Understanding the Dynamic Behavior of Unconventional Horizontal Wells - A Blend of Physics and Data-Based Workflow for the Artificial Lift Life Cycle

Abstract

Abstract The pressure and flow rates in an unconventional horizontal well decline rapidly, making artificial lift (AL) an integral part of development. Due to the dynamic behavior of these wells, the artificial lift life cycle is critical, and detailed attention to the AL system is needed at all stages for optimized recovery. This includes the selection and reselection of the proper AL method, adjusting the operating parameters, and scheduling the related workovers. With higher well counts and every well having some form of AL, a workflow to help in understanding the dynamic nature of the wells and to plan the artificial lift life cycle proactively will be beneficial. This has the potential to add significant value in terms of failure reduction, expense and downtime reductions, and improved operating efficiency. The objective of this paper is to present a workflow using field data and an example case study that is easily scalable and can be applied to any field to add value.