The technique of using a "live annulus" for data collection analysis during frac pack sand control completions has evolved quite extensively over the past few years. Field case studies have revealed several anomalies in this data collection and analysis.

The following discussion covers more than 100 wells completed in the Gulf of Mexico using mini frac data analysis on both the workstring and "live annulus" data and their relationship to the bottomhole gauge data. The ability to incorporate this "live annulus" data has been facilitated by downhole tool development.

The use of "live annulus" data has been viewed by many as being the single most important factor in the successful interpretation of pressure analysis during frac pack operations. Certainly, the elimination of friction in trying to interpret real time data enhanced the ability to make "on-the-fly" decisions. Having a "live annulus" also may help in overcoming some of the water hammer problems in rapid closure situations. However, caution must be used in relying on "live annulus" data. A close look at this summary of data completed in the Gulf of Mexico highlights the need for this caution and questions the degree of it s use.

Keywords:
fracturing materials, upstream oil & gas, pressure transient testing, data interpretation, proppant, live annulus data interpretation, pressure transient analysis, annulus data interpretation, drillstem/well testing, drillstem testing
Subjects:
Hydraulic Fracturing, Formation Evaluation & Management, Frac and pack, Fracturing materials (fluids, proppant), Pressure transient analysis, Drillstem/well testing, Sand Control, Completion Operations
Copyright 2004, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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