Maximizing Chemical Efficiency and Reducing Environmental Footprint with Rigless, Precision-Based Capillary Injection
Authors
Ghulam Murtaza Kalwar; Ali Z Ghulam Murtaza; Hany Gamal; Ademola Lawal
Publisher
SPE - Society of Petroleum Engineers
Publication Date
September 16, 2025
Source
Middle East Oil, Gas and Geosciences Show (MEOS GEO), Manama, Bahrain, September 2025
Paper ID
SPE-227643-MS
Abstract
Chemical injection remains essential in combating downhole issues such as corrosion, scale, and liquid loading within reservoir operations. However, traditional batch injection methods often suffer from inaccurate placement, excessive chemical consumption, and high operational costs. This study presents a novel rigless capillary injection methodology enabling precise and controlled chemical delivery to target zones, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy while minimizing chemical wastage and related expenditures. The primary goal is to optimize operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact through highly targeted chemical placement.
The rigless capillary injection technique leverages an integrated approach combining samples analysis with advanced simulation-based modeling to optimize chemical dosing and accurate placement depth. The process begins with simulations to assess the precise chemical requirements and optimal depth for addressing treatment needs such as corrosion inhibition, scale control, and liquid loading mitigation. Based on these insights, the capillary string installation is tailored to ensure accurate placement within the wellbore. Additionally, a specially engineered injection valve is positioned at the production tubing intake to maintain chemical placement accuracy and prevent backflow.
Field trials of this rigless capillary injection approach have demonstrated substantial benefits, significantly improving chemical efficiency and cutting operational costs. Results show a 65% reduction in chemical usage per well, reflecting enhanced treatment accuracy and leading to substantial cost savings. Operating expenses were reduced by 52% through precise, targeted chemical delivery that eliminated the need for traditional cyclic injection cycles, which are often labor-intensive and prone to frequent adjustments. This minimized downtime, promoting stable, uninterrupted production. Moreover, the precision in chemical placement meant that less chemical volume was required, decreasing environmental impact by minimizing chemical waste and handling frequency. By directly addressing treatment points with minimal intervention, the rigless approach also reduced safety risks, limiting personnel exposure to hazardous chemicals. This analysis-driven, precision-based approach represents a significant advancement in sustainable reservoir management, aligning with industry goals for enhanced efficiency and adherence to environmental best practices.
The rigless capillary injection technology introduces a precision-based, analysis-driven approach to chemical treatment in reservoir management. The reduced chemical volumes and decreased intervention frequency underscore its sustainability impact and operational efficiency, establishing it as a transformative solution for modern reservoir management. Scalable and cost-effective, this technology maximizes treatment efficacy while supporting a shift toward more sustainable industry practices