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Effect of flow time duration on buildup pattern for reservoirs with heterogeneous properties

Conference · · Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5325374

The identification of a buildup pattern with that characteristic of the drawdown can lead to a complete misinterpretation of the nature of a reservoir. Such is the case for a reservoir with heterogeneous properties whenever the flow time before the well is shutin is too small to allow a complete development of the characteristic pressure drawdown pattern. For a heterogeneous reservoir, the shape of a buildup curve is strongly dependent on the length of the preceding flow period. Therefore, in exploration well testing where the flow period is usually short, modification of the pressure buildup pattern caused by insufficient flow time can lead to an erroneous interpretation of the well behavior. Buildup pattern, as a function of flow time, is discussed here for various types of ideal heterogeneities such as linear reservoir discontinuities, natural fractures, vertical stratification, pressure support and lateral permeability loss. A relationship is provided for the dimensionless flow time required to produce a certain buildup pattern. The effect of buildup pattern alterations on the quantitative assessment of reservoir parameters is determined as well.

Research Organization:
Exxon Production Research Co.
OSTI ID:
5325374
Report Number(s):
CONF-820927-
Journal Information:
Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States), Journal Name: Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States) Vol. SPE11140; ISSN SEAPA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English