An Effective Solution for Unwanted Water Production Obtained from Water Coning Mechanism: Field Application

Abstract

Abstract Undesired water or gas production has been an issue for decades within the petroleum industry. Cases of unwanted water production from water coning mechanisms are increasing and becoming a frequent challenge. This paper presents the implementation of a unique water shut-off system to effectively reduce or eliminate water production and maximize the life of the well. These systems are conformance polymer sealants (CPS), an organically crosslinked polymer that is thermally activated to adequately seal the targeted interval, and a particulate-CPS (P-CPS) that combines the CPS system with non-cementitious particulates that provide leak-off control to help ensure shallow reservoir penetration of the sealant. This unique technique involves the utilization of a rig to remove the electric submersible pump (ESP) and temporarily seal existing perforations. New perforations are then placed above the water-oil contact (WOC) to squeeze CPS and P-CPS systems. Both systems are then bullheaded into the well (spotted at a desired location in the wellbore), allowing easy, economic placement. CPS is a low-viscosity fluid system (20 to 30 cp), which enables easy injection deep into the matrix of the formation before the system undergoes the phase change from liquid to a 3D gel structure. Such deep penetration of CPS prevents water from traveling upwards when the target intervals are re-perforated, while P-CPS properly seals the current perforations above WOC. Finally, the ESP is re-installed, and the well is put back on production. This paper presents the results obtained from ten case histories in Kuwait. A salient case is the successful use of the CPS and P-CPS systems, resulting in reducing water cut by 100% and increasing oil production by 2362 BOPD (752%). The prospect of extending the effectiveness of this solution over an extended period of time and allowing the production from the existing flowing intervals, as opposed to that of the traditional operations, make this method a valuable alternative.