after water-flooding using high salinity effluent water (up to 200,000 ppm TDS) for the Umm Niqa Lower Fars (UNLF) reservoir using a sulfonated synthetic polymer (Polymer A) that was selected based on extensive lab evaluation followed by a one-spot EOR pilot (Al-Murayri et al., 2020). Upon acquiring positive one-spot EOR pilot results, it was decided to proceed with a regular 5spot water-flooding/polymer-flooding pilot composed of 4 injectors, one producer, and one disposal well. Water-flooding started in 2021 and continued for approximately 1.5 years. After establishing a water-flooding baseline, polymer-flooding was initiated by late 2022. An integrated surveillance/monitoring protocol has been established including downhole pressure/temperature sensors, wellhead gauges, flowmeters, in-line viscometer(s), well logging, passive/partitioning tracer campaigns and detailed lab analysis o

Abstract

Kuwait Oil Company is currently producing around 3.2 MMBOPD out of which the major share of 1.7MMBOPD is produced by South East Kuwait asset (SEK). SEK has 14 Gathering centers (GC) with an average of 100 flowing completion per GC. It has always been a challenge to test individual completion to get correct rate and other well test parameters not only to calculate the exact production potential of the GC but also to back allocate the rates to the reserves produced. Since long time the prevailing practice in SEK was to test individual wells in the GC using GC test separator and as well as testing wells by portable test units. The rates obtained from above two methods were used to be compared with the expected calculated rates based on PI calculations and other reservoir properties. The GC test is done by diverting the well manually to GC test separator which does not incur any additional cost to the company compared to portable test which done by service company hired by KOC well surveil

Abstract

Introduction: To evaluate sildenafil citrate as an adjuvant to clomiphene citrate (CC) for ovulation induction (OI) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Material and methods: A total of 595 infertile PCOS women were randomly assigned into either clomiphene/sildenafil (C/S) group or CC group. Transvaginal (TVS)-Doppler studies were done for participants when the dominant follicle reach 16 mm, to measure the resistance index, pulsatility index, and maximum velocity of sub-endometrial, uterine, and ovarian vessels. Participants were examined using TVS on the 21st day of the cycle to detect ovulation or, after a positive pregnancy test, for documentation of pregnancy. Participants with negative pregnancy tests were given 2 months’ rest without OI, followed by crossover of OI medication between the 2 studied groups. The crossover results were assessed by TVS, TVS-Doppler, and pregnancy test. Results: The endometrial thickness was significantly higher among the C/S than the CC gro

Abstract

Production in the Upper Burgan reservoir began in the Raudhatain and Sabriyah fields in 1959 and 1970, respectively. However, significant quantities of original oil remain in the reservoir; although the Upper Burgan fields have both been in production for more than 56 years, the offtake to date is a relatively small percentage of the potential ultimate recovery. The sandstone of the Upper Burgan is typically fine grained. Porosities average 25% and can reach 30% in the best quality sands. Horizontal permeability values of 200 to 700 md are common, with variation in vertical permeability caused by changes in the texture and structure of the reservoir. In 1995, the operator initiated a strategy to significantly increase production from these North Kuwait fields by integrating a multidisciplinary team from within the operating company. Waterflooding was part of the Upper Burgan development plan, during which the heterogeneous reservoir was expected to encounter early water breakthrough co

Abstract

The Greater Burgan field in Kuwait is the largest sandstone oilfield in the world. Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) recognizes that enhanced oil recovery (EOR) is of strategic importance to maximize recovery and extend field life. We studied several EOR options using reservoir simulation to evaluate the benefits of using low salinity waterflood (LSW), low salinity polymer (LSP) injection and high salinity polymer (HSP) injection applications in Wara and Burgan upper (3SU) reservoirs. Full-field reservoir-simulation with adequate resolution for EOR assessment of giant fields (e.g., Greater Burgan) is computationally expensive, if even possible. To overcome this, we ran high-resolution sectormodels, representing different areas, with inputs from laboratory and single-well-chemical-tracer-tests and generated type-curve profiles (e.g. oil recovery vs. cumulative pore-volume injection). A scaling-up tool was developed that considers infrastructure-facility constraints (e.g., high- and low-salinity

