Abstract

The robust construction, ease of operation and maintenance of Sucker Rod Pump (SRP) is a stand-alone artificial lift method owning mostly to its simplicity. SRP are widely used positive displacement pump in land and offshore oilfield applications for lifting of heavy, medium or light oil with gas and water. In this paper, one such implementation of SRP is discussed which are simulated for rigless installation with insert anchor in existing failed artificial lift system. The failure of existing artificial lift system such as PCP, ESP or even SRP itself. Causes loss of cumulative production of the asset and thus economic disadvantage. The scheduling of rig to carry replacement based on oil priority further effects this interval which are generally overlooked. In this paper, implementation of SRP in such existing failed artificial lift system is discussed, carried rigless using insert anchor pump. Thus continuation of maintenance of asset production even after failure of artificial lift s

Abstract

In specific situations such as patient with severely dilated left ventricle (LV) and spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) who suffered an ischemic stroke previously may be an acceptable indication for oral anticoagulation to prevent further TE events. © 2021 The Authors. Clinical Case Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Abstract

The pilot Chemical EOR project in Sabriyah Field, Kuwait is implemented applying a five-spot pattern: four injectors and one producer. The results of base-line logging campaign performed in EOR area with the purpose of appraising the current state of the reservoir before EOR implementation have been addressed earlier in [1]. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the results and value of reservoir-oriented noise and temperature logging campaign carried out during the water injection stage, before chemical injection. To investigate the reservoir and well parameters in EOR area, an integrated logging suite consisting of High Precision Temperature (HPT) and Spectral Noise Logging (SNL) tools was run. High-definition broadband SNL tool with a large scanning radius successfully located the active flow units including low-rate ones and differentiated between reservoir flows, behind-casing channelling and leaks in well completion components, even behind multiple barriers. HPT data were

Abstract

The Middle Minagish (Minagish Oolite) of Lower Cretaceous (Valanginian age) is one of the main oil contributor from main Burgan structures in Southeast Kuwait (SEK). Recently drilled Jurassic wells have shown extensive HC shows within Minagish section. These indications are nearly 1000 feet below the known OWC of Burgan field. It suggests a strati-structural exploration play. The heterogeneity of the Minagish Formation is the main challenge for identifying new exploration plays. This paper demonstrates the use of state-of-art Spectral Decomposition, along with other seismic attributes, to continue exploration beyond the known oil boundary. Spectral Decomposition has been applied in 1) mapping different-scale gross depositional environments of the Minagish Formation by using a suite of spectral decomposed 10-50Hz amplitude/phase volumes, 2) interpreting strike-slip faults and evaluating the validation of fault closures through horizon-based slices of discrete frequency amplitude cubes;

Abstract

[No abstract available]

Abstract

Cardiac conduction disorder may have a wide range of aetiology and can manifest with symptomatic bradycardia and syncope. Celiac disease is a malabsorptive long-term autoimmune disorder where the small intestine is the primarily affected organ due to gluten intolerance in genetically predisposed individuals. The associations between celiac disease and cardiac pathology are uncommon. We report a case of a 50-year-old woman with a known case of celiac disease who presented with a symptomatic cardiac conduction abnormality that improved with a gluten-free diet. © EFIM 2023 - European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine.

Abstract

In the event of mud complete loss circulation while drilling through fractured Dolomite formation, the economical drilling fluids technique was to continue drilling with lime treated water and pump mud cap in the annuals, although this technique overcomes the need and cost of mixing drilling fluids on fly, but it caused several problems that led to stuck pipe and lose the directional tool / BHA in the hole. The manuscript describes a study performed to analyse the root cause of stuck pipe incident and presents a detailed success case of utilizing customized non-damaging drilling fluids. While drilling in well BG-1832 located in southeast Kuwait field through fractured Dolomite formation (Shuaiba) a complete lost circulation has been encountered and the decision made to continue drilling with water in inclination of 90 degree. Once total losses occurred the variations between ECD and ESD was very low indicating that annular friction losses below the loss circulation zone was minimal. Th

Abstract

Kuwait's oil and gas reservoirs shape one of the largest reservoir portfolios worldwide, meriting savvy and forward-looking reservoir management practices and workflows to maintain the country as a reliable supplier for many decades to come. Reservoir management can be defined as a body of principles, processes, and practices that collectively governs the way a field is managed. It is focused on the subsurface, but not exclusively. Reservoir management is a stewardship process that significantly impacts production performance, bookable reserves, estimated ultimate recovery (EUR), and capital expenditures (CapEx). Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has set out to optimize and standardize its reservoir management practices at a corporate level (Capello et al. 2016). This journey is still in progress, and has several strategic objectives: a) standardize reservoir management practices across KOC assets; b) ensure the optimization of recovery factors and life of fields strategies for each reservoir e

