Controlling sand production in high rate gas wells. [Mininization of sand problems with cylindical screens installed at producing layer]
After evaluating the alternatives for controlling sand in wells that produce over 50 MMcfgd, the operator of a North Sea field decided to set screens in the open hole through the producing interval. Wells are then brought on production in stages to allow the formation to expand and ''self gravel pack'' around the screen. Development of Frigg field is complete, and the production history is now five years old. Results obtained in all completed wells have been satisfactory and conform with goals that were set. These results were obtained after complete and exhaustive studies led to the selection of a simple and easy method. Based on experience acquired, the following conclusions may be drawn: Careful formation sampling is essential. For the gas sands of Frigg field, open hole completion constitutes the best solution, since perforated cased wells are not capable of producing at high rates after sand control. Penetration into the reservoir should be limited so as to maintain a safe distance from the water zone to delay water influx as much as possible, since water influx certainly will be detrimental to the efficiency of the completion method selected. Fluid used for drilling and completing the reservoir must be high quality and solids free to avoid subsequent stimulation treatments. Screens must be of prime quality and have a proper configuration. Stainless steel (316L) has been selected. Screen slots have been sized according to the 15 percentile point. Clearance between screen and wellbore should be small and centralization of the screen is essential. Careful and progressive production start-up over a period of six weeks is essential to permit expansion of the formation (limited to a minimum due to the small clearance). During production, thorough and systematic monitoring is recommended for all wells to detect possible sand flow.
- Research Organization:
- Elf Aquitaine
- OSTI ID:
- 5428352
- Journal Information:
- World Oil; (United States), Vol. 197:4
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
NATURAL GAS WELLS
MONITORING
SCREENS
WELL COMPLETION
NORTH SEA
NATURAL GAS FIELDS
SAND
CONTROL
DESIGN
NATURAL GAS
PLUGGING
PRODUCTION
WATER INFLUX
ATLANTIC OCEAN
ENERGY SOURCES
FLUIDS
FOSSIL FUELS
FUEL GAS
FUELS
GAS FUELS
GASES
GEOLOGIC DEPOSITS
MINERAL RESOURCES
NATURAL GAS DEPOSITS
RESOURCES
SEAS
SURFACE WATERS
WELLS
030300* - Natural Gas- Drilling
Production
& Processing