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a multi-scenario approach that involves the simulation of chemical EOR processes (polymer- and surfactant-based) for the Ratqa Lower Fars heavy oil (200-1000 cP) field in Kuwait, in order to evaluate the viability of implementing an appropriate chemical EOR strategy. Both technical and economic results are discussed. The approach used involves the simulation of various chemical EOR scenarios (injection of chemical slugs with different durations and concentrations) using several wells patterns (inverted 5-spot, inverted 9-spot, inverted 7-spot with vertical wells, line-drive with horizontal wells) covering various sizes in terms of area. Preliminary simulations of depletion and waterflooding scenarios were also conducted, as base cases to be compared to. Hundreds of EOR scenarios were hence simulated and compared using economic indicators such as the final recovery factor and the cost of chemicals per additional barrel of oil produced, compared to the

Abstract

Successful implementations of Single Well Chemical Tracer (SWCT) Tests have opened up new opportunities for reserves growth in North Kuwait reservoirs with water flood and with use of Enhanced Oil Recovery methods (EOR). Series of SWCT Tests have been carried out with water flood and ASP (Alkaline Surfactant Polymer) as a part of the EOR project in Sabiriyah Mauddud (SAMA) reservoir to evaluate the efficiency of chemical EOR agent (ASP) in reducing the residual oil saturation. SAMA reservoir is very heterogeneous carbonate reservoir and results of SWCT tests reflect the reservoir complexity of SAMA. Produced tracer profiles do no show a sharp identifiable peak as seen in case of tests conducted in sandstone reservoir. Though these tests provided valuable information about residual oil saturation with water flood (Sorw) and residual oil saturation with ASP injection (Sorc), a need was felt to model these tests to have a better understanding of the controlling parameters affecting tracer

Abstract

An integrated workflow for near-surface characterization and statics computation has been presented. The Simultaneous Joint Inversion of seismic refracted and surface waves together with the MT measurement proved to be a robust modeling approach in the area, which outperformed the seismic-only refraction tomographic capabilities in the presence of complex near surface geology. The statics computation based on the SJI model also provided a more geological solution granting a higher quality of the seismic stack image.

Abstract

A recent study showed that Tuba reservoir, a limestone-rich formation, has the highest oil in-place of all upcoming reservoirs in North Kuwait. This tight formation has three main layers - Tuba Upper (TU), Tuba Middle (TM), and Tuba Lower (TL) with several reservoir units alternating with non-pay intervals. The reservoir units contain significant proven oil reserves; however, production performance after conventional acid fracturing treatments has been historically subpar. As part of new development plan, two horizontal wells, one in TU and one in TL were drilled to evaluate the production potential of a new completion strategy and technologies. This paper presents one such technology, a single-phase retarded acid system used as a pilot project study. In contrast with previous conventional emulsified acid systems, the single-phase retarded acid minimized tubing friction, thus enabling high pumping rates for the entire treatment. Alternating with the acid system, a viscoelastic surfacta

Abstract

In seismic data acquisition, the industry is facing a challenge to extend the implementation of temporal sampling principles to the spatial domain as the initial sampling interval in space impacts operational efficiency and is constrained by the availability of a sufficient number of sensors and the capacity and dynamic range of the recording instruments in addition to cost considerations. The use of single-sensor seismic acquisition has the potential to solve the aliasing problems associated with inadequate special sampling. This paper presents the reasoning behind conducting single-sensor 3D seismic surveys in onshore Kuwait and the quality of the results obtained. © 2005 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.

Abstract

In early 2004, KOC conducted the first single-sensor onshore 3D seismic survey in the Gulf area because of the increasing need to image the complexity of the potential hydrocarbon traps. The motivation was also to understand the fracture and pressure regimes within multiple reservoirs, ranging from the Cretaceous down through the Jurassic to the potential new plays in the deep Permian formations. Detailed analysis of the 3D pilot study carried out over the Minagish oil field showed that the technique is capable of delivering accurate images and detailed reservoir properties. Since then, the company has acquired and processed several single-sensor 3D seismic surveys over its major oilfields and prospective areas in Kuwait. Recently, KOC designed the largest, high-resolution, full-azimuth, long-offset 3D seismic survey worldwide, which is currently being acquired with 210,000 channels in North Kuwait to achieve several challenging exploration and development objectives. © 2013 EAGE.

