Publications

In very mature waterflood operations, higher remaining oil potential usually exists in zones with low quality sands. Acidizing and fracturing are common stimulation jobs in order to optimize production from these lower permeability sands, requiring higher investment, but the results are still unpredictable.Lower productivity/permeability clastic reservoirs like those found in Minas Field can be optimized by implementing proper production completion strategy instead of stimulation jobs. A properly designed completion strategy can yield good oil production, minimizing cost and risk.A better designed commingle completion in lower permeability sands increases the chance of success rate and oil gained. This strategy consists of two key factors: Productivity index (PI) ratio and pump off condition. Productivity index (PI) ratio between the sands is a key factor and must be considered during early stage of pump design and completion scenario. A PI ratio lower than 5 is preferred. Pump off condition is also critical to make sure no cross flow occurs between sands.2010 field application and trial at 4 producer wells showed very strong oil gained and no job failures-- 100% success rate. This strategy increased oil production and reduced water production at all 4 observed wells. Optimum commingled completion in lower quality layered sand has proven to be an effective strategy to improve oil gain and reduce water production.