Abstract
Engineering a gas field that is more than 15 years old comes with its own challenges especially when there is a need to redesign production rules to meet Management objective functions based on the current need of the Company. The basic requirement is to continually Demonstrate commitment to Nigerian environmental stewardship while optimizing every other objective functions. This paper reviews the performance of a Gas field taking into cognizance the dynamics of operational needs and challenges encountered in the daily operations and provides solution.
An Integrated Production model sensitive to thermodynamic conditions was developed to interpret daily operations to Production Engineering which formed a framework to forecast future production. The model also characterizes flow in the pipe and predicts daily fluid (gas and oil) production. Additionally, the model enables investigation of Flow Assurance (hydrate formation, Pipeline Corrosion, Pipeline Erosion etc.) and integrity of subsurface safety valves to ensure uninterrupted flow. Interconversion of hydrocarbon gas to Liquid is then reviewed in the model before execution.
Results from the Integrated production model were used to investigate historical events (well trips, facilities shut in etc.) and advise on how best to prevent such emergencies. Planning with this model enables striking a balance between Condensate needs versus gas production targets given the Economics of production and funds within the Environmental design. Reoccurring Flow Assurance and Well integrity challenges were flagged to be addressed and eliminated. A total gain of about 20 MMSCFD and 1,000 BPD of condensate was achieved with options to re line network arrangement to improve results.
