Petroleum Experts

IPM Tutorials
IPM 4.0
January, 2004

Tutorial Examples

2 - 208 TUTORIAL GUIDE

The information in this document is subject to change as major improvements and/or

amendments to the program are done. When necessary, Petroleum Experts will
issue the proper documentation.
The software described in this manual is furnished under a licence agreement. The
software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
It is against the law to copy the software on any medium except as specifically
allowed in the license agreement. No part of this documentation may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording, or information storage and retrieval systems for any
purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, unless express written consent has
been given by Petroleum Experts Limited.
All names of companies, wells, persons or products contained in this documentation
are part of a fictitious scenario or scenarios and are used solely to document the use
of a Petroleum Experts product.

Address:
Petroleum Experts Limited
Spectrum House
2 Powderhall Road
Edinburgh, Scotland
EH7 4GB
Tel: (44 131) 474 7030
Fax: (44 131) 474 7031
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.petroleumexperts.com

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Registered Office:
Petroleum Experts Limited
Spectrum House
2 Powderhall Road
Edinburgh, Scotland
EH7 4GB

TUTORIAL GUIDE

3 - 208

Table of Contents
1

Introduction....................................................................................................................... 5
1.1

About This Guide ........................................................................................................ 5

1.2
How to use this guide.................................................................................................. 5
1.2.1 Symbols and conventions ..................................................................................... 6
2

Dexterity Examples .......................................................................................................... 7

2.1
GAP Gas Network Example........................................................................................ 7
2.1.1 STEP 1 : Initialise GAP ......................................................................................... 7
2.1.2 STEP 2 : Initialise GAP Method Options............................................................. 10
2.1.3 STEP 3 : Define GAP Model Schematically........................................................ 11
2.1.4 STEP 4 : Define the Well .................................................................................... 13
2.1.5 STEP 5 : Calculate the Well IPR and VLP.......................................................... 15
2.1.6 STEP 6 : Solve the GAP Network....................................................................... 20
2.1.7 STEP 7 : Material Balance Prediction................................................................. 22
2.1.8 STEP 8 : Constraints........................................................................................... 26
2.2
PROSPER Gas Well Example.................................................................................... 32
2.2.1 STEP 1 : Initialise PROSPER............................................................................... 32
2.2.2 STEP 2 : Initialise PROSPER Method Options .................................................... 34
2.2.3 STEP 3 : Initialise PVT Data ............................................................................... 35
2.2.4 STEP 4 : Initialise Well Inflow and Equipment.................................................... 36
2.3
MBAL Gas Reservoir Example ................................................................................. 44
2.3.1 STEP 1 : Initialise MBAL .................................................................................... 44
2.3.2 STEP 2 : Initialise MBAL Method Options .......................................................... 46
2.3.3 STEP 3 : Initialise PVT Data ............................................................................... 47
2.3.4 STEP 4 : Initialise Tank Parameters ................................................................... 48
2.3.4.1 Tank Parameters............................................................................................ 48
2.3.4.2 Water Influx .................................................................................................... 48
2.3.4.3 Rock Properties.............................................................................................. 48
2.3.4.4 Relative Permeabilities................................................................................... 48
2.4
GAP Gas-Lifted System ............................................................................................ 49
2.4.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................... 49
2.4.1.1 Definition of the Problem................................................................................ 49
2.4.1.2 Step-by-Step Approach.................................................................................. 50
2.4.2 Step 1: Setting up the System ............................................................................ 50
2.4.2.1 Starting a New File ......................................................................................... 50
2.4.2.2 Setting up the Optimisation Method ............................................................... 50
2.4.2.3 Setting up the units......................................................................................... 52
2.4.2.4 Setting Gas Injection Sources........................................................................ 53
2.4.3 Step 2: Drawing the system ................................................................................ 54
2.4.3.1 Adding Wells .................................................................................................. 54
2.4.3.2 Tie-backs........................................................................................................ 55
2.4.3.3 The Platform................................................................................................... 56
2.4.3.4 Pipes/Links ..................................................................................................... 56
2.4.3.5 Other Drawing Options................................................................................... 58
2.4.4 Step 3: Describing the wells................................................................................ 59
2.4.4.1 Entering Well Data ......................................................................................... 59
2.4.4.2 Generating IPRs From Existing PROSPER Well Models ................................ 60
2.4.4.3 Importing Existing Lift tables to the Well Models ........................................... 63
2.4.5 Step 4: Describing the Network .......................................................................... 64
2.4.5.1 Riser Description ............................................................................................ 64
2.4.5.2 Description of the tie-back TieOne ............................................................... 66
2.4.5.3 Description of the tie-back TieTwo ............................................................... 67

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

4 - 208 Tutorial Guide

2.4.6 Step 6: Allocating the Amount of Gas Available ................................................. 68
2.4.7 Step 7: Analysing the results .............................................................................. 70
2.4.8 Step 8 Associated Water / Gas Injection Model .............................................. 73
2.4.8.1 Set the Production Model............................................................................... 73
2.4.8.2 Create the Water Injection Model................................................................... 75
2.4.8.3 Link the Production and the Injection System................................................ 78
2.4.8.4 Running the Material Balance Prediction ....................................................... 81
2.4.8.5 Associated Gas Injection Model..................................................................... 86
3

Physics Examples .......................................................................................................... 88

3.1
Gas Lift Example....................................................................................................... 88
3.1.1 Setting Up the Basic Model................................................................................. 90
3.1.2 Matching Test Data and Data Quality Check Methods..................................... 103
3.1.3 Designing a New Gas Lift Well ......................................................................... 114
3.1.4 Using QuickLook as a Diagnostic Option to Check the Gas Lift Design .......... 118
3.2
PROSPER ESP Example ......................................................................................... 123
3.2.1 Setting up the Basic Model ............................................................................... 124
3.2.2 Matching Test Data and Data Quality Check Methods..................................... 133
3.2.3 Designing an ESP for this Problem................................................................... 139
3.2.4 Using ESP QuickLook as a Diagnostic Option to check an Existing ESP Design
146
3.3
MBAL Gas History Matching Example ................................................................... 155
3.3.1 STEP 1 : Initialise MBAL .................................................................................. 155
3.3.2 STEP 2 : Add Production History Data ............................................................. 155
3.3.3 STEP 3 : Material Balance Introduction ............................................................ 156
3.3.4 STEP 4 : Material Balance Matching ................................................................ 157
3.3.5 STEP 5 : Relative Permeability Matching ......................................................... 165
3.4
MBAL Oil History Matching Example...................................................................... 172
3.4.1 PVT Data........................................................................................................... 172
3.4.1.1 Production data ............................................................................................ 172
3.4.2 Setting up the Basic Model ............................................................................... 173
3.4.3 Matching to Production History data in MBAL.................................................. 182
3.4.4 Running Sensitivity Analysis on the Tank Model .............................................. 190
3.4.5 Using Simulation Option to Quality check the History Matched Model............. 192
3.5

Performing a Production Prediction starting from a history matched model........... 193

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 5

1 Introduction
This document contains tutorials for the Petroleum Experts software: PROSPER, MBAL
and GAP. The tutorials will lead you through a number of program examples. If you
are relatively new to the software, then these will allow you to use the software
immediately and will provide a good overview of the programs functionality.
The tutorials are split into two sections. The first set of tutorials is for beginners and
focuses on the dexterity skills needed to use the programs. The second set focuses
on the physics and engineering issues relating to the programs.

1.1 About This Guide

The guide assumes you are familiar with basic Windows operations and terminology.
The screen displays used in this guide are taken from the examples provided with the
software. On occasion, the data files may vary from the examples shown as updates
to the program are issued. Where major amendments or changes to the program
require further explanation, the corresponding documentation will be provided.
What is in this guide:

Chapter 2, Dexterity Examples, lists tutorials that concentrate on basic use

of the programs, but do not emphasise the physics of the engineering
problems concerned.

Chapter 3, Physics Examples, lists tutorials that assume the user

understands the basics of the programs, but concentrates on the physics of
the engineering problems.

1.2 How to use this guide

If you have not used Petroleum Experts software before you should work through all the
examples in Chapter 2 before moving on to Chapter 3.
If you are comfortable with using the Petroleum Experts software you may still find the
tutorials in Chapter 3 useful.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

6 - 208 Tutorial Guide

1.2.1 Symbols and conventions

Throughout the user guide, special fonts and/or icons are used to demonstrate
specific steps, instructions and procedures in the program.
PETEX program
ALL CAPS
Italics
Keycap

The term PETEX program is used when the comment is

applicable to MBAL or GAP.
Represent DOS directories, file names, and commands.
Used to highlight certain points of information.
Bold fonts are used to indicate a specific action to be taken.
For example: Click Done to exit the window.

Menu Command To avoid repeating the phrase Click the File menu and choose
the Open command, we use the File - Open convention instead.

Emphasises specific information to be entered or be aware of.

This keyboard icon marks step-by-step instructions.




PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

This symbol is a reminder to click the RIGHT mouse button.

Clicking the right mouse button performs specific functions in
MBAL, depending on the active dialogue box or plot. If you do not
have a right mouse button, holding down the SHIFT key while you
click the mouse button performs the required function.

Tutorial Guide 7

2 Dexterity Examples
This section contains the following tutorials:
GAP Gas Network Example:
This example builds a simple gas network system and runs a production prediction. It
uses PROSPER to model the wells in the system and MBAL to model the tanks.
PROSPER Gas Well Example:
This example is used within the GAP Gas Network example to show how to set up
the well models required in the gas network system. It can also be run in isolation.
MBAL Gas Reservoir Example:
This example is used within the GAP Gas Network example to show how to set up
the tanks in the gas network system. It can also be run in isolation.
GAP Gas Lift Example:
This self-contained example builds and optimises an oil production system using gas
lift.

2.1 GAP Gas Network Example

This tutorial example is designed to provide a step-by-step introduction to the GAP
program. The emphasis is on the data entry required to model and analyse the
production potential of a dry gas producing reservoir (no condensates). The actual
data is of little importance: for clarity it has been chosen to be minimal. However, the
systematic method used to generate the GAP model using PROSPER and MBAL is
an important element of the tutorial. The PROSPER and MBAL phases are separate
modules referenced from within this GAP tutorial.

2.1.1 STEP 1 : Initialise GAP

This section describes how GAP is started and how the location of the required
associated files is initialised.
Start the GAP program by running GAP.EXE, which can be found in the Petroleum
Experts directory (default C:\Program Files\Petroleum Experts\IPM 4.0). See the GAP
manual for more details on how to start GAP. The version of GAP being used may
be checked by selecting, Help | About GAP.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

8 - 208 Tutorial Guide

Figure 1: About GAP version and build information

The command options (File, Options etc.) at the top of the GAP window are laid out
in a logical order (left to right) that reflects the order in which operations will usually
be performed. Check that File | Directories and check that they point to the current
versions of PROSPER and MBAL respectively. It is recommended that you always
use the default Same as GAP. The PROSPER and MBAL applications can also be
found in the Petroleum Experts directory.

Figure 2: Directories settings

Note that files saved with these versions of GAP, PROSPER and MBAL will not be
readable by previous versions. It is recommended, therefore, that the File | Directory
| GAP and MBAL Data Directory options are set to point to directories that are
exclusively used to store data files created with the current software versions.
When GAP is started a new file is initialised (unless otherwise specified in the
preferences). If you wish you can ensure initialisation by selecting File | New or the
toolbar accelerator

to start a new file.

It is important to ensure that consistent units are used throughout, particularly when
data generated by PROSPER and MBAL are incorporated into a GAP model. Oilfield
units will be used for this example. Select Options | Units to view the units used by

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 9

GAP for input and output, the data validation ranges, and output precision. Near the
top of the screen within the table heading select Oilfield for both input and output
units (as shown in Figure 3), and then select OK.

Figure 3: Oilfield Units for Input and Output

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

10 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.1.2 STEP 2 : Initialise GAP Method Options

In this section the scope of calculations that GAP will be asked to perform will be
defined.
This example has a dry gas reservoir feeding a delivery pipeline 10000 ft away. No
production history is available, but the extent and composition of the reservoir has
been estimated, allowing a material balance prediction to be performed.
Select Options | Method to set the GAP calculation method.

Figure 4: Setting the options

Set Prediction type to On. This tells GAP how to update reservoir pressures during a
Prediction calculation. A constant reservoir pressure can be specified by selecting
None, in which case no prediction calculations are performed: in this case, the model
represents the system at an instant in time and no tank models are required.
Optimisation may be performed for both predictive (depleting reservoir) and nonpredictive (constant reservoir) calculations.
Set System type to Production, Prediction method to Pressure and temperature,
Optimisation method to Production, and Track Compositions to No. The completed

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 11

method screen is shown above. This completes the GAP calculation method set-up.
Select OK to return to the main GAP window.

2.1.3 STEP 3 : Define GAP Model Schematically

In this section the components required to model a simple gas production network
are specified. The properties of the components and reservoir fluids are entered at a
later stage using PROSPER and MBAL.
The model will consist of a reservoir tank, a gas production well and a pipeline
connecting the well manifold to the delivery pipeline. It is recommended that the GAP
model be specified from the separator (delivery pipeline) end towards the reservoir,
allowing the complexity to develop naturally as the model is entered. Since this
example is very simple it makes little difference in what order the components are
created.
The toolbar (
) is
used to create and modify components on the network schematic. Note that when
they are selected they remain active until they are unselected. The exception to this
is the Delete icon, which must be selected for each deletion. To identify an icon,
hold the mouse cursor over it until a yellow box appears with a short description of
the icon function.
Select the Separator
icon and click the left-hand mouse button in the main GAP
display area towards the top right. Give the resulting node the name Separator
when requested. The name is just a label and is not required, but it is generally a
good idea to identify the nodes in this way. A separator is considered by GAP to be
the end of the production chain and will be allocated a pressure at a later stage. It
does not have to actually be a separator, rather a convenient delivery point where a
known pressure exists.
Next, select the Joint
icon and add a joint. Name this Manifold 1. Place the
manifold to the left of the separator. Place a second Manifold 2 to the left of this. A
joint is any manifold or intersection where pipes converge. Every pipe must have
both ends connected to joints.
Select the Well

icon and add a well below the Manifold 2. Name this Well.

