Abstract
Downhole fluid samples enable better quantification of condensate-to-gas ratios that are required for effective reservoir estimation and forecasting. Quality of samples directly affect the measured properties, i.e., fluid compressibility and viscosity, that provide the supplemental information necessary for planning prospective wells through improved understanding of the reservoir.
An industry-leading, logging-while-drilling (LWD) fluid analysis and sampling tool was successfully deployed on 21 jobs with 46 runs to date, and completed 400 pressure tests with 109 samples recovered worldwide in shelf and deepwater projects. This paper highlights a new systems application for this technology to acquire single-phase fluid samples for a major operator in Trinidad. The acquired data was used for early investigation of reservoir connectivity.
The technology was introduced to the oil and gas industry in 2011. High sample quality, testing without sticking, and sample acquisition in complex well geometries and designs differentiates this technology for fluid analysis and sampling from existing wireline alternatives. Benefits of the LWD method include improved cleanup time due to reduced invasion, reduced overall sample acquisition costs, and reduced risk of stuck pipe. This method enables sampling in extended-reach wells and enables accurate fluid identification of oil, gas or water.
This paper describes the learning and the innovative systems methodology employed to successfully attain information pertinent to evaluating and understanding reservoirs.