The Role of Downhole Flow and Pressure Measurements in Reservoir Testing

Abstract

ABSTRACT In practice, a reservoir test that is successfully executed according to a specified pragmatic design will provide interpretable results satisfying the test objectives. Usually, there isanoptimal test design among several options which will minimize the cost of the test, without jeopardizing the likelihood that useful interpretations will ensue. Consequently, as numerous testing configurations have been introduced, it has become necessary to develop interpretation procedures which are as straightforward as the conventional techniques while offering a more reliable or refined answer. The use of downhole flow and pressure measurements, or even downhole shut-in devices, are cases in point. With proper design, execution and interpretation, tests which employ these configurations can provide reservoir properties that could be much more difficult to obtain by other means. One objective of this paper is to present a methodologyfor reservoir test interpretation. This defines the hierarchy and sequence for employment of all analysis techniques, and is intended to be general enough in concept to accomodate any type of test. Field examples are used to illustrate the merits of specific acquisition procedures, and also how the methodology can aid in achieving the test objectives with consistent and coherent analyses.