Select the Tank

icon and add a Tank, named Tank below the well.

Finally link the components together by selecting the Link

icon and dragging
the left-hand mouse button between two components. Connect the Tank to its Well,
and the Well to its Manifold 2, then manifold 2 to 1 for the pipe, finally connect the
Manifold 1 to the Separator. Note that a pipe component has been inserted between
the two Manifolds. No pipe components have been entered between the Tank, Well,
and Manifold 2 since any piping between these components is assumed to be
implicitly defined by the Well.
Deselect the Link icon to prevent adding more links.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

12 - 208

Tutorial Guide

The basic model layout has been specified: additional components can easily be
added or deleted as the model is refined later. The GAP screen display should look
something like the following image.

Figure 5: Schematic Network Diagram

Use File | Save As to save the work done this far to a GAP file (Gasres.GAP) in a
suitable directory.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 13

2.1.4 STEP 4 : Define the Well

In this step we specify the physical characteristics of the well and perforation interval
that will define the flow from the reservoir to the wellhead (Manifold in this example).
Although data may be entered directly into GAP, PROSPER will be used to enter the
well properties. The advantage of using PROSPER is principally that the VLPs and
IPRs can be generated later by automatic batch calls to PROSPER from GAP. VLPs
and IPRs are elements that describe the performance of a well. We recommend the
use of VLP/IPR Intersection as the well model.
Please refer to the GAP manual for more details on well models and available
options.
Additionally, matching to production history and sensitivity analysis of the well can be
performed using PROSPER.
Double click the left-hand mouse button within the Well component on the GAP
display screen. An Equipment Data Entry screen is then displayed. All of the model
components can be seen in the right window and data entry for any component can
be made by selecting the required component with a left mouse click. The red
crosses show where insufficient data has been entered. Within the Well data entry
screen change the Well Type to Gas Producer (which changes the well colour from
green to red). Select the Model as VLP / IPR Intersection.

Figure 6: Equipment Data Entry Screen immediately before starting PROSPER

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

14 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Select the Run PROSPER button and wait for PROSPER to load. Check that the
correct version of PROSPER has loaded, otherwise check File | Directory from within
GAP. Go to the PROSPER Gas Well Example (See Section 2.2 below) to set up the
PROSPER model.
Go to the PROSPER Gas Well Example now Section 2.2.
Once the PROSPER exercise is complete return to GAP from PROSPER by selecting
GAP. It is recommended that any changes made to a PROSPER file are saved
before returning to GAP.
On returning to GAP after creating a PROSPER file enter its file name in the
PROSPER Well File field of the Equipment Data Entry screen. Use the Browse button
to locate the file. The output (e.g. Gasres.OUT) PROSPER file should be used in
preference to the input (Gasres.SIN) and analysis (Gasres.ANL) files. If the full drive
and path to the PROSPER file are not entered in the Well File field, then GAP will look
for the PROSPER file in the directory defined by File | Directories.
Notice that the status of the Well File field has changed from Invalid to Valid. To
further check that the PROSPER file is properly located select Run PROSPER and
then return to GAP by selecting GAP once the PROSPER file has loaded.
Select OK to return to the GAP main window.

Now save the GAP file by clicking on

confirmation.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

and selecting Yes to the overwrite

Tutorial Guide 15

2.1.5 STEP 5 : Calculate the Well IPR and VLP

The Inflow Performance Relation (IPR) and Vertical Lift Performance (VLP) data can
now be generated automatically by batch calls to PROSPER.
Select Generate | Generate Well VLPs | All | Data to specify the ranges of data for
which data should be generated. PROSPER is called to load the values it already has
stored. Select the Edit button next to the Well label. Enter the following data
ranges:

Figure 7: VLP Data Ranges

Note that the Populate buttons can be used to create the tables rather than the
data being entered manually.
This table covers the range of possible gas production rates, manifold (well head)
pressures and water to gas ratios (WGR) that may occur. Since the gas is a dry gas,
the condensate to gas ratio (CGR) will always be 0.
Select OK and then Generate to perform the calculations using PROSPER: this may
take some time. Select OK | OK when the calculations have completed.
Go back to the main screen. Double-click on the Well icon to bring up the well
summary screen. Notice that the colour of the box next to the word VLP has turned
green. This indicated that the VLP generation has been completed.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

16 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 8: VLP in well screen showing OK

The inflow performance relationship (IPR) of the well has been described in the
PROSPER well model. We need to transfer the IPR from PROSPER to GAP. For gas
wells, while importing the IPR from PROSPER to GAP, GAP will take three points
from the PROSPER IPR, and fit the three points with either Forcheimer or C & n IPR
method (Defined by user in the IPR screen of the well in GAP).
In GAP, when selecting Generate/Transfer IPRs From PROSPER means open the
PROSPER file, read three points from PROSPER IPR, and fit the points with the
selected IPR method in GAP.
To transfer the IPR for this well, click on | Generate | Transfer well IPRs from
PROSPER in the main GAP window.
You will see a screen as below:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 17

Figure 9: Generate error message

This is because we have not select any well yet. Click on | All to select all the valid
wells in the model (in this case only one).

Figure 10: Select wells message

The screen above shows you the selected wells. Click on | Generate to proceed.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

18 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 11: Select layer message

In GAP, you can model multilayer well. Each layer can have their own IPR. In this
screen, you are going to tell GAP, about the IPR that it is about to read, belongs to
which layer. If you have a single layer well, just leave the layer index as it is (layer 1).
Click | OK to continue.
The IPR generation will begin and when it finishes, you will see the message:

Figure 12: IPR generation finish message

Click | OK to go back to the main screen. Double-click on the Well icon to bring up
the well summary screen. Notice that the colour of the box next to the word IPR is
still red. This indicates that although the IPR generation has been completed, the
Fractional Flow relative permeability set is still invalid.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 19

Figure 13: Relative Permeability screen

Click on the drop down menu and select the option From Tank Model in order to
validate it.

Now save the GAP file by clicking on

confirmation.

JANUARY 2004

and selecting Yes to the overwrite

TUTORIAL GUIDE

20 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.1.6 STEP 6 : Solve the GAP Network

This section describes the solving of the Network by the allocation of a separator
pressure from which an unconstrained flow can be calculated. This is a precursor to
the material balance calculation in which the reservoir pressure reduces as the
reservoir fluid is produced.
Double-click the left-hand mouse button within the Well on the main GAP display
area. Notice that all of the Data Summary flags are green and the Well has a green
tick next to it in the list of components on the right side of the Equipment Data Entry
screen. If this is not the case, then the VLP and IPR have not been calculated
correctly and STEP 5 should be repeated carefully.
Before the Network solver can be performed, the pipe must be defined. Double click
the left-hand mouse button over the pipe on the main window and select Input at the
bottom of the screen, followed by the Description tab, leaving the default
Environment properties. Enter the following pipe data:
Length = 10000 ft
TVD downstream = 0 ft
TVD upstream = 0 ft
Inside diameter = 6 ins
Roughness = 0.0006 ins
Select OK to return to the main screen.

Figure 14: Pipe Data Input

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 21

Perform the Solve Network from the main menu and put Pressure 1 Separator
Pressue at 1300 psig. Select Next | Calculate, when the calculation is finished
select Main. Provided that the pipe line is not a bottle necked the pipe icon will stay
blue. If there is a bottle neck the icon would turn red.
The results can be seen by hovering the mouse over each node. The following
information will be seen: Pressure; Temp.; Qo; Qg; Qwat; Qginj; and dP for the exit
point of that item.

Figure 15: Check solution

If a pressure is allocated to the Separator, then the flow within the network can be
calculated by GAP tracing back through the component PCs from the separator
towards the well.
Now the results can be viewed. Select Results | Detailed | All Items and note the
gas production rate of 70 MMscf/day. Select OK to return to the main GAP window.

Now save the GAP file by clicking on

confirmation.

JANUARY 2004

and selecting Yes to the overwrite

TUTORIAL GUIDE

22 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.1.7 STEP 7 : Material Balance Prediction

In this section a tank model is defined using MBAL, and a material balance prediction
of flow and pressure decline is undertaken.
Go to the MBAL Gas Reservoir Example now see Section 2.3. The standalone
version of MBAL must be used to generate the tank model. Double Click on the tank
and then select Run MBAL in the Summary Screen.
If MBAL has been accessed from GAP, upon returning to GAP from MBAL, the path
of the MBAL file should be displayed in the Tank Summary Screen of GAP.
However, if you prepare the MBAL file by running MBAL independently, then you
have to specify the file path of the MBAL model for GAP manually. To do this, double
click the left-hand mouse button over the Tank within the main display, and select
Browse to locate the MBAL file (GASRES.MBI). Notice that the Tank component
now has green tick beside its name in the right side of the Equipment Data Entry
screen.

Figure 16: Tank summary screen

The material balance tank model is now in place and a prediction can be performed.
A straightforward prediction will be run first, with no constraints or events occurring
during the production. This is essentially the same as the Solve Network calculation
performed previously, except that a material balance calculation is performed after
each time step to update the reservoir pressure and PVT properties.
Select Prediction | Run Prediction and set the following time control data.

Start Date

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

01/01/2005

Tutorial Guide 23

End Date
Step Size

01/01/2020
1 Year(s)

Select Next | Next and allocate a Separator pressure of 1300 psig. Select Next |
Calculate and allow the Solve Network cycle to be performed for each of the 15 time
steps requested.

Figure 17: Calculation screen

When the run is complete select Back | Back.

The results from the material balance prediction can be viewed by selecting Plot
Nodes, and highlighting the Separator, Manifold 1 and 2 and Well nodes from the
resulting list. Since the components are all in series, the flow parameters should be
identical for each node and have overlying curves.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

24 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 18: Select nodes to plot

Click on Plot and a plot window will appear. Select Variables and look at the plot for
Gas rate by highlighting it and selecting OK. Plot the Water rate, Reservoir
pressure and Cum Gas Production graphs.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 25

Figure 19: Results Gas rates

The initial peak gas rate should be 70 MMscf/day, and the peak water rate should be
43 STB/day. This water is the vaporised and connate water released as the reservoir
depressurises and the water and formation rocks contract. Select Main to return the
main GAP window.
No constraints have been entered for this system, and it is recommended that none
are entered until the potential of the system has been established. At this point the
user should consider design options, potential problems and possibly sensitivity
analysis.
Now save the GAP file by clicking on
confirmation.

JANUARY 2004

and selecting Yes to the overwrite

TUTORIAL GUIDE

26 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.1.8 STEP 8 : Constraints

In this section a constraint will be applied to the maximum flow rate that can be
passed through the separator. One of the wells will initially have to be choked back to
satisfy the separator constraint.
Select the well

icon and add a new well next to the current well.

The already defined well properties (VLPs, IPR, PVT etc) can be copied to the new
well by holding the Ctrl key down while selecting the first well with the left mouse
button, and dragging the mouse over the new well.
Add a link between the new well and the Manifold 2 using the link icon, and then
deselect the link icon.

Figure 20: Adding a second well

Enter the Summary Data Entry screen for the second well by double-clicking on the
icon with the left-hand mouse button. Change its label to Well 2 in the top left of the
screen, and then click on the green area next to dP Control in the lower part of the
screen. These buttons are accelerators to different screens of equipment input data.
Set the dP Control box to Yes and the Delta P Choice to Calculated. This will
simulate the presence of a well head choke that allows GAP to reduce the flow from
the well and meet any constraints imposed on the system.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 27

Figure 21: Setting the well to controllable choke

Select OK. The potentially choked (controllable) well will have a ring around it.

Figure 22: Controllable well has a thin red circle around it

Enter the Separator data entry screen by double-clicking the left-hand mouse button
over the separator icon. Navigate to the Constraints data entry by clicking on the
Constraints accelerator in the lower half of the Equipment Data Entry screen. Enter a
Max gas production of 100 MMscf/day, and then select OK.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

28 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 23: Setting constraint at separator

The separator constraint is shown on the display as two inward pointing arrows, as
shown in the figure below.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 29

Figure 24: Schematic Diagram with Controllable Well and Constrained Separator

Select Solve Network | Next click on the Optimise and Honour Constraints
option:

Figure 25: Calculation screen showing Optimise checkbox

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

30 - 208

Tutorial Guide

and Calculate to solve the system with constraint, then Main when the calculation
has finished. As you have two wells and one is selected with dP control, using
optimise the solver will control Well 2 to achieve the constraint set at the Separator.
Go to Results | Detailed | All Wells. The Gas production for the two wells can then
be noted. Use Next to move to Well 2 and not that the production has been choked
back to 33 MMscf/day to achieve to constraint at separator.
Notice that the pipe icon has changed colour from blue to red. This indicates that this
pipeline is bottlenecking the system.

Figure 26: Bottle-neck pipeline

Double click on the pipe and select Results | Network Solver tab screen and note
that the Bottle Neck flag shows Choked. From this we see that the combined flow
from the two wells can be greater, but the pipe between the Manifold 2 and Manifold
1 is bottlenecking the system.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 31

Figure 27: Bottle neck flag

If a prediction is now done (selecting to honour the constraints), then Well 2 will be
choked back as long as the potential of the system is greater than the constraint set:

Figure 28: Well results

Save the GAP file using

JANUARY 2004

and select Yes to overwrite the current file.

TUTORIAL GUIDE

32 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.2 PROSPER Gas Well Example

This tutorial example is designed to provide a step-by-step introduction to the
PROSPER program. The emphasis is on the data entry required to model a dry gas
producing well for inclusion into a GAP model. See the GAP Gas Network Example
for further details. Since it is hoped that this example will be used as a phase in the
GAP Gas Network Example, it is anticipated that PROSPER will have been loaded
from within GAP. However if that is not the case, this example can be run using the
standalone version of PROSPER.
PROSPER is a single well characterisation program. Its output is principally Inflow
Performance Relations (IPRs) and Vertical Lift Performances (VLPs). These relations
respectively describe the inflow to the well sandface from the reservoir and the
outflow from the well sandface to a manifold (or well head) at the top of the well.
These pressure and flow correlations are heavily reliant on the PVT (Pressure,
Volume, and Temperature) characteristics of the produced fluid. Using Inflow and
Outflow, we know the behaviour of the well in terms of the flow rates vs. bottom hole
pressures for a given mean reservoir pressure.
In addition PROSPER has tools to match known correlations to observed production
history and perform detailed sensitivity analyses.

