Application of a Reservoir Simulator Interfaced With a Surface Facility Network: A Case History

Abstract

Summary Management requires dependable information upon which to base decisions regarding large investments. The system discussed in this paper proves to be a viable tool for effectively managing reservoir development and provides several alternatives upon which management could base such decisions. A three-dimensional (3D), three-phase reservoir simulator is interfaced with a surface facility network simulator. The results are used in determining an integrated field development and operating plan for producing an onshore-offshore oil reservoir at a specified rate. Various aspects of alternative development and facility installation scenarios are investigated with the interfaced system. The requirements and sizing of major surface facilities and a drilling and workover program are determined over a 25-year study period. The most efficient development plan is one that combines cost-effective drilling and facilities scheduling while at the same time providing maximum operating flexibility and balanced reservoir development. This technique has been applied to the future development planning of existing fields but is equally applicable to planning the development of new fields in any environment by altering the producing rules controls and reservoir and network models to account for the appropriate circumstances.