Abstract

Sound reservoir management practice aims to maximize economic recovery while smartly reducing capital investments and operational costs, optimizing the utilization of technology and talent. Nevertheless, such a conceptual approach, seemingly linear and focused, is challenging in large corporations, for the numerous reservoirs that are produced at different stages of maturity, by a variety of teams. This is the case of Kuwait Oil Company, the main oil operator of the upstream sector in the State of Kuwait. After more than 67 years of commercial oil production, the company has evolved into a large and complex organization composed by assets and support groups. Incrementally, the need of standard practices of Reservoir Management (RM) is evident, to maximize the optimization efforts at corporate scale. As an unprecedented initiative, Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) engaged in a journey of standardization of its RM practices, to manage with top standards its more than 142 oil and gas fields on th

Abstract

In North Kuwait, formation evaluation in horizontal/highly deviated wells typically requires the use of Logging While Drilling (LWD) technology. In this paper, we will discuss how for the first time in Kuwait a state-of-the-art wireline open hole tractor has been successfully used to convey an advanced wireline pressure measurement in a horizontal well. Two wells will be discussed in this paper, the first was a short radius horizontal side track in the tight carbonate formation while the second is highly deviated well across sand/shale layers. Traditionally in horizontal wells, the pressure measurement is either run on drill pipe or LWD. Moreover, the formation tightness posed another challenge, as stabilized formation pressures can be difficult to achieve. To address the challenge of formation tightness and save rig time, a fast wireline pretest measurement tool allowing dynamic control of the pretest system would be conveyed on wireline using Open Hole tractor. A job simulation was c

Abstract

Simulating the mechanical response of PDC drill bits contains a lot of uncertainties. Rock and fluid properties are generally poorly known, complex interactions occur downhole and physical models can hardly capture the full complexity of downhole phenomena. This paper presents a statistical approach that improves the reliability of the PDC bit design optimization process by ensuring that the expected directional behavior of the drill bit is robust over a well-defined range of drilling parameters. It is first examined how uncertainty propagates through an accurate bit/rock interaction model which simulates numerically the interaction between a given PDC drill bit geometry and a given rock formation, both represented as 3D meshed surfaces. Series of simulations have been launched with simulation parameters defined as probability density functions. The focus has been set on directional drilling simulations where the drill bit is subjected to significant variations in contact loads on gage

Abstract

Drilled solid is a continuous contaminant in drilling mud during drilling operation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the statistical correlation of drilled solid concentration on mud rheology. A Spearman's correlation was used to determine the relationship between 31 mud rheology data and the drilled solid concentration data from North Kuwait Field. Four rheological models were used to compare the rheological behaviour of the drilled solid-laden drilling fluid which were Bingham Plastic, Power Law, Herschel-Bulkley and Robertson-Stiff Model. Results showed that a positive monotonic relationship was observed between all drilled solid concentration and mud rheology parameters. An excessive relationship was observed between drilled solid concentration and mud density with a Spearman coefficient (ρ) of 0.942. Other mud rheology parameters such as plastic viscosity, yield point and gel strength show a significant (high) relationship with a spearman coefficient (ρ) in between 0.833

Abstract

Foam has been extensively investigated as a method to improve the mobility control of non-condensable gases in the EOR context. Recently, there has been renewed interest in foam applied to steam injections. However, steam is a condensable gas and thus steam-foam requires special analyses that differ from classical foam assessments. This work presents the coreflood results of a steam-foam process evaluation for the Ratqa Lower Fars (RQLF) heavy oil reservoir in Kuwait. Using specifically designed foaming surfactants, coreflood tests in the absence and presence of heavy crude oil are performed in native sandpack cores under RQLF reservoir conditions (220°C; 360 psi). In order to limit steam condensation due to the build-up of the foam pressure, steam has been supplemented with a small amount of non-condensable gas (nitrogen, about 1 - 5 mol.%). Interstitial velocity was decreased from 40 ft/day down to 1 ft/day (CWE). Phase equilibria at the core inlet were estimated based on thermodynam

Abstract

Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), one of the most important National Oil Companies (NOC) in the world, is growing in every sense, as the State of Kuwait is seeking to boost its oil production capacity by 2040, in line with the new approved strategy of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation. This growth into the future entails a shift from primary extraction to more complex settings, where new fields are produced simultaneously with others submitted to water flooding, EOR and Steam Injection, in what constitutes one of the biggest challenges ever faced by the company, due to the short timelines involved. The company has a variety of technological partners that include International Oil Companies (IOC), to further support the 2040 strategy of the corporation. This strategic growth vision, not exempted of an increasing breath of challenges, is accompanied by a focused effort in building new technical capabilities in the personnel, and in gradually transforming the way the training plans shape the professio

