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Real-time Well Testing & Gas Lift Optimization
Gas lift is a key method used to enhance oil recovery from wells experiencing declining pressure by injecting gas into the production tubing. This reduces hydrostatic pressure and helps reservoir fluids reach the surface more efficiently. While highly effective, gas lift systems require precise design and continuous monitoring to ensure optimal performance. Over-injection can lead to decreased efficiency by increasing water production or bypassing oil, ultimately reducing flow rates. Real-time monitoring tools such as the HAIMO FR Multiphase Flow Meter (MPFM) are used to evaluate flow regimes and detect issues like gas lift valve failure, slugging, and production decline.
SOC Case Study – Zelten Field, Libya
In the Zelten Oil Field, operated by SOC in North Africa, a comprehensive evaluation was carried out to optimize gas lift operations across multiple wells. The project involved analyzing real-time data using AlfanOil’s FR MPFM units to assess gas injection rates and their impact on oil output. The primary goal was to fine-tune gas injection for each well to maximize oil production and minimize gas loss. These case studies demonstrate how targeted adjustments and real-time diagnostics can significantly enhance the efficiency and output of gas-lifted wells.
Case 1: X-01 Well Production Optimization
Challenges
- Over-injection at 660 MSCFPD reducing efficiency
- High water cut (52.6%) impacting liquid flow
- Unstable production rates
Solution Implementation
- Real-time monitoring using HAIMO MPFM
- Gradual gas reduction to 49 MSCFPD
- Continuous flow rate adjustments
| Parameter | Before | After | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Flow Rate (BPD) | 226.38 | 393.08 | +73% |
| Gas Consumption | 660 MSCFPD | 49 MSCFPD | -92.6% |
Case 2: X-02 Well Gas Lift Optimization
Operational Challenges
- Variable gas injection rates causing production instability
- Undefined optimal injection parameters
- Risk of gas breakthrough and formation damage
Technical Solution
- MPFM-based multi-rate testing protocol
- Precision gas lift valve adjustments
- Real-time monitoring system implementation
| Parameter | First Period | Second Period |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Production (BPD) | 68.77 | 77.07 (+12%) |
| Gas Injection (MSCFPD) | 650 | 838 |
| Monthly Revenue | $84,000 at $70/bbl | |
Case 3: Adverse Effects of High Gas Injection
Key Challenges
- Maintaining stable water cut during gas rate variations
- 5% productivity drop from over-injection
- Sand production risk from increased drawdown
Optimization Strategy
- MPFM real-time monitoring system
- Gradual gas injection reduction protocol
- Formation pressure maintenance analysis
| Period | Oil Rate (BPD) | Gas Rate (MSCFPD) | WC% |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Period | 366 | 338 | 91% |
| Second Period | 387 (+3%) | 410 | 91% |
| Third Period | 367 (-5%) | 455 | 91% |
Case 4: X-03 Well High Profit Optimization
Operational Challenges
- 12% gas injection increase causing production drop
- High operational costs from over-injection
- Suboptimal gas allocation strategy
Solution Implementation
- Gas injection rate optimization protocol
- Cost-benefit analysis framework
- Integrated production monitoring system
| Parameter | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Injection (MSCFPD) | 264.67 | 295.95 (+12%) |
| Oil Production (BPD) | 151 | 140 (-7%) |
| Monthly Savings | $37,917 | |
Case 5: X-04 Multi-Rate Test
Field Challenges
- Maintaining 81-82% water cut during optimization
- High gas consumption (487.69 MSCFPD)
- Economic viability assessment
Technical Solution
- Multi-rate test analysis
- Gas allocation optimization
- Real-time economic modeling
| Parameter | First Period | Second Period |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Production (BPD) | 196 | 235 (+20%) |
| Gas Consumption | 268.7 MSCFPD | 487.69 MSCFPD |
| Net Monthly Profit | $46,110 | |
Case 6: X-05 Multi-Rate Test Analysis
Operational Challenges
- Low oil flow rate (253.56 BOPD)
- High gas injection requirements
- Economic optimization pressure
Optimization Strategy
- Gas injection rate reduction protocol
- Production performance modeling
- Real-time financial impact analysis
| Time Period | Oil Rate (BPD) | Gas Rate (MSCFPD) | Revenue/Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11:00-17:00 | 253.56 | 2463.17 | $467,438 |
| 18:15-4:00 | 435.30 (+71.6%) | 960.05 (-61%) | $802,476 |
Financial Impact
| Metric | Daily | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Revenue | $11,178 | $335,327 |
| Gas Cost Savings | $4,960 | $148,860 |