Multiphase flow in the wellbore poses a challenge for production engineers since characterization of prevailing flow regime determines the appropriate pressure drop calculation method. The problem is further complicated when the flowing fluid undergoes phase changes. The key objective was to develop a wellbore flow model based on sound physical principles, incorporating current hydrodynamic and thermodynamic methods.

The model developed comprises a flow pattern detection routine, hydrodynamic model, and an equation-of-state-based phase behavior package. The model was extensively tested with 30 field cases, proving to accurately predict pressure drop for single and two-phase (gas/condensate) flow giving an average absolute error of 6.3%.

Keywords:
fluid modeling, production logging, transition, sensitivity, production control, equation of state, flow rate, prediction, production monitoring, PVT measurement
Subjects:
Well & Reservoir Surveillance and Monitoring, Fluid Characterization, Production logging, Phase behavior and PVT measurements, Fluid modeling, equations of state
Copyright 2006, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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