Abstract

The Kuwaiti oil fire during the first Gulf War resulted in the formation of approximately 300 “oil lakes” of varying sizes that covered over 110 km2 of the desert land. This threatens the fragile desert ecosystems and human health. Following the award of over US$2 billion to the State of Kuwait by the United Nations, large-scale remediation of the oil-contaminated soils has now been on the agenda. However, how to implement the remediation program in a cost-effective way represents a major challenge. In this study, cost-effective remediation strategies were developed based on field and laboratory investigations in a typical oil lake area. Overall, most of the lighter petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs) were lost due to evaporation. Long-chain aliphatic PHCs dominated the PHCs in the investigated oil lake area. This has implications for developing remediation strategies. Toxicity assessment results showed that the majority of soils pose a low environmental risk with a hazard index <1. Therefor

Abstract

The Greater Burgan Field, operated by Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), is the largest clastic and overall the second largest oilfield in the world. First discovered in 1938, with production from 1946, production to date has relied on primary recovery methods. In recent years secondary and enhanced recovery techniques have been investigated with water flood now at an advanced state of implementation. The first such water flood project is in the Upper Cretaceous (Cenomanian) Wara Formation, one of the main producing reservoirs within the Greater Burgan complex where production has been accompanied by falling reservoir pressure. The Wara Formation comprises multiple sandstone units deposited in a fluvial-tidal coastal system. The reservoir exhibits a considerable degree of permeability heterogeneity, which poses significant challenges to the implementation of waterflood. The highly complex nature of the reservoir necessitate for implementation of suitable strategies from an early stage of waterf

Abstract

Umm Gudair Minagish Oolite is a heterogeneous carbonate reservoir with random intermittent micritic units forming low permeability barriers to fluid flow. The facies, permeability variations and barriers have limited lateral extension. Therefore, different strategies need to be designed to implement accelerated fit-for-purpose polymer injectivity pilots without compromising the proper assessment of key parameters such as polymer injectivity, polymer adsorption, resistance factor, in-situ rheological properties, volumetric sweep efficiency, incremental oil gains, and polymer breakthrough. The field is divided into geological sub-regions based on reservoir scale heterogeneities by integrating static and dynamic data. The pilot location for each region is selected such that it shows minimal variations in reservoir properties in terms of facies, permeability, and extension of barriers. Simulation results were analyzed for each considered pilot area based on injectivity, pilot duration, oil

Abstract

ESP is a major mode of artificial lift in Kuwait Oil Company (KOC). It is our continuous endeavor to enhance and optimize production, with regard to our diverse reservoir conditions and operational constraints. Objective of the paper, is to apprise our various challenges for ESP production. Study also covers details of key ESP technology pilots, which are implemented. Present study is divided into three parts. Initially, assessment of our multi-faceted challenges, for ESP production, in terms of, high GOR, asphaltenic crude, viscous crude, high water cut, operating costs, etc., are, explained. Secondly, evaluation of relevant ESP systems, to facilitate mitigation of these challenges, with an aim to enhance production, at reduced operating costs, is elucidated. Study is based on actual field data. Subsequently, broad details of significant ESP technology pilots, which are implemented, till now, are illustrated, with emphasis on sharing of pilot results. Studies are carried out to check

Abstract

The lower Cretaceous reservoirs are very good producers in various structures of Kuwait. Zubair sands and Minagish oolites are prominent among them. The Ratawi Formation which is also of lower Cretaceous consists of Ratawi Limestone Member in its lower section and Ratawi Shale Member above it. The reservoirs in both have been successfully drilled in many parts of Kuwait. In Sudaira-Abdali area a few wells have produced oil from the sands of the Ratawi Shale Member. These sands are discrete, but have good porosity. Though they have the hydrocarbon potential additional efforts in terms of understanding their nature of deposition, entrapment, play, etc., are required to explore them further. By mapping these sands in acoustic impedance volume and using spectral decomposition, it is inferred that they are deposited by migratory and vertically stacked channels in Sudaira - Abdali area of Kuwait. The channel course is apparently from the north to south instead of the current understanding of

Abstract

Infill drilling is a proved strategy to improve hydrocarbon recovery from reservoirs to increase production and maximize field value. Infill drilling projects address the following questions: 1) Where should the wells be drilled? 2) What should be their optimum trajectories? 3) What are the realistic ranges of incremental production of the infill wells? Answering these questions is important yet challenging as it requires the evaluation of multiple scenarios which is laborious and time intensive. This study presents an integrated workflow that allows the optimization of drilling locations using an automated approach that comprises cutting-edge optimization algorithms coupled to reservoir simulation. This workflow concurrently evaluates multiple scenarios until they are narrowed down to an optimum range according to pre-set objectives and honoring pre-established well design constraints. The simultaneous nature of the workflow makes it possible to differentiate between acceleration and