Abstract

The nature of operator / consultant relationship is constantly evolving under the stresses of resource demand / supply gap and emerging oilfield technologies needed to explore for and develop the increasingly complex hydrocarbon sources. Service companies entered into turnkey or 'oil for services' type of payment in the 90's. Never mind the results of these risk ventures, but there were fewer opportunities for confusion. The present situation of increased operator work load, professional resource constraints, and Service Company emerging integrated technologies ownership combined with their IPM skills has created an opportunity for joint teams assignment of large development projects. But, there is now less contractor willingness to sign shared risk contracts. Hence, the operators need to more clearly identify their external support needs and spend the required time in order to sign Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Recordable and Tractable (SMART) contracts. Vague contracts with unide

Abstract

The change in global oil price has led Oil producing companies to chase each and every barrel of oil either through optimizing their production or through minimizing the production losses pertaining to various reasons. The Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has a vision to increase its production to 4 MMBOPD by year 2030. To fulfill this vision KOC has designed a Digital Oil Field system which is unique in world in various aspects. This Digital Oil Field is designed to achieve two main objectives, first objective is to minimize the oil production losses associated with downtime and second objective is to optimize the oil production at network and field level. To achieve its first objective KOC designed various workflows to chase the losses and identify its root cause. Once the root cause is identified the issue are fixed in minimum possible time. The workflows designed to achieve this objective were all combined under one main workflow Smart Production Surveillance (SPS). The Smart Production Su

Abstract

This paper describes the mobilization of a snubbing unit and blowout preventer (BOP) stack in the Middle East that enabled a well with an underground blowout and surface broaching to be brought under control within a short time. The mobilization timeline is provided, along with details about how the snubbing unit and BOPs were integrated with existing equipment to enable re-entry into the blowout well. The procedures and equipment used to enable a stable rig-up and well entry are discussed. The paper also describes the situation within the well and the procedures used to bring it under control. © 2020 Society of Petroleum Engineers. All rights reserved.

Abstract

The 12-1/4-in. directional application is one of the most challenging applications in North Kuwait. The section requires drilling from the Mutriba (Santonian) to Burgan (Albina) formations through highly interbedded, high-compressive-strength carbonates (limestone and dolomite), sandstones, and shales. In recent years, Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has tested many different bit designs in an attempt to minimize stick/slip vibrations and maximize the rate of penetration (ROP). This paper presents the technology used to nearly eliminate stick/slip vibrations, leading to a field record (and a consistent performance) for this application, as well as the process used to develop the technology. The interval was drilled using a rotary steerable system (RSS) to maximize wellbore quality and to provide consistent build-up rates (BUR) required. Parameters run in this application are often limited because stick/slip becomes uncontrollable when transitioning through the many formation types. In additio

Abstract

The 16" Vertical Performance Motor Section is the most challenging section in Exploration Deep Drilling in Burgan Field & All South East Kuwait. The section comprises drilling hard and abrasive Zubair formation followed by reactive Ratawi Shale formation. Several technologies were introduced during the last ten years in search of an economic solution to deliver this section safer and faster with limited success. The objective of this paper is to present the process and technology implemented to drill Zubair and Ratawi Shale formations in two different wells with the same bit at record rates of penetration. Bit durability is generally the main driver in the 16? section performance. Historically, one to two polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits were utilized in this section and were pulled out for low penetration rates. The new solution required a thorough offset data analysis, including formation porosity, rock strength and abrasiveness analysis, applied drilling parameters and Mec

Abstract

The general outline of nature and extent of corrosion that can occur, both internally and externally, are described and some methods of inspection enumerated. Repair and/or mitigation methods available are also discussed. (This paper was originally presented at the Second Kuwait Symposium of the Institute of Petroleum, March 1964). © 1967, MCB UP Limited

Abstract

36 patients were followed up for periods of 11-18 years after treatment for urinary schistosomiasis. Clinically they remained well; generally their urological lesions regressed and in no patient did the lesions increase significantly in severity. Under favourable conditions the prognosis may be very good for some patients with S. haematobium infection. © 1973, Oxford University Press. All rights resevered.