2.2.1 STEP 1 : Initialise PROSPER

If PROSPER has not been started from with GAP, then start the PROSPER
program by running PROSPER.EXE, which can be found in the Petroleum Experts
directory (default C:\Program Files\Petroleum Experts\IPM 4.0). See the
PROSPER manual for more details on how to start PROSPER.
Check that the current version of PROSPER has been loaded. The version of
PROSPER being used can be seen in the title bar.
The command options (File, Options etc.) at the top of the PROSPER window
are laid out in a logical order (left to right) that reflects the order in which
operations will usually be performed.
Select File | New to start a new file if required. If this option is not available,
then PROSPER has already started a new file.
Note that files saved with this version of PROSPER will not be readable by
previous versions. Select File | Preferences followed by the File tab. It is
recommended that the Default Data Directory field is set (using the Browse
button) to point to a directory that is exclusively used to store data files
created with the current software version.
Now select the Units tab. It is important to ensure that consistent units are
used throughout, particularly when data generated by PROSPER may be
incorporated into an MBAL or GAP model. Oilfield units will be used for this
example. Ensure that Input Units and Output Units box have Oilfield
selected. Select Done to return to the main PROSPER window.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 33

Figure 29: Preferences screen

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

34 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.2.2 STEP 2 : Initialise PROSPER Method Options

In this section the type of well and reservoir fluid that PROSPER will use are defined.
Their detailed specification will be entered later.
This example has a dry gas producing well. Select Options | Options to display the
System Summary screen. This screen is primarily used so that PROSPER can
provide only the relevant screens as the model is constructed. Set the options shown
below and click Done.

Figure 30: Completed System Summary Screen

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 35

2.2.3 STEP 3 : Initialise PVT Data

This simple example will use an unmatched Black Oil PVT to characterise the
reservoir fluid. Select PVT | Input Data to enter the PVT data. Notice the options to
match correlations to data, or to use lookup tables of PVT data. Enter the following
data and select Done.
Gas gravity
Separator pressure
Condensate to Gas Ratio
Condensate gravity
Water to Gas ratio
Water salinity
Mole Percent H2S
Mole Percent CO2
Mole Percent N2
Reservoir Pressure
Reservoir Temperature

0.59
100 psig
0 STB/MMscf
50 API
0 STB/MMscf
10000 ppm
0%
0%
0%
11500 psig
230 deg F

Figure 31: PVT Data Screen

The condensate gravity of 50 API will not be used for a dry gas, however a value
greater than 5 is required by default. See the PROSPER manual on details of how to
change unit range defaults.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

36 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.2.4 STEP 4 : Initialise Well Inflow and Equipment

This step defines the properties of the reservoir and well that will determine the flow
rate of the produced fluid for a given reservoir pressure and well head pressure.
Select System | Equipment (Tubing etc) to input the well properties. Select All, and
then Edit. Enter the following deviation survey data describing a vertical well profile
down to a depth of 17350 ft. Click Done when the deviation survey data has been
entered.
Measured Depth (ft)
0
17350

True Vertical Depth (ft)

0
17350

Figure 32: Deviation Survey

No surface equipment will be entered for this simple model. Note that all equipment
between the well head and manifold defined in GAP would in general have to be
entered here. Select Cancel.
PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 37

Enter the following tubing and casing data in the downhole equipment screen, and
then click Done.
Type
Xmass tree
Tubing
Casing

Measured depth (ft)

0
17250
17350

Inside diameter (in)

2.992
6

Roughness (in)
0.0006
0.0006

Figure 33: Downhole Equipment

This model is performing a pressure and temperature calculation, therefore the

temperature of the surrounding formations and a mean heat transfer coefficient are
required. Enter the following linear geothermal gradient and then select Done.
Measured Depth (ft)
0
17350

Formation temperature (oF)

60
230

Overall heat transfer coefficient

JANUARY 2004

3 BTU/ft2/F/hr

TUTORIAL GUIDE

38 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 34: Geothermal Gradient

For Average Heat Capacity, we use the default values. Click on Done to accept the
values.
We are now back to the main Equipment Entry screen. Select Summary | Draw
Downhole to view a schematic of the downhole equipment that has been entered.
Select Main to save the input data and return to the main PROSPER window.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 39

Figure 35: Downhole equipment sketch

The data required to calculate VLPs has been defined, although the VLP correlation
function has not yet been entered. Now the reservoir inflow must be characterised
by defining an IPR.
In PROSPER main screen, select System | Inflow Performance to open the IPR
Input screen. Highlight the Petroleum Experts Reservoir Model and Enter Skin By
Hand for the Mechanical/Geometrical Skin. Set the following data in the lower right of
the screen.

Reservoir Pressure
Reservoir Temperature
Water Gas Ratio
Condensate Gas Ratio

JANUARY 2004

11500 psig
230 degrees F
0 STB/MMscf
0 STB/MMscf

TUTORIAL GUIDE

40 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 36: Inflow performance model selection

Select the Input Data button at the top right of the screen and enter the following
data within the Reservoir Model tab.

Reservoir Permeability
Reservoir Thickness
Drainage Area
Dietz Shape Factor
Wellbore Radius
Perforation Interval
Time
Reservoir Porosity
Swc

20 md
100 feet
2500 acres
31.6
0.354 feet
30 feet
100 days
0.2
0.2

Select the Mech/Geom Skin tab and enter a value of 2. Select Calculate. An IPR
plot showing the inflow to the well as a function of the wells sandface pressure will
be shown. An AOF of 143 MMscf/day is shown as the cutoff (maximum) flow.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 41

Figure 37: Inflow performance relation plot

When building field models and the answer for AOF is 150 MMscf/day, then note the
y-axis minimum pressure is likely not be at 0 (zero). This is not maximum flow.
Check the limits for maximum AOF. Select Main and then select File | Preferences
and tab Limits. Note the Maximum AOF for GAS and change it to say 2000.
Select Done | System | Inflow Performance | Calculate, the displayed AOF will
now be OK. The y-axis minimum pressure will be 0 (zero), i.e. maximum flow. Select
Main to save the data and return to the main PROSPER window.
There is no production history to match data with so we will move on to the
calculation phase to check that the IPR and VLP that had been defined appear
reasonable. Select Calculation | System (IPR+VLP) and enter the following data.

Top Node Pressure

Water Gas Ratio
Vertical Lift Correlation
Solution Node
Rate Method

JANUARY 2004

1500 psig
0 STB/MMscf
Petroleum Experts 2
Bottom Node
Automatic - Linear

TUTORIAL GUIDE

42 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 38: System calculation entry screen

Please note that although a WGR of 0 was entered, the program will use the
Minimum WGR calculated in the PVT screen (vaporized water).
If matching had been performed, the correlations would have been chosen and fitted
using non-linear regression. As it is, unmatched correlations will be used.
Select Continue | Continue | Calculate and allow PROSPER to perform the
calculation. Confirm the end of the calculation by clicking OK. Scroll right (towards
the bottom of the screen) within the Results display until the dP Friction and dP
Gravity columns are shown. Notice that for moderate and large gas flow rates, the
frictional pressure drop within the well dominates the gravitational pressure drop to
such an extent that these flow rates are unlikely to ever be achieved, suggesting that
perhaps a larger diameter well should be considered. Select Plot to display the
results.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 43

Figure 39: IPR and VLP Curves

The X-axis shows the produced gas flow rate and the Y-axis shows the well sandface
pressure. The reservoir pressure has been set to 11500 psig and the well head
pressure to 1500 psig. For these pressures, the IPR (blue curve) and VLP (red curve)
intersect at a well sandface pressure of 8564 psig and flow rate of 73 MMscf/day,
these being the flow conditions that the well would actually achieve (i.e. the unique
flow pressure solution that lies on both the IPR and VLP curves). If the mouse cursor
is moved within the plot, the X and Y coordinate values are displayed at the top right
of the screen.
The relatively steep gradient of the VLP curve compared with the IPR curve indicates
that most of the available pressure drop from the reservoir to the well head will be
within the well as a consequence of its large frictional resistance.
Select Finish and note that the solution values are displayed on the right of the
Calculation Output screen.
Select Main and File |Save As to save the PROSPER data. Enter the file name
(Gasres.OUT) in a suitable directory, remembering not to overwrite a PROSPER file
generated with an earlier version of PROSPER, and then select Done.
If PROSPER was being run from GAP, select GAP and return to the GAP Gas
Network Example documentation, otherwise select File | Exit.
If you are following the example for building a GAP, PROSPER, MBAL model, you
have been directed to jump to this Section 2.2 from Section 2.1.4 (pg. 14). You have
now completed Section 2.2. Go back to pg. 14 now.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

44 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.3 MBAL Gas Reservoir Example

This tutorial example is designed to provide a step-by-step introduction to the MBAL
program. The emphasis is on the data entry required to model a dry gas reservoir for
inclusion into a GAP model. See the GAP Gas Example 2.1 for further details. This
example should be run using the standalone version of MBAL.
MBAL is a reservoir analysis tool that uses the production history of a reservoir and
the PVT characteristics of the production fluid to perform mass balance calculations
to estimate the Stock Tank Original Oil In Place (STOOIP) and identify the driving
mechanisms within the reservoir (fluid expansion, formation expansion and aquifer
inflow). Good PVT characterisation and production history are usually an essential
input to an MBAL calculation, but for this tutorial example a minimum of input data is
required.
With respect to the GAP Gas Example, the purpose of the MBAL model is to define
the reservoir characteristics so that material balance prediction calculations can be
performed by GAP.

2.3.1 STEP 1 : Initialise MBAL

Start the MBAL program by running MBAL.EXE, which can be found in the Petroleum
Experts directory (default C:\Program Files\Petroleum Experts\IPM 4.0). See the MBAL
manual for more details on how to start MBAL.
If you are starting from GAP, double click on the tank and select Run MBAL button at
the top of the screen.

Figure 40: MBAL main screen

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 45

Check that the current version of MBAL has been loaded. Select Help | About
MBAL Package to check the version number.
Select File | New to start a new file, and then select Tool | Material Balance to start
an MBAL material balance session.
The command options (File, Tool, Options etc.) at the top of the MBAL window are
laid out in a logical order (left to right) that reflects the order in which operations will
usually be performed. Note that files saved with this version of MBAL will not be
readable by previous versions. It is therefore recommended that the File | Data
Directory option is set to point to a directory that is exclusively used to store data
files created with the current software version.
It is important to ensure that consistent units are used throughout, particularly when
data generated by MBAL may be incorporated into a GAP model. Oilfield units will be
used for this example. Select Units to view the units used by MBAL for both input
and output, as well as the expected data ranges. Near the bottom of the screen
select Oilfield for both input and output units, and then select Done.

Figure 41: Oilfield Units for Input and Output

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

46 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.3.2 STEP 2 : Initialise MBAL Method Options

In this section the type of reservoir fluid and tank model that MBAL will use will be
defined. Their detailed specification will be entered later.
This example has a dry gas reservoir. Select Options to display the System Options
screen. This screen allows MBAL to guide you through the model set-up by only
presenting the relevant screens as it is constructed. Set the options shown in the
figure below and then select Done.

Figure 42: Completed System Options Screen

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 47

2.3.3 STEP 3 : Initialise PVT Data

This simple example will use an unmatched Black Oil PVT to characterise the
reservoir fluid. Select PVT | Fluid Properties to enter the PVT data. Note the
options to match correlations to data, or to use lookup tables of PVT data.
The PVT data used by MBAL must be the same as that used by PROSPER if an
integrated GAP model involving MBAL and PROSPER is to be used. To aid this
process, MBAL can import the PVT data used by PROSPER by using the Import
button to import a PVT file generated by PROSPER (e.g. GASRES.PVT). If this is
done, then the same matching to correlations or tabulated values must be initialised
within MBAL.
If data is not imported from a PROSPER generated PVT file, then enter the data as
shown in the figure below, and select Done. The condensate gravity of 50 API will
not be used for a dry gas, but a value greater than 5 is required by default. See the
MBAL manual for details on how to change unit range defaults.
Gas gravity
Separator pressure
Condensate to Gas ratio
Condensate gravity
Water salinity
Mole percent H2S
Mole percent CO2
Mole percent N2

0.59
100 psig
0 STB/MMscf
50 API
10000 ppm
0%
0%
0%

Figure 43: PVT Data Screen

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

48 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.3.4 STEP 4 : Initialise Tank Parameters

This step defines the physical properties of the reservoir required for material
balance calculations.
From MBAL main screen, select Input | Tank Data to input the tank properties. Add
the following parameters to each of the available tabs within the Tank Input Data
screen. Use the Validate button at the bottom of the screens to validate the data
input.

2.3.4.1Tank Parameters

Tank Type
Temperature
Initial Pressure
Porosity
Connate Water Saturation
Water Compressibility
Original Gas In Place
Start of Production

Gas
230 degrees F
11500 psig
0.2 fraction
0.2 fraction
Use Corr 1/psi
600 Bscf
01/01/2005

2.3.4.2Water Influx

Model

None

2.3.4.3Rock Properties

Check the From Correlation button.

2.3.4.4Relative Permeabilities

Krw
Krg

Rel Perm. From

Water Sweep Eff.

Corey Functions
100 percent

Residual Saturation
0.2
0.01

End Point
0.8
0.9

Exponent
2
1.5

Note that the residual saturation for the water relative permeability corresponds to the
connate water saturation.
There is no Pore Volume vs Depth or Production History data to be entered. Select
Done when the data has been entered.
With no production history, no history matching is possible. Select File | Save As to
save the MBAL data. Enter the file name GasRes.MBI in a suitable directory,
remembering not to overwrite a file generated with an earlier version of MBAL.
If MBAL was being run from GAP, select GAP. Otherwise, select File | Exit.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 49

If the GAP Gas Example is being followed then return to the GAP documentation,
otherwise the MBAL Oil History Matching Example in the Physics section may be
used to demonstrate the history matching features available in MBAL.
If you are following the example for building a GAP, PROSPER, MBAL model, you
have been directed to jump to this Section 2.3 from Section 2.1.7 (pg. 22). You have
now completed Section 2.3. Go back to pg. 22 now.

