Two-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis of well damage due to reservoir compaction, well-to-well interactions, and localization on weak layers
- Univ. of California, Berkeley, CA (United States)
- Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
- Terralog Technologies USA, Inc., Arcadia, CA (United States)
- Shell Exploration and Production Co., Houston, TX (United States)
In this paper the authors present the results of a coupled nonlinear finite element geomechanics model for reservoir compaction and well-to-well interactions for the high-porosity, low strength diatomite reservoirs of the Belridge field near Bakersfield, California. They show that well damage and failures can occur under the action of two distinct mechanisms: shear deformations induced by pore compaction, and subsidence, and shear deformations due to well-to-well interactions during production or water injection. They show such casting damage or failure can be localized to weak layers that slide or slip under shear due to subsidence. The magnitude of shear displacements and surface subsidence agree with field observations.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Lawrence Berkeley Lab., CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC04-94AL85000; AC03-76SF00098
- OSTI ID:
- 238473
- Report Number(s):
- SAND--96-1064C; CONF-960619--4; ON: DE96010331
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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