Abstract

Objective: To compare the cervical length measured by TVS with modified Bishop's score for cervical assessment before induction of labor. Methods: One hundred and twenty women in their first pregnancy were admitted for induction of labor. Digital vaginal examination was done to record the modified Bishop's score, followed by TVS to detect the cervical length. The method of induction of labor was decided after the initial vaginal examination, when the modified Bishop's score was evaluated. Dinoprostone pessary was used for labor induction if the Bishop score was < 5 (unfavourable cervix), and amniotomy was usually performed when the cervix was 3 cm dilated, and the presenting part was low (0 station). Results: The cervical length measured by TVS was significantly shorter in the patients delivered vaginally, compared with the patients delivered by cesarean section (24.7±6.9) versus (26.5±8.2) mm; respectively. A total of 72 (78.3%) of the patients delivered vaginally, and 10 (35.7%) of t

Abstract

Background: Echocardiography and the N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level are important tests for assessing left ventricular function in patients presenting to the emergency department with acute dyspnea. Chest ultrasound is becoming an important tool in diagnosing acute pulmonary edema. Aim: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of chest ultrasound examination using echocardiography and a curvilinear probe for detecting B-lines in patients presenting with acute pulmonary edema compared with assessment using NT-proBNP. Methods: This paper reports a prospective observational study of 61 consecutive patients presenting with symptoms and signs of pulmonary edema and B-profile detected by echocardiography with a 5 MHz curvilinear probe. The emergency department physicians ordered NT-proBNP levels, and critical care physicians trained in ultrasound examination performed echocardiography and chest ultrasounds. The findings of the chest ultrasound were reviewed by anoth

Abstract

A combination of nuclear magnetic-resonance (NMR) and azimuthal acoustic tools has recently become an optional sourceless porosity logging-while-drilling (LWD) tool. This tool combination was used in Kuwait as a part of the bottomhole assembly (BHA) only once before, but this time, we were able to draw a comparison with density-neutron logs taken from the same well as it was run in wipe mode for a specific interval. A deviated 8.5-in. pilot hole was planned through sand-shale sequences in a geological section which is deemed to be critical from a borehole-stability point of view. Borehole deterioration and significant variations in pore pressure can increase the risk for the drillstring to become stuck in hole. The use of conventional porosity tools in an LWD BHA with radioactive sources would elevate the risks to an environmental-hazard level. In addition, retrievable-based sources can also be problematic during extraction in high-angle wells. LWD NMR and azimuthal acoustic tools, fre

Abstract

A combination of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and azimuthal acoustic tools was recently run in a logging-while-drilling (LWD) tool combination. This tool combination was used for the first time in Kuwait as a part of the bottomhole assembly (BHA), in addition to conventional tools, to acquire porosity without using radioactive sources. A deviated 8.5-in. borehole section of a well was planned through sand-shale sequences with a borehole inclination ranging from 0 to 90°. This geological section is typically crucial from a borehole stability point of view. Borehole deterioration and significant variations in pore pressure can create a high risk of becoming stuck-in-hole. The use of conventional porosity tools in a LWD BHA with installed radioactive sources would significantly elevate the risks to an environmental-hazard level. And, even retrievable based sources become problematic for successful extraction in high angle wells. LWD NMR and azimuthal acoustic tools, free of radioactiv

Abstract

Azimuthal acoustic logging-while-drilling (LWD) sensors have recently been used in a bottomhole assembly (BHA) to evaluate the viability of sourceless formation evaluation compared to conventional density-neutron data acquired in the same run in a horizontal well across a carbonate sequence. Borehole deterioration and significant pore pressure variations across the reservoir layers pose wellbore stability risks during the drilling phase, which has historically requireddrilling deviated pilot-hole sections for evaluation purposes. These sections were then plugged, backed, and sidetracked. Previous experiences in the same geological setting also encountered extreme borehole enlargements. LWD helped acquire high-quality data before borehole enlargement occurred. Additionally, possible rock anisotropy indications were observed, and rock mechanical moduli were derived. The results were then correlated and normalized to existing field geomechanics knowledge and offset well data. Azimuthal ac

Abstract

Clay minerals are commonly observed in the Neogene succession of North Kuwait, both in the two viscous oil rich sandstone reservoirs (S1, S2) and intervening shale layers. SEM and XRD analysis of the core samples explain that Smectite is the dominant and Palygorskite, Illite and Kaolinite as minor clay mineral constituents. The paper describes the vertical and lateral distribution of these minerals in different sedimentary facies from bottom to top and the impact of steam on them. The bottom and second channel-dominated sand and intervening shale (S2B sand, S2 Shale, S2A sand) layers show variation in total average clay content, as well as the swelling clay (smectite, illite-smectite) and fibrous palygorskite, with a low content in the north and center (2-4.6%), a moderate content in the east (6.7-7.3%) and a high content in the south (11.2-14.4%). The Middle shale layer (MShale), is recognized as a flooding surface, observed at base of muddy interdistributory bay/lagoonal or floodplai