2.4 GAP Gas-Lifted System

The main objective of this example is to show how GAP can be used to optimize the
gas lift allocation to gas lifted wells in a simple production system, and hence
optimize the total oil production from the field.

2.4.1 Introduction
This tutorial not only offers a step-by-step guide to the setting up of the problem, but
also gives an overview of other GAP functionality that can be used alongside, in
addition to, or instead of the given approach. These points will be made in the body
of the text.
It is advised that the step-by-step guide is followed on the computer, entering data as
requested. We would encourage browsing around the system as you proceed
through the guide: this can be a useful way of learning about other features of GAP
that are not described here. For more detail on a particular feature, please refer to
the main GAP manual.
Menu commands are described in this tutorial using (for example) the following
scheme: File | Exit means select the Exit option from the File drop-down menu item.

2.4.1.1Definition of the Problem

The system that we are to set up is as follows:

An oilfield has two gas lifted wells: well GL#1 and well GL#2.

Each well is tied back to the riser base via a 1500 ft flowline.

Each flowline has an ID of 5 inches.

The riser is 500 ft long and has an ID of 10 inches.

The platform is at 500 ft above the seabed. The seabed is assumed to be

flat.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

50 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.1.2Step-by-Step Approach
We summarise here the standard steps taken in building a network model from
scratch. Although the actual steps taken in building a model will vary depending on
the model, the following list gives an indication of the amount of work that needs to
be done to set up an accurate field reproduction.
The steps to be followed are:

Setting up the system.

Drawing the system.
Setting up the well models.
Describing the surface network.
Generating the inflow performances from existing well models.
Generating lift curves for the wells.
Allocating optimally the amount of gas available.
Analysing the results.

2.4.2 Step 1: Setting up the System

At the end of this step we want to have initialised GAP ready for construction
of the network. The steps are:

Start a new file.

Set up the optimisation method.
Set up the units.
Set up the gas injection source.

2.4.2.1Starting a New File

To start a new file, choose File New. This option clears the current screen display
and resets the program workspace to initial values.

2.4.2.2Setting up the Optimisation Method

To set-up the optimisation method, choose Options | Method
Select as Input Parameters:

Prediction: None
One can run predictive models in GAP, either using a simple decline curve model
or by linking to Petroleum Experts MBAL program to perform Material Balance
calculations. Connectivity to Petroleum Experts REVEAL numerical simulator can
also be done.

System type: Production

Water and gas injection systems can also be modelled. When performing a
prediction run, these injection systems can be associated with a production
system to provide voidage replacement (for example) into the producing
reservoirs.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 51

Prediction Method: Pressure and temperature

This allows GAP to perform pressure and temperature drop calculations in
pipeline models.

Optimisation Method: Production

You can also optimise with respect to revenue (in which case you must enter
value parameters here).

Track composition: No
GAP allows fluid compositions to be tracked from the well (or reservoir) level to
the top node. In this example, only black-oil properties will be reported.

Figure 44: System options

The Ok button can now be clicked to finish this step.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

52 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.2.3Setting up the units

To set-up the input and output units, click on Options | Units and select the unit
system you want to use.
Clicking on the cell below the Input or Output column header (defaulted to Oilfield)
will yield a selectable list of available units systems. This example will be worked in
oilfield units throughout.
For more information, please refer to the online help or the GAP manual.

Figure 45: Setting up unit system

Click on Ok to complete this step.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 53

2.4.2.4Setting Gas Injection Sources

If you have gas injection in your system, either for gas lifted wells or for gas injection
into a reservoir during a prediction run, then it is convenient to set the gas injection
parameters at this stage.
GAP maintains a list of gas injection sources with different gas gravities and impurity
levels (and compositions if compositional tracking is enabled). These can be edited
by selecting Options |Injection fluids. When a new file is created, a default entry is
supplied with a specific gravity of 0.7 and no impurities. You may edit this entry, or
add your own in the table.

Figure 46: Gas lift gas properties setting

When you set up your gas lifted well models, you will be able to apply any source in
the list to the well in question.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

54 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.3 Step 2: Drawing the system

By the end of this step, we want to have a basic schematic set up on the main
screen. The equipment data can be entered once the network is in place.

2.4.3.1Adding Wells
To create the wells icon, click on the Add Well icon,
from the toolbar. One may
now click on anywhere on the screen and a well icon will be created at that point.
Whenever an equipment icon is created, a label can be entered. Click OK once the
well name is entered.
The first well will be labelled GL#1 and the second well GL#2. Users are encouraged
to use real well names as labels for their wells.
If you want to move a well icon from one place to another on the screen, then hold
down the |Shift key, point the cursor to the well icon and then move it to the desired
place. Alternatively, select the Move tool from the toolbar and drag the item to the
new location.
A well icon can be deleted by clicking on the Delete button on the toolbar and then
clicking on the well icon that needs to be deleted. If a piece of equipment needs to be
removed from the system temporarily, then it is preferable to Mask the item select
the Mask tool from the toolbar to achieve this.

Figure 47: Two wells have been added to the system

See the GAP manual for more details on user interface functionality.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 55

TIP: Buttons (such as Add Well) can be selected by clicking the right-hand
mouse button in the window area to create a drop-down menu.
Alternatively, the tools are also selectable from the toolbar buttons.

2.4.3.2Tie-backs
Joints are needed to hook up the wells to the tiebacks. Joints (or manifolds) are used
as connection tools in GAP.
To create a joint icon, select the Add Joint option from the toolbar. Click on the
screen at the position where you would like the icon to be placed (above each well
icon, for instance).
The joint to be connected to the well GL#1 will be labelled WH1-GL#1, and the
second joint will be labelled WH2-GL#2. Again, users are encouraged to use real
joint names as labels for their manifolds.
We will also need to create a third joint that will gather the production from the
tiebacks. This will be labelled Collector.
We will also need to create a fourth joint that represents the riser top. This will be
labelled Riser top.
These joints will be connected together with pipes at a later stage.

Figure 48: Joints have been added to the system

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

56 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.3.3The Platform
The platform is represented as a separator.
To create a separator icon, select the Add Separator option from the tool bar. Click
on the required location on the screen and an icon will be created, as above. This
separator will be labelled Platform.

2.4.3.4Pipes/Links

TIP: Pipes are created using the Add Link tool from the toolbar. The reason
for this name is that this tool can also be used to create logical connections
(for example, well to reservoir, or compressor to manifold): whether a pipe or
a logical connection is made depends on the equipment being connected

In order to connect the different equipment, we will now select the Add Link option
from the toolbar.
To hook up the well GL1 to the joint WH1-GL1, situate and click the cursor in the
centre of the well icon GL1, and drag a connected to the WH1-GL1 icon.
Repeat the process with GL2 and WH2-GL2.
Repeat the process between WH1-GL1 and Collector and WH2-GL2 and Collector.
Link the Collector manifold to the Riser Top: this will become the Riser.
Finally, link the Riser top to the Platform.

Figure 49: The whole system

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 57

Note: At this point, you will see that the pipes between the wells and the
collector manifold, and the collector and the riser top, contain an icon to
represent the flow-line data, whereas those between the wells and the
wellhead manifolds, and that between Riser top and Platform do not. This is
because GAP expects the well model to include all equipment up to the well
head, and so does not attempt to model any pressure drops here. Pressure
drops are modelled for all other pipes and depend on a pipeline description,
as described below.

Labelling
The tieback between WH1-GL1 and the collector will be labelled TieOne. The
tieback between WH2-GL2 and the collector will be labelled TieTwo.
To label the tieback between WH1-GL1 and the collector, double-click on click on the
pipeline icon between the joint WH1-GL1 and the collector and enter in the label field
TieOne. Click on Ok to complete. Repeat for the pipe between WH2-GL2 and the
collector. Repeat for the pipe between the collector and the riser, and label this
Riser.

Figure 50: Labelling the pipeline

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

58 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.3.5Other Drawing Options

The user interface is configurable in several ways.

You may want to give a name to the model. For this, click on Options |
System Summary and enter the title Tutorial GAP Example (for example).
This text will now appear as a heading for the system network on the
application screen.
Clicking the right hand mouse button in the application screen and selecting
the Fonts option can change the screen fonts. Clicking the right hand mouse
button in the title can change the title font.
Selecting Icon Sizes from the same drop-down menu can change the sizes of
the icons on the GAP screen. This may be useful if building a large model.

Consult the user manual or online help for more options.

Figure 51: Labelling the system

The basic schematic is now set up, as shown above. The next step is to describe the
equipment comprising the network.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 59

2.4.4 Step 3: Describing the wells

By the end of this step, we want to have each network well modelled accurately.
It is recommended that the system is described from the wells to the top node. There
are various quality checking functions that can be performed at the well level prior to
building the whole system. These will be demonstrated in the following chapters.

TIP (note on entering equipment data): The basic means of entering

data is from the equipment data entry screen. This can be accessed by
double clicking on any equipment icon. The data entry screen consists of a
data entry area and a list of network equipment. Descriptions of several
pieces of equipment can be entered in one edit session by clicking on the
entries in the equipment list to bring up different entry screens.

2.4.4.1Entering Well Data

Well GL1
To enter the equipment data entry screen, double click on the Well GL1 icon. This
will lead you to the Well Data Entry - Summary screen for this well. Enter the
following data:

Label: GL1
This has already been set when the icon was created.
Mask: Include In System
Well Type: Oil Producer (Gas Lifted)
Well file: \Program Files \ Petroleum Experts \ IPM 4.0\ Samples \ Worked
Examples \ GL#1.out
Wells can be modelled using Petroleum Experts PROSPER package, as in this
example. Enter the above PROSPER well file in this field, either typing it
directly or using the Browse button to invoke a file browser.
Model: VLP/IPR intersection

Click on Ok to complete this step, or navigate directly to the next well.

Well GL2
The above comments apply also to Well GL2. Enter the following data: Label: GL2
Mask: Include In System
Well Type: Oil Producer(Gas Lifted)
Well file: \ Program Files \ Petroleum Experts \ IPM 4.0\ Samples \ Worked
Examples \ GL#2.out
Model: VLP/IPR intersection
Click on Ok to complete this step.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

60 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Note: All the data here was entered on the summary screen. Note that the
data entry screen is divided into three parts as indicated from the toggle
buttons at the bottom right of the screen: Summary, Input, and Results.
Click on the input and results buttons and have a look at the various
categories of data that are available for entry or viewing: for example, the
first tab on the input screen allows you to set up the gas lift injection source
for the well.

2.4.4.2Generating IPRs From Existing PROSPER Well Models

By entering a well model file on the summary screen, we have associated this well
with a PROSPER well model stored on disk. We can now import IPR data for the well
directly from PROSPER.
When IPRs are transferred, GAP receives three points that lie on the PROSPER IPR
along with PVT parameters and reservoir pressure. GAP then performs a match to
this data to obtain the PI.
To transfer the well IPRs from the existing PROSPER well models, click now on
Generate | Transfer Well IPRs from PROSPER and then follow the on-screen
instructions. The following screen will be displayed:

Figure 52: Generate error message

This is because we have not selected any well yet. Click on All to select all the wells.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 61

Figure 53: Select wells message

The screen above shows you the selected wells. Click on | Generate to proceed.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

62 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 54: Select layer message

In GAP, you can model multilayer well. Each layer can have their own IPR. In this
screen, you are going to tell GAP, about the IPR that it is about to read, belongs to
which layer. If you have a single layer well, just leave the layer index as it is (layer 1).
Click | OK to continue.
The IPR generation will begin and once started, the IPRs are transferred as a batch
job and no user intervention should be required. When it finishes, you will have to
minimise PROSPER in order to see the message:

Figure 55: IPR generation finish message

Click | OK to go back to the main screen. Double-click on the Well icon to bring up
the well summary screen. Notice that the colour of the box next to the word IPR has
turned green. This indicated that the IPR generation has completed.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 63

Now save the GAP file by clicking on

Example.GAP.

, save the file as Tutorial Gas Lift

Note: IPR parameters can be entered by hand and matched from the
IPR input screen. From the well data entry screen, select the input
button and navigate to the IPR tab. As you will note, this has been
filled in automatically by the above process.

2.4.4.3Importing Existing Lift tables to the Well Models

A well is basically defined by an inflow and an outflow; the inflows (IPRs) have been
already transferred to the wells in the above procedure.
In order to import/assign the VLP to the well GL#1, double-click on the GL#1 well
icon, click on the VLP item (should be red if not valid) and, using the Browse button
select the file \ Program Files \ Petroleum Experts \ Samples \ Worked Examples \
GL#1.VLP. Note clicking on the VLP item on the summary screen is equivalent to
selecting the Input button followed by the VLP tab.

Figure 56: Assign the VLP files to the well

Repeat for the second well with

Samples\Worked Examples\GL#2.VLP.

JANUARY 2004

file:

\Program

Files\Petroleum

Experts\

TUTORIAL GUIDE

64 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Lift curves can be plotted or inspected by clicking on the Plot buttons of the VLP
screen.
Click on Ok to complete this step.

Note: In this case we are simply assigning pre-calculated VLP files to the
lift curve entries of the wells. In general use, you would have to create
these files. Once a PROSPER file has been assigned to the well, lift curves
can be calculated by PROSPER by selecting Generate | Generate Well
VLPs. Alternatively, GAP can import .TPD files (generated by PROSPER) to
make .VLP files. To do this, click on Import on the VLP screen and select
the required import file.

2.4.5 Step 4: Describing the Network

At the end of this step, all the remaining network equipment will be modelled.
In the following discussion we enter true vertical depths (TVDs) with respect to the
platform. Thus we define the platform to be at zero ft TVD such that the collector and
tiebacks are at 500 ft TVD.

2.4.5.1Riser Description
To describe the riser, click on the pipeline icon between the collector and the
platform, labelled Riser. This will lead to the Pipe Data Entry - Summary Screen.
Enter the following data:

Correlation: Petroleum Experts 4

Correlation Coefficients: 1 and 1 (default)

Now go to the input screen (by clicking on the Input button) and enter the following:

Environment: default
This can be used to set up special pipe environmental quantities such as
ambient temperature or heat capacities. The default entries are suitable
for our requirements.

