Autonomous ICD Installation Success in Ecuador Heavy Oil: A Case Study

Abstract

Abstract New technology has been called upon in Ecuador to help increase reserves and optimize the management of fluid in several reservoirs. Autonomous Inflow Control Devices (AICD) have provided increased oil production and decreased water production with installations in the Ginta field. When compared to neighboring wells completed with stand-alone screen technology and producing the same total liquid, the AICD installation initially produced more oil with a lower water cut percentage. Over several months, the water cut in the AICD installation eventually reached a similar level to that of offset completions; however, allowed significant more oil recovery prior to reaching that point. The heavy oil in these fields is approximately 60cP in viscosity. The wells are still in the evaluation phase; however, early data is of interest. Due to its autonomous sensing functionality, fluid viscosity dictates the path the produced fluid will take through the AICD. Higher viscosity oil takes a relatively non-restrictive path whereas low viscosity water is sent on a tortuous path causing a decrease in flow rate through that particular tool. A well completed with a system of AICDs and oil swelling packers for annular isolation restricts zones with high water ratios which in turn stimulates neighboring oil zones. This paper presents oil production data over time for two AICD heavy oil installations in Ecuador and compares the data to that from neighboring wells in the field. The benefit of AICD technology for reservoir management and production optimization will be discussed.