Integration of People, Process & Technology for Right-Time Production Management & Optimization in Brunei Shell Petroleum

Abstract

Abstract Intelligent wells and Smart Field concept have been introduced, and recently applied in some assets as a solution to increase production, reduce deferment and increase recovery. The value of Smart Field however can only be fully realized by integrating three main elements, Technology, Process and Resources. Combining subsurface smart well technologies, real-time data gathering, integrated modeling and control elements through appropriate resources and skills are core to close the smart field value loop and will result in better optimization, cost saving and enhancing ultimate recovery. Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) is a regional lead E&P Company and one of the Shell Companies to apply Smart Field value loop concept. Smart well applications have been implemented for a long time before in BSP. In mid 2003 BSP have taken further steps beyond Smart Well applications, when smart field value loop concept has been initiated in its East Asset. Subsurface smart well technologies, surface control engineering and real-time application systems have been integrated to achieve higher production gains, cost saving and enhance ultimate recovery. The smart field philosophy is not only about automation, it is about making available the three key ingredients that are needed to efficiently operate any machinery: reliable performance data, an integrated suite of tools to turn these data to information and operational advisories and a cadre of appropriate skilled professionals that use the information to make the right decisions. The objectives of this paper are to share the experience on smart field applications and operations in BSP, demonstrate the value of integrating Smart Field elements, demonstrate the importance of team integration to achieve the value loop and share the challenges encountered, lessons learnt and recommendations. Introduction The Smart Field hardware installations in BSP have significantly grown in the last two years across the 3 development Assets. The main objectives of the smart field applications are to monitor, manage, optimize and control the production for better reservoir management, production increase and enhancing the UR. More than 100 down-hole smart well equipments (PDHG, DTS, ICV, Wireless Gauges and eGLV) are currently installed in East, West and Land Assets. All these equipments are linked to the SCADA and corporate monitoring systems. Additionally, BSP has integrated the smart well equipment with smart field tools (Fieldware, Production Universe and Databroker) to fully utilize the data and convert them to useful information for better and faster decision and actions by relevant parties in the subsurface and surface communities. In mid 2003 BSP have taken further steps beyond Smart Well applications, by introducing the smart field value loop concept in its East Asset. Subsurface smart well technologies, surface control engineering and real-time application systems have been integrated along the Value Loop. Closing the Smart Field Value Loop will result in higher production gains, cost saving and enhancing ultimate recovery. Combining real-time data gathering, integrated modeling and control elements through appropriate resources and skills are core to close the Smart Field Value Loop. Shell has identified Iron Duke Greater Area development as the 1st smart field demonstration project for "closing the value loop" in the region and among Shell Companies. Iron Duke Greater Area consists of 4 platforms and a production of more than 7700 m3/d nett. The main objective of applying smart field value loop in the ID Greater Area was to increase production by reducing deferment and establishing continuous optimization of the wells. Various technologies (hardware and software) have been deployed and a lot of activities and upgrades have taken place to be able to close the value loop and achieve the targeted values. It is believed that some gains have already been achieved.