Finally, we enter the physical description of the pipe. Go to the Description tab and
enter the following:

Enter 0 ft for the downstream TVD (Platform)

Point the cursor to the first cell in the second row in the Segment Type
column and select Line pipe:
Length: 500 ft
TVD: 500 ft
ID: 10"
Roughness: 00006" (default)

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 65

Figure 57: Riser description

TIP: If you have real data for your pipeline flows, then it is a good idea to
match the correlation that you are using to this data. To do this, click on the
Match button of the description entry screen and follow the instructions
detailed in the on-line help or the user manual.

TIP: If you do not enter pipe data, then the pipe will be treated as a simple
logical connection between two nodes, and zero pressure drop will be
modelled across it. GAP does not insist that you enter pipe data.

Click on Ok to complete this, or navigate to the next pipe.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

66 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.5.2Description of the tie-back TieOne

The above process detailed for the riser is repeated for the other system pipes.
Correlation: Petroleum Experts 4
Correlation Coefficients: 1 and 1 (default)
Environment: default
The pipeline description is:

Enter 500 ft for the downstream end (Collector)

Select Line pipe in the first cell in the second row in the Segment Type
column.
Length: 1500 ft
TVD: 500 ft
ID: 5"
Roughness: 00006" (default)

Figure 58: Tie One Description

Navigate to the final pipe.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 67

2.4.5.3Description of the tie-back TieTwo

Correlation: Petroleum Experts 4

Correlation Coefficients: 1 and 1 (default)
Environment: default

The pipeline description is:

Enter 500 ft for the downstream end (Collector)

Select Line Pipe in the first cell in the second row in the Segment
Type column.
Length: 1500 ft
TVD: 500 ft
ID: 5"
Roughness: 00006" (default)

Figure 59: TieTwo Description

Now click on Ok to complete this.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

68 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.6 Step 6: Allocating the Amount of Gas Available

We are now in a position to allocate gas lift for optimum production. In this step, we
want to determine (given a total quantity of available gas) the optimum amount of gas
to be injected in each well.
In order to perform an optimisation, click on | Solve Network and then enter different
amount of gas lift gas available.

Figure 60: Specifying cases with different gas lift gas available

Gas available (MMscf/d)

0
3
6
10
20

Click on | Next. For the platform pressure, enter 250 psig.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 69

Figure 61: Specifying the separator pressure

Click on | Next | Calculate. Make sure that the Optimise and Honour Constraints
check box is ticked before the calculation is started. GAP is going to allocate the
available gas to the wells to maximise the oil production. When the calculation is
finished, click on | Main to go back to the main screen.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

70 - 208

Tutorial Guide

2.4.7 Step 7: Analysing the results

To see the effect of the optimised injection of increasing amount of lift gas, click on
Results | Detailed | All Separators and a screen similar to this is displayed:

Figure 62: Allocation results

The natural flow production of this production network system is about 4000 BOPD.
With 6 MMscf/day of gas injection, an optimal allocation would increase the
production to around 4900 BOPD.
We also see from these results that increasing the total gas injection beyond 10
MMscf/day does not increase the amount of production. The maximum production
available from this system is nearly 5000 BOPD.
A plot of oil production against lift gas injection can be displayed by clicking on Plot.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 71

Figure 63: Allocation results

The optimal contribution/distribution between the wells can be viewed by clicking on

Results | Summary | All Wells. Select Gas Injection from the spin box at the top of
the screen to display how the amount of gas injection to each well varies with total
amount available. You may click on Plot for a graphical view. Select as variables:

JANUARY 2004

Gas available: MMscft/d

Y axis variable: Oil produced

TUTORIAL GUIDE

72 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 64: Select variable to plot

Figure 65: Oil produced from each well

TIP: You can view and plot allocation results for any node in the system by
entering its data entry screen in the usual manner and then clicking on the
Results button. The first tab displays the Allocation results. Press Plot to
obtain a plot of these results.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 73

2.4.8 Step 8 Associated Water / Gas Injection Model

In this section a water injection model will be linked to the previously build production
model. A materal balance prediction will be run on this model.

2.4.8.1Set the Production Model

The production model used is the gas lifted production model previously created, to
which a reservoir has been added in order to be able to run a material balance
prediction.
The procedure to add a reservoir has been described in the first GAP example
developed in the tutorial.

Figure 66: Schematic Diagram of the Production Model

In order to be able to run a material balance prediction, we need to set the model to
be a predictive model. To do so, go to Options | Method and select On with the
scrollbar related to Prediction.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

74 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 67: System Option Setting Screen

The relative permeabilities corresponding to the reservoir have been described in the
tank model. Double click on the well, go to Input | IPR | More and set Prediction
Fractional Flow Rel Perm to From Tank Model.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 75

Figure 68: Schematic Diagram of the Production Model

The production model is then set in order to run a material balance prediction.
Use File | Save As to save the work done this far to a GAP file (TUTORIAL GAP
EXAMPLE.GAP) in a suitable directory.

2.4.8.2Create the Water Injection Model

The first step is to create an independent GAP model to model the water injection
system.
Go to File | New to create a new GAP file.
In order to set the model to water injection go to Options | Method and select Water
Injection in the system type scroll bar. As this model is going to be linked with a
production model and as a material balance prediction is going to be run, select On
in the prediction scrollbar. Click OK to validate the data.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

76 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 69: Water Injection Model Settings

The next step is to implement the elements constituting the model : reservoir, water
injection wells, injection lines and injection manifold.
In the main GAP screen, click on the

icon and add a tank.

Using the

icon, add a well.

Using the

icon, add a water injection manifold.

Using the
well.

Using the

icon, add two joints in between the water injection manifold and the

icon, link all the elements together.

The network described on the following figure is obtained.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 77

Figure 70: Schematic Diagram of the Water Injection Network

Use File | Save As to save the work done this far to a GAP file (WaterInj.GAP) in a
suitable directory.
We need now to specify the physical properties of the different elements constituting
the system. The procedure has been explained in detail for each element when the
production network has been created.
The tank needs to be described as the same tank used in the production model.
Select Browse to locate the MBAL file (TUTORIAL GAP EXAMPLE_TANK.MBI).
The water injection well needs to be created using the same procedure described for
the production wells. IPR and VLPs must be generated as for any other type of well.
The injection flow line can be characterised by implementing some pipe data : pipe
length, pipe inside diameter, pipe inlet and outlet TVD as normal.
The following network can then be set up :

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

78 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 71: Schematic Diagram of the Water Injection Network

The red circles around the tank and the well are not present anymore, confirming the
validity of the data input on each element of the system.
Use File | Save As to save the work done this far to a GAP file (WaterInj.GAP) in a
suitable directory.

2.4.8.3Link the Production and the Injection System

The next step is to link the production model and the water injection model.
To do so, open the production model file in GAP. Go to Options | Method and tick
the box corresponding to Associated Injection Models | Water Injection. The
browsing box will then be available. Browse the water injection model previously
built. The path corresponding to this file will appear.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 79

Figure 72: Linking Production and Water Injection Models

Click OK. Both the production and injection models are going to appear in the GAP
main window.
One way of visualising both systems in the GAP main window, go to Window | Tile
Vertically.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

80 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 73: Schematic Diagram of both Production and Water Injection Network

It is now possible to make modifications on each model using the same GAP
session.
Use File | Save As to save the work done this far to a GAP file. Each model will be
saved separately as shown by the following screen. Click Continue if you wish to
save the production and water injection models in the same directories chosen
previously. If this is not the case, simply alter the file path name in the saving screen.

Figure 74: Saving Both Production and Water Injection Systems

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 81

2.4.8.4Running the Material Balance Prediction

A material balance prediction can now be run.
Using the
icon, start the material balance prediction process.
The first screen enables the selection of the prediction starting date, ending date and
step size.

Figure 75: Prediction Screen Settings

Several options are available in order to control the water injection (i.e. or gas
injection).
- target pressure input : this will control the water injection so that the
reservoir pressure never goes under the target pressure entered.
- Voidage replacement input : this will control the water injection taking in
account a voidage replacement scheme, defined by a percentage of
voidage replacement entered by the user.
- Water recycling : this option enables to inject a defined percentage of the
produced water
- Fixed Rate : this option enables to inject a defined rate of water.
In order to respect these constraints, the injection well needs to be set as
controllable.
To do so, select Main what will enable you to come back to GAP main window. Go in
the water injection model window, right click on the well and select Controllable. A
red circle will appear around the well which confirms that the well can be choked
back by the software.
Come back into the prediction run by using again the icon
water injection rate of 3000 STB / d.

JANUARY 2004

: then set a fixed

TUTORIAL GUIDE

82 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 76: Prediction Screen Settings

Click Next to go to the next prediction screen : It summarises the input data for the
tank chosen.

Figure 77: Prediction Screen

Select Next and allocate the amount of gas available for gas lift purposes.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 83

Figure 78: Gas Lift Gas Allocation

Select Next and allocate a separator pressure of 250 psig.

Figure 79: Separator Pressure Allocation

Select Next and allocate a injection manifold pressure of 2000 psig.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

84 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 80: Water Injection Manifold Pressure Allocation

Select Optimise and Honour Constraints and Calculate. This allows the Solve
Network cycle to be performed for each of the 15 time steps requested, while
respecting the constraints implemented.

Figure 81: Material Balance Prediction Calculation Screen

As soon as the calculation is finished, select Main and return to the main GAP
window.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 85

To inspect the results, double click on the tank and select MBAL Results. This
enables accessing the global prediction results for the tank. To check that the
constraint on the water injection rate as been respected, select Plot | Variables and
choose the variables you want to display on the plot, here Average Water Injection
Rate Vs. Time.

Figure 82: Selection of the Variables displayed on the Plot

Select Done and the plot is displayed. It is then noticeable that the constraints on the
water injection rate set previously as been fulfilled.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

86 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 83: Average Water Injection Rate Vs. Time

2.4.8.5Associated Gas Injection Model

A similar procedure can be followed to set up GAP surface network model associated
with a Gas Injection System, as shown on the following screenshots.

Figure 84: Associated Gas Injection Model Settings

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 87

Figure 85: Associated Gas Injection Model Example

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

88 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3 Physics Examples
This section contains the following tutorials:

PROSPER Gas Lift Example:

This example builds a PROSPER well model including a gas lift system. It also
shows how to design the gas lift system.

PROSPER ESP Example:

This example builds a PROSPER well model including an ESP and shows how
to design the ESP.

MBAL Gas History Matching Example:

This example shows how to run the history matching section. It also includes
Fw matching and verification of the water cut using the production prediction.
It is a continuation of the MBAL gas example in the dexterity section.

MBAL Oil History Matching Example:

This example builds an MBAL tank model and shows how to perform the
history matching.

3.1 Gas Lift Example

This example assumes that the user is already familiar with setting well models in
PROSPER.
Objective:
In this model the objective is:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Quality check the test / production data that is available. This quality
check is based on what is possible physically.
Based on the checked data, we select and build our PVT and flow
models.
Design a new gas lift system for this well.
Use QuickLook option of PROSPER for performance diagnosis.

Methodology:
The single well model will be built step by step and at each step any available test /
production data available will be used to validate the model. Also as we progress
through the example, new test data will be added and checked against data
previously entered. In case of conflicts, reasoning on what is possible physically will
be used to RESOLVE this conflict.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 89

Data Available:
PVT Data:
Temperature = 250.0 deg F
Bubble Point Pb = 2200.0 psig
GOR at Pb = 500 scf/stb
Oil FVF at Pb = 1.32 rb/stb
Oil viscosity at Pb= 0.4 cp
Oil gravity = 39.0 API
Gas gravity = 0.798
Water Salinity = 100,000 ppm
Gradient Data:
Data Set 1
Well head pressure = 264.0 psig
Water cut = 20.3 %
Liquid rate = 6161.0 stb/day
GOR = 432 scf/stb
Gas Lift = 0 MMscf/day
Injection depth = 13000 ft
Pressure @ 14800 ft = 3382.0 psig
Data Set 2
Well head pressure = 264.0 psig
Water cut = 20.3 %
Liquid rate = 1100.0 stb/day
GOR = 500 scf/stb
Gas Lift = 1.0 MMscf/day
Injection depth = 8000.0 ft
Pressure @ 1500 ft = 500.0 psig

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

90 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.1.1 Setting Up the Basic Model

We are going to set up a model with the following options:
Fluid
Method
Separator
Emulsions
Hydrates
Water viscosity
Flow type
Well type
Artificial lift method
Type
Predict
Model
Range
Output
Well completion type
Gravel pack
Inflow type
Gas coning

Oil and water

Black oil
Single-stage
No
Disable warning
Use default correlation
Tubing flow
Producer
Gas lift
No friction loss in annulus
Pressure and temperature (offshore)
Rough approximation
Full system
Show calculating data
Cased hole
No
Single branch
No

Figure 66: Setting up the options

Select the Option menu in PROSPER and select the following options:
PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 91

Then select | PVT | Input Data and enter the following data:
Solution GOR
Oil gravity
Gas gravity
Water salinity
(no impurities no gas)

500 scf/stb
39 API
0.798
100000 ppm

Figure 67: Entering PVT parameter

Click the Match Data button on the above dialog and enter the PVT match data that
we have:
Temperature
Bubble point
GOR @ bubble point
Oil FVF @ bubble point
Oil viscosity @ bubble point

JANUARY 2004

250 degree F
2200 psig
500 scf/stb
1.32 rb/stb
0.4 cp

TUTORIAL GUIDE

92 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 68: Entering PVT lab data

Click Done on the above dialog to go back to the PVT input dialog. Then perform the
match calculation by clicking the Regression button and then the Match All button.