Abstract

The strata exposed at Jal Az-Zor escarpment in northern Kuwait represent one of the best outcrops in the country, extending over 60 km in length with a cliff-face of around 36 m. The age assignment of these rock units was mostly done during the 1920s to 1960s and was largely based on taxonomy grouping of an oyster-rich bed present at the base of Jal Az-Zor correlated to what appeared to be a similar layer that belongs to the Lower Fars Formation in Iran. In the subsurface, the results of biostratigraphic analysis using different taxonomic groups have suggested ages that position this exposed lithological unit in the range of late Miocene to Pliocene (11.63–2.58 Ma). Due to the lack of radiometric numerical data, the strontium isotope ratio (87Sr/86Sr) age-dating method was applied on carefully selected surface and subsurface samples including an oyster shell, beds with abundant fossils, and calcite cemented specimens. Petrographic, XRD, and SEM-EDX analyses were utilized to determine t

Abstract

Five structural trends are recognized in Kuwait: (1) Three sub-parallel anticlinal trends (005°-015°) occur on the west flank of the Kuwait Arch and trap oil in Lower Cretaceous and Jurassic strata. (2) North-south trending structures, including the Kuwait Arch, are probably founded on basement horsts. These were reactivated from Late Jurassic to post-Turonian time and contain the largest oil pools in Kuwait (e.g. Greater Burgan) in Middle Cretaceous, Lower Cretaceous and Upper Jurassic strata. (3) A northwest trend (320°-340°) in north and west Kuwait reflects the structural grain of the underlying Arabian Shelf and while generally dry in Middle Cretaceous strata has proven oil in Lower Cretaceous and Jurassic strata. (4) East-northeast (030°-050°) anticlines are present mid-flank the Kuwait Arch to the west and north. They contain oil in Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous strata, and Middle Cretaceous strata where north-south trends are overprinted. They may be related to northeast trendi

Abstract

Numerous core-flooding experiments have shown that low-salinity water flooding (LSWF) could improve oil recovery in sandstone reservoirs. However, LSWF recovery effects remain highly contentious primarily because of the absence of crucial boundary conditions (boundary conditions are defined throughout the paper as the initial and final, contact angle and interfacial tension values). The objective of this paper is to conduct a parametric study using statistical analysis and simulation to measure the sensitivities of LSWF recovery effects in sandstone reservoirs. The summary of 411 core-flooding experiments discussed in this paper highlights the extent and consistency in reporting boundary conditions, which has two implications for statistical analysis: (1) the statistical correlations of the residual oil saturation to chlorite (0.7891) are strong, whereas the statistical correlations of the residual oil saturation to kaolinite (0.4399) contents, as well as to the wettability index (0.38

Abstract

This paper concerns primarily with the imaging of sub-basalt strata and its worlwide prospectivity. It deals with deep seated features of seismic sections, the seismic resolution of syn-rift sub-salt and sub-basalt layers. These are performed mainly by time and depth migrated interpretation of seismic in the context of basin formation, source rock maturation, migration and entrapment, and by integrating diverse geophysical data. © 2010, European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers.

Abstract

Salt diapirs formed in the Arabian basins are genetically related to Ara salt deposits of Infracambrian Hormuz Group. In Kuwait, diapiric salt bodies are not discernable in seismic. Instead, possibility of salt pillow development at greater depth exists, as is evident from a north Kuwait well. Episodic growth of salt pillows and their spatial movement from deeper to shallower depth through fault conduits manifest structural reliefs in the overlying strata The structures with large relief may be 'visible' in the conventional structure maps of the overlying formations whereas subtle ones may appear in the horizon based seismic attributes in the form of anomalies. In this context, some of the circular anomalies mapped in time and other seismic attributes within Triassic and upper Paleozoic sequences in Umm Gudair area, south Kuwait, are analyzed. Lensoidal seismic signatures in association with faults imaged much below these features are attributed to salt pillows. Discrete salt pillows m

Abstract

Results from the recently drilled exploratory wells in Kuwait indicate that interconnected natural fractures are essential for successful exploration of argillaceous carbonate reservoirs of early Cretaceous Makhul Formation. Light oil trapped in these reservoirs can be produced if wells intersect natural fractures. As fractures are sub-seismic features, a robust workflow has been adopted to enhance the resolution and dynamic range of the fault edges present in the poststack seismic data. Voxel based mapping of the spatially oriented fault edges produces a high resolution discontinuity attribute cube in this workflow. 3D analysis of this volume helps to understand exploration results and select new well locations in the study area. The inference can also lead to hydrocarbon discoveries in low porosity, low permeability carbonate reservoirs in other areas. © 2011 Society of Exploration Geophysicists.

