OQEP Digitalization Case: Automation of Real-Time Water Cut Calculation Using High Frequency Sensor Data and Well Test Data of Digital Oil Field System

Abstract

Objectives/Scope

Automate the calculation of Near Real-time Water cut (RTWC) for ESP wells using High frequency sensor data (HFSD) and well tests data (WTD) available in Digital Oil field (DOF) platform, utilizing Digital twins benefitting OQEP’s DOF and Production monitoring teams. A step change in the Digital Oil field Arena towards virtual metering, workflow integration with production operations solutions, improving DOF system performance, maintaining evergreen updated live data, integration of results for cross-domain analysis, integration with Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence models (ML/AI).

Methods, Procedures, Process

The method for real-time water-cut estimation in ESP wells leverages field data from surface and downhole sensors, well PVT data, and physics-based models. By tracking changes in parameters like Pump Discharge Pressure (PDP) and Well Head Pressure (WHP), the system calculates water-cut using standard petroleum engineering equations. Integrated into the DOF field surveillance application, it automatically performs scenario simulations and sensitivity analyses to ensure accurate results. The RTWC data is visualized within the Well Management Visualization System (WMVS), aiding engineers in decision-making and intervention planning, leading to significant time savings, optimization, and enhanced operational visibility.

Results, Observations, Conclusions

The implementation of the RTWC estimation method for ESP wells has delivered significant operational improvements for OQEP. Key results include a 30% time saving for engineers in tracking accurate RTWC, resulting in more efficient well management. Additionally, the method has contributed to a 5% improvement in field factor calculations and a 10-20% reduction in well-test OPEX for ESP wells, indicating cost savings and operational efficiencies. Furthermore, the system has enabled 100% digital transparency into ESP operations, enhancing real-time monitoring and decision-making. The water-cut readings generated by the system, when coupled with the WMVS, have been instrumental in helping engineers evaluate phase-wise production, correct misleading well test measurements, and track water production in real-time. These capabilities provide engineers with valuable insights to make informed decisions on well interventions and optimizations. From an operational standpoint, this method has proven effective despite being a relatively small module within the broader well optimization process. Its integration with AI-based predictive models is expected to strengthen the ability to detect potential well failures early, improving planning and minimizing disruptions. Overall, the method’s automation and integration with existing systems have significantly enhanced field productivity and decision-making capabilities, marking a critical milestone for OQEP’s digital oil field strategy.

Novel/Additive Information

Accurate water-cut estimation is crucial for optimizing ESP well performance, as it helps differentiate between oil and water phases in production. This real-time calculation allows engineers to detect production anomalies early, adjust operational parameters, and enhance well efficiency, ultimately improving reservoir management and reducing operational costs.