Figure 69: PVT matching

After finishing the PVT match, click the Parameters button to view the statistics and
select the best correlation for PVT modeling. Based on the theses regression
parameters (parameter 1, which is multiplier and parameter 2 which is a shift factor)
and standard deviation, select the best model. Ideally the std deviation should be
very small, parameter 1 should equal 1.0 and parameter 2 should equal zero.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 93

Figure 70: Matching parameters

Based on the results, we might want to use the Beggs et al correlation for viscosity
modelling and Glaso for all other properties. Click on | Done | Done to go back to the
main PVT screen. Select the correlations to use in the main PVT screen.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

94 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 71: Select the correlation used

Once this is done, click the Done button to return to the main window.
Now click on the | System | Equipment (Tubing etc.) menu option and input the
equipment data:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 95

Deviation Survey
It is given the deviation survey as follow:
Measured depth (ft)
0
1000
2500
6500
15200

True vertical depth (ft)

0
1000
2405
5322
11500

Figure 72: Deviation survey

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

96 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Down hole Equipment

It is given the down hole equipment as follow:
Type
Xmass tree
Tubing
Casing

Measured depth (ft)

0
14500
15200

Internal diameter (in)

Roughness (in)

3.96
6.00

0.0006
0.0006

Figure 73: Downhole equipment

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 97

Geothermal Gradient
It is given the Geothermal gradient as follow:
Measured depth (ft)
0
15200

Formation temperature
(degree F)
50
250

Overall heat transfer coefficient

8 BTU/hr/ft2/F

Figure 74: Geothermal gradient

Note: There is no surface equipment. Hence we can leave the surface

equipment section alone. Also, leave the heat capacities to the default
values. Click on | Done to exit to the main screen.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

98 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Next click on System | Inflow Performance and select the IPR model and enter the
basic parameters:
Reservoir model
Mechanical / Geometrical skin
Reservoir pressure
Reservoir temperature
Water cut
Total GOR
Relative permeability

Darcy
Enter by hand
3844 psig
250 degree F
20.3 %
500
No

Figure 75: Select reservoir model

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 99

Then enter the IPR data as follow:

Reservoir Permeability
Reservoir thickness
Drainage area
Dietz shape factor
Well bore radius

100 md
100 ft
100 acres
31.6
0.354 ft

Figure 76: Entering parameters for the reservoir model

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

100 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Click on the tab labelled Mech/Geom Skin and a screen prompting for a skin value
will occur. Enter a skin of 0.

Figure 77: Entering skin

Click on the Calculate button to get the following IPR plot:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 101

Figure 78: IPR plot

Click the Main menu item on the IPR plot in order to get back to the main PROSPER
window. Next click on the System | Gaslift Data menu item and enter the gas lift
data as follows.
Gaslift gas gravity
Mole percent H2S
Mole percent H2S
Mole percent H2S
GLR injected
Gas lift method
Maximum Depth of injection
Casing pressure
DP across valve

JANUARY 2004

0.7
0%
0%
0%
0 scf/stb
Optimum Depth of injection
13000 ft
1900 psig
100 psi

TUTORIAL GUIDE

102 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 79: Gaslift specification

We have selected an optimum depth of injection, but want to limit the injection depth
to 13000 feet, which is our packer depth. Also we know that we will have gas lift gas
available at 1900 psig at casing head. Click on Done to complete this and to go back
to the main PROSPER screen.
We should now save the file. For this we click on | File | Save As, and name the file
as GLIFTG.OUT for instance in your working directory.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 103

3.1.2 Matching Test Data and Data Quality Check Methods

The first thing that we will do is to quality check our data. Let us try to use data set
one as defined at the start of the tutorial. The first step would be to check on Data
Set 1. For this, Select the Matching | Correlation Comparison | Tubing menu
option and enter the following data, selecting correlations as highlighted:
Well head pressure
Water cut
Liquid rate
GOR
GOR free
Gas Lift gas rate
Injection depth
Pressure @ 14800 ft
Correlations

264.0 psig
20.3 %
6161.0 stb/day
432 scf/stb
0 scf/stb
0 MMscf/day
13000. ft
3382.0 psig
Duns and Ros Modified
Hagedorn Brown
Fancher Brown
Petroleum Experts 2
Petroleum Experts 3

Figure 80: Correlation comparison

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

104 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Then click the Calculate button and the Calculate button again on the next dialog.
Once we perform the calculations and plot the results, we get the following plot:

Figure 81: Correlation comparison plot

If we notice the bottom right hand corner of the plot, the test data point lies to the left
of the pressure traverse generated by the Fancher Brown correlation.
But the Fancher Brown correlation is a non-slip correlation, so it predicts least
pressure drops. However the plot indicates that our test point requires lesser
pressure drops than Fancher Brown so there is obviously something wrong. This
means that the PVT model we have and the test data are in conflict. If we look at the
test data itself, we can see that we are reporting a GOR of 432 scf/stb at a reservoir
pressure of 3844 psig, whereas the solution GOR is 500 scf/stb and the bubble point
is 2200 psig. One of the items of data is incorrect. However in this case we know the
PVT data are correct so the reported GOR must be wrong. Hence we change the
GOR and redo the calculation.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 105

Figure 82: Change GOR

We will see the following results

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

106 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 83: Results of Changing GOR

Once this change is made, the test data point does fall on the right of the Fancher
Brown correlation, and we can proceed with the use of this test data.
The next step in building the model will be matching a correlation to the test data that
we have and then use the matched correlation in the analysis. We will try to use data
point two for this purpose as defined at the start of this example.
If we use data point two in a similar way to data point one in the Correlation
Comparison dialog, and perform the correlation comparison calculation, we can
check how this test data point compares to the standard correlations. The plots are:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 107

Figure 84: Results of Data point 2

The test data point lies to the right of the Duns and Ross Modified (DRM) correlation.
Like Fancher Brown (FB), the DRM correlation represents the other extreme of the
pressure drop i.e. maximum pressure loses. Thus if a point lies to the right of the
DRM, we are expecting pressure drops greater than DRM. The other point to note is
that for the same well head pressure and IPR, with gas lift we are getting lower flow
rates than without gas lift as indicated by data point one. It could be that the data
point is wrong or the PVT data are incorrect. However we already know that our PVT
data are correct, so the data point must be incorrect.
Since we already have another test data point (Data set 1) we will match the
correlations to that data point. The matching process consists in reproducing the test
data point by matching the two components of pressure drop i.e. gravity and friction
by using multipliers (parameter 1 and parameter 2) for each correlation. The
correlation that matches best will selected to model flow in the tubing. Select the
Matching | Matching | IPR/VLP (Quality Check) and enter test data point 1 in the
screen as shown below:
Well head pressure
Tubing head temperature
Water cut
Liquid rate
GOR
GOR free
Gas Lift gas rate
Injection depth
Pressure @ 14800 ft

JANUARY 2004

264.0 psig
132.8 degree F
20.3 %
6161.0 stb/day
500 scf/stb
0 scf/stb
0 MMscf/day
13000. ft
3382.0 psig

TUTORIAL GUIDE

108 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 85: Entering the match data

Then click the Match button and select the following correlations on the next dialog:

Hagerdorn Brown
Petroleum Experts 2
Petroleum Experts 3

Figure 86: Selecting correlations to match

Then click on Match button to perform the matching calculation. Once we have
performed the match calculations, the new match parameters (seen by pressing the
button Statistics) are:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 109

Figure 87: Matched parameters

We will use Petroleum Experts 2 as the vertical lift correlation.

We have now matched VLP to the test data. We should next look at the IPR. We
must make sure that the IPR can supply the rate that we are getting. We can first use
the tuned VLP correlation to calculate the bottomhole flowing pressure for the same
conditions as the test data (same rate, water cut, GOR, well head pressure, etc.).
Since IPR is a plot of bottom hole flowing pressure vs. liquid rate, we have a test
point on the IPR now, which is the test liquid rate vs. the calculated bottomhole
flowing pressure using the tuned VLP correlation.
All these can be done in the VLP/IPR matching section. From the correlation
matched parameters screen, click on | Done | Done, you will go back to the VLP/IPR
matching main screen. From there click on the button IPR.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

110 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 88: Calculate the BHFP

The purpose of this screen is to calculate the bottomhole flowing pressure for the test
conditions. First we make sure that the right tubing correlation is selected. In our
case, we are going to use Petroleum Experts 2. Then hit on Calculate to start the
calculation. The results of the calculation will be shown and the calculated
bottomhole flowing pressure will be shown.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 111

Figure 89: Calculated BHFP for the test rate

We can now hit on IPR to go to the IPR section.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

112 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 90: IPR section

Hit on Calculate to plot both the tuned VLP and IPR on the same plot and compare
them to the test data.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 113

Figure 91: Comparison of the current IPR model with the test data

The square box is the test point. The VLP and IPR should be intersecting at that
point. The errors are displayed on the right of the screen. We can now adjust the IPR
model to reduce the errors.
There is no fixed method to adjust the IPR. It depends on the conditions. For
instance, if we are uncertain about the reservoir pressure, we can adjust the reservoir
pressure. If we think that the value of skin has changed, we can adjust the skin value.
In this exercise, we are going to change the reservoir pressure.
Click on Finish to close the plot window. Change the reservoir pressure in the IPR
main screen to 3876 psig and hit on | Calculate again. We will see that the error has
been reduced to a very small value and we have matched the IPR.
This finishes our matching of test data and data quality section. Go back to the main
screen, and save the file as GliftG1.out.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

114 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.1.3 Designing a New Gas Lift Well

Note: we will design for water cut of 50%. The gas available is 6 MMscf/day @ 1900
psig injection pressure at the top node.
Select the Design | Gas Lift | New Well menu item. Supply the following input data.
We are asking for the gas lift valves to be casing sensitive. We also have selected
the valves to be designed in such a way that they open at casing pressure:
Design rate method
Maximum liquid rate
Maximum gas available
Maximum gas during unloading
Flowing top node pressure
Unloading top node pressure
Operating injection pressure
Kick off injection pressure
Desired dP across valve
Maximum depth of injection
Water cut
Minimum spacing
Static gradient of load fluid
Minimum transfer dP
Maximum port size
Safety for closure of last unloading valve
Valve type
Min CHP decrease per valve
Valve settings
Dome pressure correlation above 1200 psig
Check rate conformance with IPR
Vertical lift correlation
Surface pipe correlation
Use IPR for unloading
Orifice sizing on

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Calculate from max production

20000 stb/day
6 MMscf/day
6 MMscf/day
250 psig
250 psig
1900 psig
1900 psig
200 psi
13500 ft
50%
500 ft
0.45 psi/ft
25%
32/64 ths inch
0 psi
Casing sensitive
20 psi
All valves Pvo = gas pressure
Yes
Yes
Petroleum Experts 2
Dukler Flannigan
No
Calculated dP at orifice

Tutorial Guide 115

Figure 92: Gas lift design

Once the valve type has been selected, press Done. Then generate the gas lift
performance curve by clicking the Get Rate button and then the Plot button at the
top of the screen. This generated performance curve is as shown:

Figure 93: Gas lift performance curve

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

116 - 208

Tutorial Guide

The performance curve of a gas lift design plots the oil rate produced with increased
gas injection rates. To understand the shape of this curve, we will appeal to the
notion that we do gas lift to decrease the pressure loss in the tubing string by
decreasing the gravity component of pressure drop. The greater is the amount of gas
injected, the lighter will be the fluid column.
However as the amount of gas injected increases, we also will be increasing the
other component of pressure drop, i.e. the friction. A stage reaches in injection when
any further increase in gas injection will increase friction component more than it will
decrease gravity component. After this stage any increase in gas injection will
decrease production rates. Thus the PC curve will go up and then come down as
shown above and will have a maximum oil production rate and the gas injection
required corresponding to this rate will be optimum. If we look at the performance
curve we see that at a gas lift rate of 6 MMscf/day the oil production is around 4440
stb/day. The maximum oil production of 4600 stb/day occurs for gas lift rate of
approximately 9.3 MMscf/day. From this plot PROSPER determines the gas lift
required for maximum oil production. This is the optimum gas lift rate for this well. In
case the available gas is higher than the optimum gas required, the program will only
inject the optimum gas into the well, which is 9.3 MMscf/day in this case. In case the
available gas is less than optimum gas, the actual available gas value will be used. If
we proceed with design at this stage by pressing the Design on the following screen,
PROSPER will design this case using 6.0 MMscf/day of gas.

Figure 94: Gas lift design

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 117

To see a plot of the Gas lift design click the Plot button at the bottom of the above
screen and the following plot will appear.

Figure 95: Gas lift design plot

If we press Finish we will exit the plot and return to design screen. On this screen if
we press the Results button, the following screen with the results of gas lift design
will appear. On the screen given below if you press Calculate, PROSPER will
calculate the dome pressure settings for you.

Figure 96: Gas lift design results

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

118 - 208

Tutorial Guide

This finishes the gas lift design. Go back to the main screen, and save the file as
GliftG2.out.

3.1.4 Using QuickLook as a Diagnostic Option to Check the

Gas Lift Design

Note: In this section we are going to use the QuickLook option as a

diagnostic tool and see if the existing gas lift set up is performing as per
design. We will use the design of the previous section, selected on the basis
of a 50% future water cut and try to do the study for 20.3 % current water
cut.

We will start from the Matching QuickLook menu option. To start with let us say
we have current flowing conditions as per data set one defined at the start of the
tutorial.
To start with let us say we have the following oil rate, water cut, pressure, lift gas rate
and temperature data for the well:
Tubing head pressure
Tubing head temperature
Liquid rate
Water cut
Total gas rate
Gas injection rate
Casing head pressure

264 psig
160.7 degree F
6161 stb/day
20.3 %
6.555 MMscf/day
4.1 MMscf/day
1750 psig

Figure 97: QuickLook entry screen

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 119

To enter the valve data, press the Valves button on the above screen. The following
screen appears:

Figure 98: Valve depth specification

We can transfer the valve data from the design we have just done by pressing
Transfer on the above screen and pressing Gas Lift Design on the screen below.
Note that this is the gas lift design got for the case when we fixed oil production to
4000 stb/day in the previous section.

Figure 99: Transfer valve data

Next click on Done | Calculate | Calculate | OK | Plot to get the following diagnostic
plot:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

120 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 100: QuickLook calculation plot

To analyze this plot, let us examine the QuickLook principle. In this method we
calculate well pressure traverses for both tubing and casing pressure in two
directions: one beginning from the wellhead and going to the sand face, and the
other going from the sand-face up to the wellhead.
To change the assumptions, we must understand the factors that affect these
traverses.
The downward gradients are based on measured data (THP, CHP, gas and liquid
flow rates, WC, GOR), while the upward gradients depend on the inflow (in the case
of the tubing pressure) and on the pressure drop across the orifice (as regards the
casing pressure).
If our assumptions about the gas lift rates, oil flows etc., are correct, the two pressure
traverses should be identical. If not we have to change these assumptions until we
get identical traverses.
In Figure 100 we see that the tubing traverse calculated starting from the flowing
bottomhole pressure is higher than the measured tubing traverse. This suggests that
the inflow potential is too high, so the reservoir pressure should be lower than
considered. Lets decrease the reservoir pressure down to 3050 psi.
The QuickLook calculated is now:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 121

Figure 101: QuickLook calculation plot 2

The tubing curves now overlap.

