Comprehensive approach for assessing, managing, and Monitoring Asphaltene Deposition and inhibitor utilization in oil wells

Farshad Jafari, Mohammad Ali Karambeigi, Shahab Hejri, Riyaz Kharrat

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

This study addresses the challenges of managing asphaltene precipitation in oil well production, aiming to establish a rapid computational approach for production management based on individual well productivity. The methodology involves modeling the impact of inhibitors on tubing diameter and incorporating well and reservoir performance. Validation using real-world data reveals optimal production conditions related to Asphaltene Onset Pressure (AOP) and Bubble Point Pressure (Pb) in relation to inhibitor location. The study emphasizes the importance of positioning AOP above the perforation interval for operable conditions and observes the impact of asphaltene deposition on wellhead pressure. To address increased bottomhole drawdown pressure, a production rate regulatory program is developed. The research offers a novel computational approach for managing asphaltene precipitation, grounded in real-world data, and provides insights into optimizing production rates while ensuring flow assurance in oil well operations. Additionally, strategic recommendations for field development are proposed, including acid/hydraulic fracturing and deviated horizontal/bilateral wells drilling to mitigate bottomhole drawdown pressure.
Original languageEnglish
Article number212616
Number of pages19
Journal Geoenergy science and engineering
Volume234.2024
Issue numberMarch
Early online date27 Dec 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright: © 2023 The Authors

Keywords

  • Asphaltene deposition
  • Formation plug-in
  • Asphaltene inhibitor
  • Flow assurance
  • Rate regulation
  • Field management

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