Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology Facilitates Enhanced Acid Stimulation Coverage for Increased Oil Recovery Factor in Deepwater Multi-Zone Intelligent Well

Abstract

Targeted acid stimulation of high productivity reservoirs through intelligent well systems have historically been constrained due to limited tubing hanger penetrations and by the intelligent well systems themselves, considering available configuration flow area and zonal flow control. Besides the carbonate reservoirs being heterogeneous by nature, the long extension of the producing intervals makes the task of distributing acid treatment even more challenging. This paper will focus on the integration of remotely operated sliding sleeves into deep-water three-zone intelligent wells to enhance stimulation coverage without compromising future production control.

Geological analysis was conducted to assess the benefits of increased treatment coverage during acid stimulation. The RFID stimulation sleeves were placed in the production zone of the completion alongside the ICV (Interval Control Valve). The sleeves were run closed and once the completion was set and tested and ready for acid stimulation A pressure pulse signature was applied to activate the electronic trigger and open the sleeve. The stimulation was applied through both the RFID sleeve and ICV. After treatment the RFID sleeve was closed by pumping RFID tags into the well and a successful pressure test confirmed valve closure and well integrity.

The inclusion of a multi-cycle remotely operated electronic sliding sleeve into the intelligent well design increased the available acid injection area, in combination with the ICV's and without using any additional tubing hanger penetrations, to enhance overall production across the well campaign to increase the Oil Recovery Factor (ORF). Additionally, the operational flexibility; using RFID tags, remote pressure cycles, and timers allowed the operator to selectively target and treat zones during acid stimulation, whilst having on-demand contingency options to significantly reduce the likelihood and risk of intervention. Whilst this campaign utilized one RFID sliding sleeve per well, there are no limitations to the number of sleeves that can placed in any well.

This technology milestone demonstrates the possibility to significantly expand the treatment coverage available to the reservoir during acid stimulation. For example, multiple RFID sleeves could be placed into each zone that contains one ICV; the RFID sleeves would be used for acid stimulation and the ICV for production control, which ultimately delivers operational flexibility, increased oil recovery and therefore value. Furthermore, after the stimulation has been performed, the RFID valve could act as a mechanical contingency for the ICV during well production.