Abstract

Summary: The exploration focus in recent times has shifted to more challenging areas that are earlier considered to be of moderate to low interest. Such areas are generally characterized by poor reservoir facies or absence of suitable traps for a commercial success. But thanks to the advent of new state of art technology and ever increasing global demand for new hydrocarbon discoveries, the focus on such areas take a forward step with creative and innovative approach. As a result of this persistence effort, several such areas are now brought under exploration target that has added new potential discoveries in world oil map. Abdali and its adjacent area in the northern most part of Kuwait (normally termed as NNK- North of North Kuwait) fall under such category for Jurassic interest. Adjacent to Abdali, most areas such as Raudhatain, NW Raudhatain, Sabriyah, Umm-Neqa are established with very well defined four-way closures associated with intense faulting and fracturing. Owing to this, t

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to show the integrated subsurface reservoir models created for high challengeable HPHT North Kuwait Jurassic (NKJ) Gas Asset. The successful story focuses on the study and modelling achievements that involved applying the appropriate method of upscaling the fine grid static model, calibrating & initializing, history matching with field observation data and finally performing a long-term production forecast. The IPSM (Integrated Production System Modelling) tool has been used to integrate all (six) fields to fill planned facilities and optimize each field forecast to get facilities production target The new history matched models and base forecast scenarios built by an integrated multi-disciplinary subsurface team of Schlumberger, Shell and KOC staff members. KOC is the focal point and the owner of these models and the asset. The new Middle Marrat static model is supported as a tool for dynamic simulation, volumetric calculation and other static model appl

Abstract

The first ever CO2 foam fracturing new technology in Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) history was executed flawlessly in late 2021. Three treatments were executed. Co2 Foam Fracturing proved its significant added value of improving productivity in deep depleted tight carbonate Jurassic reservoirs, enhance flow back, reduce water consumption and carbon emission, and enable early production plus improving operation efficiency and cost saving. The stimulation operation has proven to be a huge success for all multidisciplinary teams involved as preliminary results showed over 50-70% production increase compared to offset wells. The main challenges of acid fracturing stimulation in depleted reservoirs are the need for extended formation cleanup to flow back the injected fluids via prolonging Nitrogen lift that add higher operational costs and intervention operations. Therefore, energetic high foam efficiency frac fluid becomes essential to assist flowback and retrieve pumped frac fluids from reserv

Abstract

Maximizing oil recovery is a very challenging assignment to oilfield operators worldwide. This requires additional and continuous adoption of new technologies and best practices. Water flooding is one of the most reliable recovery technique and been used for many years around the world to pressure support to the reservoir and minimize the bypassed oil in depleted reservoirs with no aquifer support. This paper is presenting a case of well that was drilled and completed as a dumpflood well to provide pressure support to an oil-bearing zone that contributes most of the field's production. Dumping rates have showed poor performance due to near wellbore damage since completion. Many conventional stimulation trials were carried out with no sustained success. The well was selected for an advanced acid stimulation technique to improve the dumping rate by using the concept of Oscillating Fluid Injection. This process achieves deeper treatment penetration and more uniform fluid distribution. Roo

Abstract

Drilling the 16-in. section in Umm Gudair field in western Kuwait faces a lot of challenges while drilling. Challenges include drilling through severe loss conditions, destabilized shale, and deteriorating hole conditions. These conditions can result in hole collapse or lost in hole of the drill string that requires sidetracking. The objective of project presented in this paper was to develop an engineered solution to drill through the difficult zones, lessen nonproductive time, and reduce the total well cost. The solution proposed was to use casing-while-drilling technology with a drillable bit and drill through the fractured dolomitic limestone and sandstone formation while simultaneously setting casing. The drillable casing-while-drilling bit was specifically designed and engineered to conform to the formations in the field. The drillable casing-while-drilling bit is manufactured with a material that can be drilled out with either conventional roller cone or fixed cutter bits. A pla

Abstract

Jurassic Gas Field Development Group (GFDJ) of Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) completed the first ever CO2 foamed acid frac pilot campaign in three Jurassic sour HTHP wells. This innovative technology was utilized first time ever in the KOC history safely and effectively with exemplary well performances. GFDJ had been pursuing the CO2-foamed acid fracturing technology since 2019 with the objective of improving the stimulation and hydraulic fracturing efficiency in the Jurassic Middle Marrat formation. CO2-foamed acid fracs have several advantages over other stimulation techniques: • CO2 is a miscible and non-damaging fluid blends in water and also mixes with hydrocarbons. • Pumped as a liquid and slightly heavier than water, leading to lower treating pressures due to heavier hydrostatic head. • Effective in treating lower-pressured/partially-depleted good KH carbonate reservoirs. • Reduces water-based gels and overall frac-load volume by the percentage of CO2 pumped in the frac fluid system

