Experimental and Theoretical Simulation of Gravel-Pack Displacement in Extended Horizontal-Offshore Wells

Abstract

Summary This article presents the development of a computational tool to guide horizontal gravel-pack design for long horizontal offshore wells. Mechanistic model hypotheses, experimentation at a large-scale flow loop, and software development are detailed. The computer simulation results are then compared with field data collected in the Campos basin operations, offshore Brazil. A discussion on design alternatives for a long horizontal well at low fracture-gradient formations is presented. This discussion includes a sensibility analysis on screen eccentricity, open and closed blowout-preventer(BOP) configurations, and alpha (alone) vs. alpha plus beta wave displacement options.