Development of a Vogel type Inflow Performance Relationship (IPR) for Horizontal wells

Abstract

Abstract Vogel1's Inflow performance relationship (IPR) is the most frequently used method for evaluating productivity of vertical wells and it has also been proven to be reliable and accurate. Due to this and the increase in the use of horizontal wells, a Vogel type inflow performance relationship for horizontal wells is developed in this paper and skin is included into the equation generated in terms of flow efficiency. The model is developed by inputting Vogel1, base case parameters into a Reservoir Simulator (Eclipse) and configuring the model as a vertical well. The results of the simulation are then validated with the Vogel1 Reference curve and after validation the configuration of the model is changed from that of a vertical well to a horizontal well. From this horizontal well model, a Vogel type IPR for horizontal wells is developed and skin which is a major factor affecting the productivity of wells is included into the equation generated. This developed Vogel type IPR for horizontal wells accounts for the flaws of previously used correlations for predicting the performance of horizontal wells. This is achieved by accounting for the heterogeneity of the reservoir as other correlations for predicting the productivity of horizontal wells have assumed a homogenous reservoir which is not the case in real reservoir situations. Skin is also included in thus Developed Vogel type IPR as other correlations have assumed a Zero skin, which is also not the case in real situations. Finally, the developed Vogel type IPR is tested for accuracy and consistency by comparing it frequently used correlations and the results obtained shows this Developed IPR is consistent and accurate and can therefore be used for evaluating the productivity of horizontal wells.