Next let us see how pressure traverse curves compare in the casing above the
orifice.
The calculated upward casing traverse is now smaller than the measured one. This
suggests that the pressure drop across the orifice for some reason (like scaling) has
increased. So, in order to match the two gradients, a smaller orifice diameter can be
chosen. Let us decrease it to 22/64 and re-perform QuickLook calculations, the plot
then looks like below:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

122 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 102: QuickLook calculation plot 3

These results are good and based on this we can predict the oil flow rates and gas
injection rates fairly. This method also can be used to trouble shoot and check the
performance of operating wells, if we have down-hole and reliable flow
measurements available.
Save the file as GliftG3.out.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 123

3.2 PROSPER ESP Example

124 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.2.1 Setting up the Basic Model

Run PROSPER and go to the Option menu in PROSPER and select the following
options:

Figure 103: Setting the model option

In this screen we have specified:

The handled fluid is an oil

PVT behavior will be modeled as a Black oil, with a single stage separation
scheme.
This is an offshore well
We want to do temperature predictions using rough approximation method.
The fluid flows through the tubing
No emulsion forms
For the moment we have no ESP in the system; the reason will be given
further on.
It is a cased hole with no gravel pack.
We also do not have gas coning and the inflow is simple and not multilateral.

Next in the main screen go to the PVT | Input Data and fill in the PVT data as
indicated in the available data section.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 125

Figure 104: PVT input data

Since we do have lab data, we should match them to the existing Black oil
Correlation. Enter the PVT match data that we have by clicking the Match Data
button on the above screen. Enter the match data as follows:

Figure 105: PVT match data

Once you have entered measured data, go back to the previous dialog by clicking the
Done button and perform the matching calculation by clicking on the Regression
button and then the Match All button. The program does a regression analysis on all
JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

126 - 208

Tutorial Guide

the entered data with all standard black oil correlations that are available in
PROSPER.

Figure 106: PVT matching

To display the regression parameters and standard deviations for all the correlations,
click on Parameters.

Figure 107: Match parameters

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 127

Based on the these regression parameters (parameter 1, which is multiplier and

parameter 2 which is a shift factor) and standard deviation select the best model.
Ideally the std deviation should be very small, parameter 1 should equal 1.0 and
parameter 2 should equal zero. In this case we select Beggs et al correlation for
viscosity modelling and Standing for all other proprties. Once this is done, click the
Main button to go back to the main window. Please set the correlations in the main
PVT screen (see below)

Figure 108: Choose the correlation

After finishing the PVT match i.e. providing the model with an adequate fluid
description, we have to specify our well bore. To do so in the main screen, select the
System | Equipment (Tubing etc.) menu item and input the equipment data as
follows:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

128 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Deviation Survey:
It is given the deviation survey as follow:
Measured depth (ft)
0
463.3
2399.9
3450.1
4649.9
5200.1
6899.9
7450.1
8687.7

True vertical depth (ft)

0
463.3
2368.4
3256.6
4100.1
4467.5
5673.9
6079.7
7280.2

Figure 109: Deviation survey

This survey is taken as the basis for calculating true depths, in the model. It is
recommended to use zero of this survey as the reference depth for all further entries.
If we use the zero of deviation survey as the reference depth, then it is easier to enter

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 129

well bore data as all the depths indicated in the well bore data refer to deviation
survey. Once we have supplied the deviation survey, the well bore details are
entered as follows:
Down-hole equipment:
It is given the down hole equipment as follow:
Type
Xmas tree
Tubing
SSSV
Tubing
Restriction
Tubing
Casing
Casing

MD (ft)
59.4
689.0
7660.8
7677.2
7860.9
8169.3

Tubing ID (in)
3.96
2.13
3.96
2.31
3.96
-

Tubing OD (in)
4.5
4.5
4.5
-

Casing ID (in)
8.68
8.68
8.68
8.68
6.18

Casing

8687.7

3.96

All roughness of tubing / casing = 0.0006 in

Figure 110: Downhole equipment

The data regarding tubing outside diameter will be used further on, when the ESP
option will be selected.
Next we want to specify the geothermal gradient and the overall heat transfer
coefficient, as we are doing temperature predictions as well.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

130 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Geothermal Gradient:
It is given the Geothermal gradient as follow:
Measured depth (ft)
59.4
8687.7

Formation temperature
(degree F)
60
205

Overall heat transfer coefficient

3 BTU/hr/ft2/F

Figure 111: Geothermal gradient

Note: There is no surface equipment. Leave the heat capacities to default values.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 131

After specifying the well bore we will want to build an inflow model into the well bore.
So, next select the System | Inflow Performance menu item and select the IPR
model and enter the IPR data as shown in the following dialogs:
Reservoir model
Reservoir pressure
Reservoir temperature
Water cut
Total GOR
Relative permeability

PI Entry
2468 psig
205 degree F
6%
392
No

Figure 112: Selecting the IPR model

We have selected the simple PI model for the Inflow Performance. For this model to
supply input data if we click on the Input Data button of this screen, we get the
following screen and we can enter a PI of 7.19 STB/day/psi.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

132 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 113: Entering PI value

Click the Calculate button this should plot the following IPR:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 133

Figure 114: IPR plot

3.2.2 Matching Test Data and Data Quality Check Methods

The first thing that we will do is to try to quality check our data. Let us try to use data
set 1 defined at the start of the tutorial.
At this point let us recall that for ESP models for standard traverse calculations,
PROSPER takes the sand face as the first node for calculations. But in our test data
we have a wellhead pressure as reference and do not know our bottom hole
pressure. The other fact is that our test point is above the ESP, and for flow
correlations, in the tubing above ESP the flow is like natural flow but with a higher
bottom hole pressure. This is why, when building the basic model, we did not select
the ESP pump option.
After matching we can revert to ESP option.
Always considering no artificial lift (by selecting the None option for the Artificial Lift
Method in the Options dialog), the first step would be to check how this test point
compares to the gradient plot. Select the Matching | Correlation Comparison |
Tubing menu item and supply the following data, selecting correlations as
highlighted.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

134 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 115: Correlation comparison

Once we perform calculations (by clicking the Calculate button and then the
Calculate button again on the next dialog) and plot the results (by clicking the Plot
button), we get the following plot:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 135

Figure 116: Gradient plot

Figure 116 shows that in the region at the bottom right of the plot, the test data point
lies on the right of the Pressure traverse generated by the Duns and Ros Modified
(DRM) correlation.
Now DRM correlation gives maximum pressure drop as already discussed in the
previous gas lift example. But since the plot indicates that our test point requires
higher pressure drop than DRM, there is something wrong. This means that the PVT
model we have and the test data are in conflict. One of the two sets of information is
incorrect. However, in this case let us say we know that our PVT data is correct so
there are inconsistencies in the test point. The first thing that we can do is go back to
the source of the test data and check again for the numbers. In this case we are
reporting a water cut of 6% which is quite low for normal cases where we are thinking
of going to artificial lift. As a matter of fact the water cut in this example is 34%. If we
make this change to the input data of the Tubing Correlation Comparison and repeat
the correlation comparison we get the following plot:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

136 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 117: Gradient plot 2

Once this change is made the test data point does fall on the left of DRM correlation,
and we can proceed with the use of this test data point.
The next step in building the model will be matching a correlation to the test data that
we have. The matching process consists in reproducing the test data point by
matching the two components of pressure drop i.e. gravity and friction by using
multipliers (parameter 1 and parameter 2) for each correlation. The correlation that
matches best will be selected to model flow in the tubing. Select the menu item
Matching | Matching | IPR/VLP (Quality Check) and enter test data 1 in the screen
as shown below (note that we will now use 34% for the water cut rather than the 6%
in the original data):

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 137

Figure 118: VLP/IPR matching data

Then perform matching by clicking the Match button. Select the following correlations
from the list:

Hagedorn Brown
Petroleum Experts 2
Petroleum Experts 3

Then click the Match button again to calculate the match parameters. Once we have
performed the match calculations, the new match parameters (seen by pressing the
Statistics button) are:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

138 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 119: VLP matched parameters

We are using Petroleum Experts 2 as the vertical lift correlation note that we will make
the selection later in the tutorial so make a note of which one to use. This finishes our
matching test data and data quality check section. At the end of this save the file as
espg.out. At this stage remember to change the lift method to ESP in the option
screen.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 139

3.2.3 Designing an ESP for this Problem

Note: We will design for a water cut of 60% and a delivering a design rate of
9000 STB/day against a wellhead pressure of 100 psig. We want the pump
placed at a depth of 7660 feet. A cable roughly around 7710 feet will be
needed to go up to the pump.

Select on the main screen menu Design | ESP | Design.

After entering the tubing outside diameters in the Downhole Equipment screen,
supply the following input data. We will start with the assumption that no gas
separation is needed at the pump inlet.
Pump depth
Operating frequency
Maximum OD
Length of cable
Gas separator efficiency
Design rate
Water cut
Top node pressure
Motor power safety margin
Pump wear factor
Pipe correlation
Tubing corrlation

7660 ft
60 Hz
6 in
7710 ft
0%
9000 stb/day
60 %
100 psig
0%
0
Beggs and Brill
Petroleum Experts 2

Figure 120: ESP design parameter

Press the Calculate button on the above dialog and the Calculate button again on
the next dialog and PROSPER will calculate the pump head, power etc as shown
below:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

140 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 121: ESP design calculation

Once pump calculations are finished, check the validity of the assumption of no gas
separation at pump inlet by using the Dunbar plot. The plot is activated by pressing
the Sensitivity button and the following plot appears:

Figure 122: Sensitivity plot

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 141

The different lines on the Dunbar plot are for different levels of gas separation
efficiency at pump intake. The separation efficiency assumed is okay for this criterion
if it the point of operation falls above the Dunbar line. In this case, the pump
operating point with zero separation at inlet (shown by the square symbol) falls above
the Dunbar line, which implies that we do not need a gas separator at the pump inlet.
In case it was otherwise, we should use a separation efficiency in the ESP Design
input dialog above and repeat the pump calculations until we get the pump intake
point above the Dunbar line.
After checking for gas separation requirements, we proceed with the design by
pressing the Finish button on the plot, the Done button followed by the Design
button and we should be in the following dialog:
The design at this stage consists in determining an adequate pump, motor and cable
that can handle this load.

Figure 123: Selecting the suitable pump, motor, and cable

Note that you should have built your pump, motor and cable database by now.
If you have not, go to Design | ESP | Pump database and you will get the following
screen:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

142 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 124: Editing the pump database

On this screen use Import | Append to import a pump database. There are some
databases provided with the program in the \samples\PROSPER directory. You can
load the motor and cable databases in a similar fashion.
The design screen will select from the database, the equipment that can do the job.
We will select one combination out of these. In the first selection we select the pump,
then the motor and finally the cable.

Figure 125: Selecting pump

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 143

From the available pumps, let us select the REDA SN8500 model. Next we will select
a motor for this pump as shown below:

Figure 126: Selecting motor

From the motor selection let us select the Reda 540_90-0_Int 400HP 2116V 113A
motor. Next we will select a cable from the possible ones.

Figure 127: Selecting cable

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

144 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Based on the selection available we select #1 Copper as our cable. This stage
completes the ESP design and the results are displayed in the same screen in terms
of current required etc as shown below:

Figure 128: ESP design details

We have selected a REDA SN8500 pump with 126 stages to do the job. If we click
on the Plot button it display the pump performance curve also indicating the limits of
operation of this pump.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 145

Figure 129: ESP pump plot

The point on this plot shows the design operating point on the pump performance
plot. This finishes a new ESP design.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

146 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.2.4 Using ESP QuickLook as a Diagnostic Option to check

an Existing ESP Design

Note: In this section we are going to use the QuickLook option as a

diagnostic tool. We will see how we can monitor the performance of an ESP
for an intermediate water cut that has been designed on the basis of 60%
future water. What we have is reliable down-hole measured data for pump
intake and discharge pressure in this case. A liquid rate of 6523 STB/day
with a well head pressure of 345 psig has been observed for this well.

We will start by selecting the menu option Matching | QuickLook. The

measurements indicate a water cut of 60%. The pump is same as designed in the
previous section. We will assume that the pump runs at 60 Hz still has no wear
factor. On the basis of these measurements we can supply the data as shown below:
Tubing head pressure
Liquid rate
Water cut
Produced GOR
Static bottom hole pressure
Pump depth
Operating frequency
Length of cable
Gas separation efficiency
Number of stages
Pump wear factor

345 psig
6523 stb/day
60 %
392 scf/stb
2468 psig
7660 ft
60 Hz
7710 ft
0%
126
0 (fraction)

Downhole data:
Pump discharge pressure (MD = 7660 ft) = 2725 psig
Pump suction pressure (MD = 7660 ft) = 1025 psig

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 147

Figure 130: ESP QuickLook

Once we have given the measured pressure data and the flow rates, through the
pump, to start QuickLook press the Calculate button, the Calculate button again and
then the Plot button. You should get the following plot:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

148 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 131: ESP QuickLook plot

To analyse this plot, let us examine the QuickLook principle. In this method we
calculate well pressure traverses in two directions, one beginning from the well head
and going to the sand-face, and the other going from the sand face up all the way to
the wellhead. In case our assumptions about the pump depth and oil flows etc. are
correct, the two pressure traverses should be identical and overlap. If not we have to
change these assumptions until we get identical traverses.
To start the process of diagnosis, we can think of the pump as a tie point for the
system, where the inflow up to the pump and the lift above the pump are tied with
each other. For a given wellhead pressure, the pump discharge pressure depends
only on the weight and frictional loss of the fluid above the pump. In our case we see
that, for the measured well head pressure, the pump discharge pressure we got is
slightly lower than that measured as indicated by the circle area on the above plot.
The section of the well can be considered as a naturally flowing well with bottomhole
pressure equal to the pump discharge pressure.
So, in order to match the downward discharge pressure point with the measured one,
we can go back to the simple well configuration (choosing No Artificial Lift from the
Option screen) and tune the flow correlations using the measured data at the pump
discharge as test data:
Tubing Head Pressure:
Tubing Head Temperature:
Water Cut:
Liquid Rate:
Gauge Depth:
Gauge Pressure:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

345 psig
174 deg F
60 %
6523 STB/day
7660 ft
2725 psig

Tutorial Guide 149

GOR:
GOR free:

392 scf/STB
0 scf/STB

Enter these data in the VLP/IPR Matching screen:

Figure 132: VLP/IPR Matching screen

Then perform the Correlation Comparison to quality check the test data. The test
data point is within the limits given by the Duns and Ros Modified and Fancher and
Brown correlations, as shown in the following plot:

Figure 133: Correlation Comparison

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

150 - 208

Tutorial Guide

The choice of the correlation is done following the guidelines given by the PROSPER
manual.
Now, back in the VLP/IPR screen, we click on Match, choose the Petroleum Experts
2 correlation and click on Match again.