Abstract

The 22 in. vertical section in south-west Kuwait has traditionally been drilled with tungsten carbide insert (TCI) drill bits on rotary assemblies through limestones, dolomites and anhydrites, and commonly suffer severe or total losses before kickoff point (KOP) is reached. The losses and relatively slow rate of penetration (ROP) that is achieved with TCI drill bits results in high drilling fluid costs and extended periods spent waiting for water in order to build more mud. The need to reduce flow rates to lower effective circulating density (ECD) renders drilling with a polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit on a positive displacement motor (PDM) unrealistic as a method of achieving a higher ROP, and so a Hybrid Drill Bit solution on a rotary assembly was viewed as a means of reducing drilling time through enhanced ROP. A 22 in. Hybrid Drill Bit was selected to drill the vertical section to KOP on a rotary assembly. The Hybrid Drill Bit drills much faster than a TCI bit but does no

Abstract

In Kuwait's largest reservoir, the Burgan Field, exploration wells have large potential for drilling optimization and savings; specifically a 22 inch hole, that is drilled conventionally using multiple roller cone bits in multiple trips through challenging inter-bedded formations. Hybrid drill bit technology, roller cone combined with Polycrystalline Diamond Compact, was introduced in search for an economically viable solution to deliver wells faster and achieve yearly operator targets. This paper analyzes the breakthrough drilling performance achieved by a 22 inch hybrid bit in comparison to conventional roller cones offsets and provides conclusions on economic viability. The main challenges drilling the 22 inch section are drill bit durability and drilling vibrations through 2,000 ft. of inter-bedded limestone, shale and sandstone. In addition to curing fluid losses in certain porous formation layers that negatively affect Rate Of Penetration (ROP). Typically two roller cone bits are

Abstract

KOC has been producing oil using dual completions from different pressure regime zones from the same well and South East Kuwait field has many such dual completions wells which are currently being converted from natural flow completion to artificial lift completions. In one of such dual completion naturally producing well, first time in world an artificial lift system - Anchor Pump was installed in Short String (SS) through rigless intervention. Thus project well had un conventional dual completion in the field first of its kind i.e. Sucker Rod Pump (SRP) installed in short string and natural producer through Long String(LS). The well produced for some time through both strings and an intervention by workover rig was required due to high water cut and stuck anchor pump in short string. The paper describes the challenges and initiatives and learnings for safe execution of unconventional dual completion well workover. Due to combination of natural flow and SRP artificial lift completion,

Abstract

In 2012 KOC commenced the largest high channel count survey world-wide utilizing more than 200,000 channels; the first shot was acquired on June 26th 2012 three weeks ahead of plan. Despite all the challenges and obstacles encountered throughout the project, the production exceeded the targets whilst maintaining safe operation and achieving the ultimate goal of providing the highest data quality ahead of schedule.

Abstract

Conventionally, the Cretaceous shale in North Kuwait is drilled at a high angle with an invert emulsion-based drilling fluid. Environmental and operational considerations required the development of a water-based system capable of closing the performance gap between invert-based and water-based drilling fluids. A customized high performance water-based mud (HPWBM) was used successfully where previous attempts with alternative water-based mud (WBM) had experienced significant challenges. Key well challenges included wellbore instability with caving shale and the potential for differential sticking and pack-off. A HPWBM enhanced with an innovative sealing polymer was customized to maintain optimal drilling performance by minimizing shale erosion in these highly dispersible clays, while also decreasing pore pressure transmission via the micronized sealing polymer. These clays, having moderate reactivity, are prone to dispersion when there is communication between water or water-ba

Abstract

This paper discusses the successful application of a pillar fracturing technique in a water injection well wherein a major operator previously experienced poor injectivity within the target zone. The aim of the pillar fracturing technique was to achieve the highest possible fracture conductivity to enhance water injectivity for reservoir pressure maintenance. This technique creates infinite conductivity channels with proppant distributed within the fracture as aggregates or groups separated by clean fluid. These proppant groups function as pillars to hold the fracture open and help enable fluid flow in the open channels between proppant pillars. The conductivity of a partially open fracture with proppant pillars can be several orders of magnitude greater than that of a conventional fracture filled with proppant after closure. After a pillar style hydraulic treatment, the propping agent remains in the fracture grouped to form pillars because of the sticky resin that was applied to the p

