Unleashing Thermal Potential: Successes and Challenges in Steam Injection Well Completions for Thermally Assisted GOGD Heavy Oil Field

Abstract

Abstract Field-X is a heavily naturally fractured carbonate reservoir with viscous and sour oil. The recovery mechanism employed is thermally assisted gas oil gravity drainage (TA-GOGD), featuring a unique combination of a gas cap and strong aquifer influx—making it the first and only of its kind worldwide. The objective of this paper is to showcase the success stories and challenges associated with steam injection well completions in this unique and challenging producing environment. The focus is on the entire well completion process, including design, installation, remedial interventions, and operation, with a specific emphasis on maintaining well integrity and meeting field steam injection targets. Real case studies are presented, highlighting the success stories and challenges of steam injection well completions in Field-X. The improvements made in completion design are discussed, ranging from injection through cemented casing to sophisticated completions, and the challenges encountered with each design are also emphasized. Additionally, the learnings and challenges during the workover interventions using well pulling hoist (WPH) or wireline unit (WLU) are highlighted. Furthermore, operational philosophy and best practices for well integrity are presented, drawing on cumulative field experience. The Improved completion design has resulted in enhanced injection performance, improved well integrity, and consequently increased oil recovery and production. However, emerging issues that require further attention and mitigation are also identified. Additionally, the paper concludes by highlighting valuable lessons learned and providing recommendations concerning steam injection well interventions and operational strategies. Real case studies and valuable guidance are offered for optimizing steam injection well completions, contributing to the understanding of optimizing thermal recovery in similar carbonate reservoirs.