Revolutionizing Annulus Pressure Monitoring for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in E&P Industry

Abstract

Abstract Manual annulus pressure monitoring (APM) has long been recognized as a high-risk activity, exposing personnel on-site to considerable dangers. While APM remains crucial for detecting sub-surface failures in wells, it is imperative to explore alternative methods that mitigate associated risks. This paper delves into the challenges of traditional APM and presents an advanced solution that addresses these concerns. Petroleum Development Oman LLC (PDO) has introduced a systematic monitoring approach for APM across various well types. PDO has recently incorporated state-of-the-art technology, enabling real-time APM monitoring in specific wells. This technology allows direct visualization of pressure data from the wellsite, improving safety measures and data availability. Initially targeting high-risk wells with elevated pressure levels, advanced APM technology minimizes associated HSE concerns through frequent monitoring. By adopting this technology, PDO prioritizes on-site personnel safety and reduces the necessity for human interventions. Remote monitoring has further decreased the need for intervention, leading to enhanced HSE outcomes. The technology employed by PDO enables real-time acquisition of APM data, leading to everyday readings and a comprehensive dataset. Despite the accelerated data acquisition rate, the quality of the collected data remains uncompromised. This has instilled confidence in PDO's ability to perform accurate risk assessments for each well, fostering a better understanding of their conditions and potential incidents. Apart from the evident advantages in HSE, the implementation of advanced APM technology has yielded substantial operational and cost benefits for PDO. By eliminating the need for frequent manual checks, the associated costs of deploying operators for APM have been significantly reduced. This streamlined approach allows PDO to confidently manage well conditions, promptly mitigating any probable incidents. The introduction of advanced APM technology has revolutionized annulus pressure monitoring in petroleum development. Through real-time monitoring and data visualization, PDO has ensured enhanced safety measures, improved risk assessment capabilities, and optimized operational efficiency. This groundbreaking solution has transformed traditional APM practices, providing a pathway to a safer and more cost-effective future for the industry.