Abstract

In a high-perm/strong-aquifer environment, comparatively low-perm/heavy-oil/solution-gas-drive reservoirs inevitably get sidelined. Flow-Channel Hydraulic Fracturing, however, with infinite conductive channels for fluid flow rather than intra-granular flow, as in conventional fracturing techniques, offers a tangible solution for increased productivity. The channels in the proppant pack are created through a patented technique that combines special pumping protocol, perforation scheme, fracturing fluid design and fiber technology. These conductive channels accelerate fracture cleanup, and achieve longer effective fracture half-lengths, thereby enhancing productivity, injectivity& recovery. In North Kuwait, 90% of wells drilled are vertical, penetrating a wide range of reservoir types consisting of high and low permeability sandstones and carbonates, with varying crude types from medium heavy to condensate. Flow-Channel Hydraulic Fracturing technology, with its infinite conductive flow-c

Abstract

As hydrocarbon reservoirs deplete and lose their natural energy to flow, artificial lift techniques become unavoidable to keep wells development plan and sustain hydrocarbon production. In several cases, Electric Submersible Pumps (ESPs) have become a reliable and important tool in today's global oilfield and inevitably the preferred artificial lift method to keep these wells alive and achieve a high hydrocarbon recovery however, since these pumps incur heavy workover rig interventions, the increased operating cost and the unwelcome disruption to the production operations often lead to an unfavorable profitability contrast for oil and gas operators With the oil and gas economics nowadays managing the operating cost and decreasing the deferred production is the key elements of sustaining a positive business across. In Kuwait, nearly 67% of the producing wells are equipped with artificial lift systems as several filed are producing from depleted or sub hydrostatic reservoirs that require

Abstract

The Middle Minagish formation is a major producing oil reservoir in West Kuwait where accurate formation evaluation is crucial. The complex carbonates of this field, coupled with a long history of production and water injection, gives a rise to the substantial variation of oil and water saturation throughout the field. These complexities necessitate a careful completion design for the optimal production. The objective of this case study is to show the success of the formation sampling and fluid identification in a multiple layer carbonate reservoir. The operation of the formation testing technology was conducted across the water zone, in challenging wellbore conditions and water-based mud. The timely, precise results aided to a better characterization of the reservoir and fluid properties. Copyright © 2020 SPWLA 61st Annual Logging Symposium. All rights reserved.

Abstract

The Mauddud carbonate, a 'Major' reservoir in Sabiriyah field, North Kuwait, is about 400 feet thick dominated by carbonates deposited in a ramp environment. The reservoir has ten sub-zones named alphabetically from top MaA to MaJ. Current drilling campaign is being executed on fast track exclusively using Non-Conventional Wells (NCW) in order to achieve production targets. The planned NCWs are located in flank areas to have optimum exploitation of flank potential. 'MaB' is target zone as water flood development of the reservoir, as a whole, calls for enhancing the production from MaB and provide the pressure support via water injection at the MAE (Bottom-up approach). The laterals planned are in the range of three to five thousand feet. Several subsurface challenges were dealt with during design and execution phases. The trajectories are planned with strike parallel azimuths to have minimum inclination changes in lateral sections. The objective is to enable trouble-free operation duri

Abstract

While drilling an 8 1/2-incli section of a north Kuwait producer well, severe mud losses were encountered. Hence, it was decided to design a light weight cement for the 7-inch liner section to avoid further losses while pumping the slurry. The main objective was to achieve a hydraulic isolation to avoid any heavy remedial intervention and potential dump flood behind the liner from the high-pressure Lower Burgan (LB) to Shuaiba. Full suite of well integrity logs were ran to properly assess whether enough hydraulic isolation was in place. To evaluate the bonding quality of the cement, two independent measurements were carried out across the 7-inch liner with the ultrasonic and sonic bond logs. A subsequent temperature survey was recorded to determine any geothermal anomaly, which could be indicative of fluid movement behind the casing. Finally, oxygen activation stations were conducted based on the cement log and temperature surveys to assure no water movement behind the casing. The ultr

Abstract

Channel sand reservoirs very rarely have layer cake geometries and are generally characterized by sand bodies/lenses with limited horizontal and vertical continuity. Significant lateral changes occur in reservoir thickness as well as reservoir properties and lenses are often stacked at different stratigraphic levels. The reservoir sands in the greater Burgan field show similar variations both structurally and stratigraphically. Navigating a wellbore in such complex channel sand reservoir requires precision geo-steering technology with two major requirements: Detecting reservoir boundaries with dip information for structural steering. Mapping multiple layers above and below the target layer for stratigraphic positioning. Detecting reservoir boundaries with information on layer dip and anisotropy can immensely help to forward plan trajectory as per formation changes and this require a good knowledge and study about the seismic data and offset wells information. 3D seismic data immensely

