Abstract
Existing flow models aid in the identification of key variables, such as original hydrocarbons in place and the productivity index, from examining various flow regimes from production decline data. In addition, specialized plots and well configuration information can infer additional reservoir characterization such as system permeability and fracture half length. Reservoir system permeability is crucial in designing multi-stage completions in order to prevent premature stage competition. Fracture half length determination provides a basis for designing lateral spacing.
Determination of the duration of the linear flow period toggles performance prediction thus providing a performance model that can be coupled with economics to optimize number of stages in horizontal wells. This system permeability also allows fracture half length to be calculated during the linear flow period from the production data.
Studies within various reservoirs have provided a methodology for analyzing and establishing infinite acting versus boundary dominated flow patterns including single phase gas, dissolved gas drive and retrograde condensate reservoirs.
The application of this study is to demonstrate the work flow in characterizing reservoir and fracture parameters and utilize this information to optimize economic recovery.