Abstract

In the North Kuwait (NK) Raudhatain field (RA), the Mauddud formation (MA) has been proven to have the potential for hydrocarbons for a decade due to the good petrophysics properties and reservoir thickness of 312 ft. Most producers faced significant reservoir pressure depletion due to poor reservoir support mechanism generally in the field. On the other hand, the northern area of the reservoir has poor reservoir quality, which necessitates aggressive stimulation intervention to unlock the oil potential. Thus, an innovative solution is required to overcome these challenges in this well. The application used in the well was a combination of open hole multi-stage completion and suitable acid fracturing design in 2313 ft of lateral. The open-hole Multi-Stage Fracturing (MSF) completion system consists of a toe sleeve, ball drop sleeves, and high-performance open-hole packers to isolate between different stages. The well was spaced out in average 231 ft per stage, resulting in 10 frac stag

Abstract

A one-spot pilot was successfully performed in the Sabriaya-Mauddud (SAMA) formation in Kuwait to demonstrate the feasibility of using alkaline-surfactant-polymer (ASP) injection to increase oil recovery from a giant carbonate reservoir. Two Single Well Chemical Tracer (SWCT) tests were performed on the SAMA test well (Well A) to measure the effectiveness of ASP injection in mobilizing waterflood residual oil saturation. The first SWCT test (Test #1) measured the waterflood residual oil saturation (Sorw) after a 10 PV seawater injection. This was followed by the second SWCT test (Test #2) to measure the oil saturation (Sorc) remaining after ASP chemical injection, comprised of: a 0.12 PV alkaline pre-flush; a 0.22 PV injection of ASP; a 0.68 PV injection of polymer in alkali solution; and a 1.00 PV injection of polymer. The difference in residual oil saturation from Tests #1 and #2 quantitatively determines the overall displacement efficiency of ASP injection. Tests #1 and 2 were perfo

Abstract

A one-spot EOR pilot was successfully completed to demonstrate the efficacy of a lab-optimized ASP formulation to mobilize remaining oil from a giant sandstone reservoir in Kuwait. This one-spot EOR pilot, which also referred to as a Single Well Chemical Tracer (SWCT) test, was a significant milestone in derisking ASP flooding for multi-well pilot implementation. The vertical zone of investigation for the Raudhatain Zubair (RAZU) SWCT was chosen to be a confined channel sand with relatively homogeneous and representative properties in a producer near the proposed pilot area. Two SWCT tests were performed and the difference in residual oil saturation from post water flood and post ASP injection tracer tests quantitatively determines the displacement efficiency of the ASP slug. The tracer chemicals for the tests included a hydrolyzing, partitioning tracer (ethyl acetate) and two alcohols (n-propyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol) that serve as cover tracer and material balance tracer, resp

Abstract

In the current and future scenario of increasing demand for hydrocarbons, Multi-Disciplinary Integrated Reservoir Management team is the key to achieve maximum production rates and ultimate recovery. In Raudhatain Upper Burgan reservoir production started in 1959 with initial reservoir pressure of 3850 psi. Decline in reservoir pressure with sustained rate of production indicated weak aquifer support and initiated water injection during the year 2001 with three flank injectors. Production rate was sustained at 30 to 35 MBOPD for long time and it was decided that to go the next level of production and to meet KOC's strategic production target. Various alternative pressures - production plans were scrutinized by the multi-disciplinary team consists of Geologists, Reservoir Engineers, Petrophysicists and Petroleum Engineers and identified bottlenecks, constraints and action plan to address the problems and to accelerate the production. Some of the bottlenecks to accelerate the production

Abstract

The Greater Burgan Field is located onshore southern part of Kuwait and it is the world's largest clastic field. A low-relief anticlinal dome draped over a basement horst structure defines it. The primary producing reservoirs are the Wara and Burgan of Cretaceous age. Burgan field has been developed by drilling more than 1000 wells mainly targeting Burgan reservoir. Majority of the wells were planned and drilled in the low risk/low uncertainty part of the field, where the combination of the shallow structure and good quality reservoir facies allowed drilling till date. Since the wells density has increased in the dome area and the area congested with surface facilities, biggest challenge lies in identifying locations in the flank and rising flank part of the field. As the demand for oil increases rapidly and the need to sustain production from ageing wells is necessary, more new wells needed. Placing increased number of infill wells, while maintaining the proper reservoir management is

Abstract

Multilateral technology offers multiple benefits to oil and gas operators, including lowering the field development cost by minimizing wellsite construction work and increasing reservoir contact leading to enhanced reservoir production. To gain full advantage of these complex wells, they must be stimulated properly. The operator in Kuwait drilled, cased, and cemented a six-leg, level IV multilateral well targeting two different formations, the upper and lower Tuba. This provided various production options and the flexibility of taking production from either the lower or upper laterals or even all six laterals to help mitigate the risks of drilling horizontal or directional wells. As such, multilateral technology can positively transform the economic viability of reserves in marginal fields. Exploiting the advantages of multilateral technology requires a multi-disciplinary approach to select appropriate well structure, completion design, re-entry flexibility, and production longevity. I