Figure 134: VLP/IPR Matching

The match parameters are calculated. Clicking on Statistics, the match parameters
are displayed:

Figure 135: Match parameters

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 151

At this point, it is possible to re-select the ESP Artificial Lift Method from the Option
menu and go to the QuickLook section.
Click on CalculateCalculate, then Plot. The following QuickLook plot is displayed:

Figure 136: ESP QuickLook plot

As it is shown, now the discharge pressure point on the measured downward

gradient is matched.
Now the pump inlet pressure must be matched. Figure 136 shows that the dP across
the pump calculated in the downward gradient is bigger than the measure one (given
by the distance between the two blue squares). The reason of this could be, for
example, the pump wear, which decreases the pump performance.
So, lets choose a pump wear factor of 0.11 to be entered in the QuickLook main
screen:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

152 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 137: ESP QuickLook main screen

Then CalculateCalculate and Plot. The following QuickLook plot is displayed:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 153

Figure 138: ESP QuickLook plot

The downward gradient is now matched.

All what we have to do now is to match the upward gradient to this. The upward
gradient is calculated starting from the bottomhole pressure given by the IPR. So, it
depends on the inflow.
In order to match the upward calculated gradient, let us go to the IPR section and
decrease the PI to 6.3 STB/day/psi. Then, back in the QuickLook section, calculate
and display again the QuickLook plot:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

154 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 139: ESP QuickLook plot

This match is acceptable. This method can thus be used to trouble shoot and check
the performance of operating wells, if we have down-hole and reliable flow
measurements available.
Save this file as espg1.out.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 155

3.3 MBAL Gas History Matching Example

This tutorial example is designed to provide a continuation of the step by step
introduction to the MBAL program, following on from the MBAL Gas Reservoir
Example. The emphasis here is on the steps required to match a production history
using a material balance model to estimate the original gas in place within a dry gas
reservoir.
The driving mechanisms within the reservoir will be identified, increasing
understanding of the reservoirs potential production. Relative permeabilities for gas
and water will be estimated by matching fractional water production to simulated
water saturation and tested by performing a prediction calculation.

3.3.1 STEP 1 : Initialise MBAL

Start the MBAL program by running MBAL.EXE, which can be found in the PETEX
directory (default C:\Program Files\Petroleum Experts\IPM 4.0). See the MBAL manual
for more details on how to start MBAL.
Check that the current version of MBAL has been loaded. Select Help | About
MBAL Package to check the version number.
Select File | Open to open the file created from the MBAL Gas Reservoir Example in
the Dexterity section - GASRES.MBI. Immediately save this as a new file
(GASRES2.MBI) using File | Save As.

3.3.2 STEP 2 : Add Production History Data

Production history data is entered and an aquifer model is initialised in this section.
Enter the production history shown below in Table 1 by selecting Input | Tank Data
and selecting the Production History tab. This data is also contained in an EXCEL
spreadsheet named GASRES2.XLS and the data (select cells A5:F25) may be
copied and pasted into MBAL using a right mouse click to select Copy within
EXCEL and then Paste in MBAL. Alternatively the standard shortcuts Ctrl C and
Ctrl V may be used to copy and paste data.
After evaluating the possibility of the existence of an aquifer, the following data can
be used as a starting point:
Model
System
Reservoir thickness
Reservoir radius
Outer / Inner radius ratio
Encroachment angle
Aquifer permeability

JANUARY 2004

Hurst-van Everdingen Modified

Radial Aquifer
100 ft
5000 ft
5
360 degree
20 md

TUTORIAL GUIDE

156 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.3.3 STEP 3 : Material Balance Introduction

A very brief introduction to the material balance method is included here.
The governing principal is mass conservation as the reservoir is produced. This may
be restated as:
The volume of material removed by production at reservoir conditions is
replaced by fluid/formation expansion and possibly aquifer inflow
The equation below represents this volume (material) balance at reservoir conditions
(pressure and temperature):
F = N.Et + We
F

is the produced fluid volume at reservoir conditions. Good production history

and PVT is required to estimate this quantity.
N is the original oil/gas volume in place, which can be estimated by geological
investigations.
Et is the expansion of the reservoir fluid and water, and formation rock
compaction following the depressurisation of the reservoir as it is produced.
Good reservoir pressure history and PVT is required to estimate Et. Note
that for oils, good PVT (Bo) above the bubble point is especially important,
since the compressibility of undersaturated liquid oils is relatively small.
We is the volume of aquifer water entering the initial reservoir volume.
In general, if good PVT and production history is available, F and Et are reasonably
well known. Also, an initial estimate of N can usually be made. The question then is
to refine correlations for We and the value of N to match the production data. The
material balance equation above can be rearranged to perform non-linear regression
on N and aquifer model parameters.
The quality of the PVT and production history data is vital to the material balance
calculations. However for simplicity, this example uses an unmatched Black Oil PVT
and a fictitious production history.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 157

3.3.4 STEP 4 : Material Balance Matching

The production history data will be matched to a material balance model using
judgment and non-linear regression. The drive mechanisms within the reservoir and
the Original Gas In Place (OGIP) will be estimated.
The History Matching starts considering no aquifer is present. So, the Tank Input
data screen, we choose No Aquifer.
It is suggested that the MBAL window is made full screen to aid viewing. Select
History Matching | All. Three screens appear graphically illustrating the fit of the
material balance model to the production data and reservoir pressure.

Figure 140: History matching plots

The material balance model is defined by the correlations and parameters entered in
the Input | Tank Data screens. All of these may be altered at any time to improve
the fit, but only the OGIP and the aquifer model parameters may be modified by nonlinear regression. This reflects the observation that these are generally the least well
known variables.
It is very important that a systematic methodology is followed, based on an
understanding of the material balance model, rather than a series of regressions. It
should be understood that the regression solutions are not necessarily unique and
work better if their values prior to regression are not too far from a solution.
Therefore the interpretation of the graphical representations of the material balance
model must be used to refine the model before regression should be used.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

158 - 208

Tutorial Guide

An aquifer model is present, but is providing no water (We = 0). Highlight the
Graphical Method window by clicking the left mouse button within its title bar, and
select Method | Cole ((F-We)/Et). Recall the material balance equation (F-We)/Et =
N (F/Et = N, when We = 0). If the material balance model was well fitted to the
production data then the Cole plot should be a horizontal line with a value equal to N
(OGIP).

Figure 141: Graphical Method showing Cole Plot

The initial rise indicates an increasing apparent value for N. The expansion (Et) of
the reservoir fluids/formation alone is not sufficient to maintain the reservoir pressure.
There is more energy in the reservoir than the current material balance calculation is
predicting. These equivalent statements imply the reservoir pressure is being
maintained by another mechanism, the likely candidate is an aquifer.
An aquifer model can be added to the model, based on the initial estimates given in
the introduction:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 159

Figure 142: Initializing an aquifer model

Also note that the rise of the Cole curve does not continue, but levels out and then
starts to fall at later times. This can be interpreted as the aquifer inflow slowing at
around data point 5 and stopping near data point 10. This means that around this
time the outer boundary of the aquifer has been felt.
At early times, the well will not see the aquifer. Therefore the early values on the
Cole curve indicate minimum values for N. Select Display | Scales and set the Yaxis bottom value to 600 Bscf and select Done. An extrapolation of the Cole curve
towards the Y axis is difficult, emphasising the importance of early data recording.
However, an extrapolation to the Y-axis would suggest a value for N larger than 600
Bscf, perhaps nearer 750 Bscf.
Next, the value for N shall be updated to 750 Bscf and the aquifer model will be
started. Highlight the Analytical Method window and select Regression from the
menu toolbar.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

160 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 143: Modified OGIP and Outer/Inner Radius

Set the Gas in Place to 750 Bscf and the Outer/Inner Radius to 5 and select Done to
display the recalculated material balance.

Figure 144: History matching plots

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 161

From the Graphical Method screen (top right of Figure 144) it is clear that the aquifer
that has been added is too strong, it is providing too much energy to the system. The
extrapolation of the Cole curve to the Y-axis suggests a possibly reduced OGIP (N).
Look at the WD function Plot screen (top left of Figure 144). This shows a
dimensionless time (tD) and dimensionless aquifer inflow volume (Q). The elbow of
this curve occurs at the point where the aquifer cannot supply additional water; the
boundary of the aquifer has been felt. Recall that the initial Cole curve suggested
this occurred between data points 5 and 10.
Move the cursor within the WD function Plot screen and double click left. This alters
the Outer/Inner Radius parameter of the aquifer model, altering the displays in the
other Method screens. In particular, notice that the Analytical Method gas
production/pressure curve moves. By double left clicking in the WD function plot
screen, try to select an aquifer Outer/Inner Radius parameter that shows a
reasonable fit to the production displayed in the Analytical Method screen. An
Outer/Inner Radius of about 2.1 works quite well, but the elbow on the WD function
Plot is not between data points 5 and 10.
Highlight the Analytical Method window and select Regression from the toolbar. Set
the Outer/Inner Radius to 2.1 in the start (left) column and select Done to view the
results.

Figure 145: Modified Outer/Inner Radius

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

162 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 146: History matching plots

The data points at very early times may only be reflecting responses from regions in
the vicinity of the well and dont necessarily show responses of the entire reservoir,
therefore the material balance would not be expected to show the complete OGIP
until the pressure signal from the producing well has had time to permeate the entire
reservoir. It is possible that the Graphical Method screen is showing this effect at
early times. The signal time to permeate the reservoir can be estimated from the
diffusivity and reservoir dimensions. The diffusivity, D=k/c (ft2s-1) relates the
radial pressure response at a distance r and time t from the well source by the
equation Pexp(-r2/4Dt).
For this example the first data point shown (point 2) is one year after the start of
production and can probably be expected to reflect the whole reservoirs response,
suggesting that the aquifer model still requires some fine tuning. Note also that the
elbow of the WD Function Plot is not reflecting correctly the time at which the aquifer
energy is exhausted.
However, recognising the points noted above, the material balance model is now not
too far from being consistent with the production data and non-linear regression may
be used to refine the model parameters.
Highlight the Analytical Method window and click on Regression. Check the Gas in
Place, Outer/Inner Radius, Encroachment Angle and Aquifer Permeability boxes to
regress on.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 163

Figure 147: Select variables to regress on

Select Calc to start the regression. When it finishes, copy the Best Fit values to the
Start values by clicking the left pointing arrows (Figure 147). You may select the
left pointing arrow between the Start and Best Fit headings to copy all of the
regressed values. Select Done to view the changes.
Do not regress on combinations of parameters that are simply multiplied by each
other in the aquifer model. For example, the Hurst-van Everdingen aquifer constant
contains the product of porosity, reservoir thickness, encroachment angle and the
square of the original reservoir radius. If a regression is performed on pairs of these
parameters, then the regression will not converge easily, particularly if the initial
values are not close to a solution.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

164 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 148: History matching plots

The match now is very good (Figure 148), the aquifer model and OGIP are
consistent with the production history. Note however, that although the actual values
calculated for the aquifer model taken together describe the aquifer well, the
individual parameter values do not in themselves necessarily correspond to reality.
These parameters are not a unique set that characterise the aquifer.
Select Finish | File | Save.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 165

3.3.5 STEP 5 : Relative Permeability Matching

In this section, the effective relative permeability of water will be obtained by
matching the fractional water flow obtained from the production history to the fluid
saturations calculated by a material balance simulation.
Relative permeabilities were not used during the material balance matching and are
not used during the simulation calculation, since the produced water and gas are
input as part of the production history. The simulation is merely providing the water
saturation within the tank model, resulting from a material balance simulation.
Select History Matching | Run Simulation | Calc to run a material balance
simulation of the production history. Select OK when the calculation has completed.

Figure 149: Simulation results

Return to the main MBAL display by clicking Done. Next, select History Matching |
Fw Matching to display the matching screen.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

166 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 150: Fw matching screen

Within this screen, the fractional water flow is plotted as a function of water
saturation. The water breakthrough point can be set by a double left click at an
appropriate saturation (a dashed green line is shown at the new breakthrough
saturation). Note that a breakthrough point below the connate water saturation
(indicated by a grey line) is not possible. Additionally parameter values can be
entered by selecting Parameters. Leave the water breakthrough saturation at the
connate water saturation (0.2).
A region of the display can be enlarged by holding down the left mouse button and
dragging it to select the desired region. The original display can be redrawn by
selecting Redraw. Production history data points may be selected by holding down
the right mouse button and dragging it to select the desired points. The weighting of
the selected points may be altered, or excluded from use in the regression.
Select Regress, then Parameters to display the matched parameters (Figure 151).
Select Finish | Yes to save the matched Corey coefficients.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 167

Figure 151: Matched Fw Parameters

It is now desirable to perform a material balance predition to check that the fraction
flow of water is sufficiently well characterised by the matched relative permeability
model. A prediction calculation in its simplest form requires a history of oil or gas
production rates (copied from the simulation calculation), from which everything else
is calculated. Of particular interest will be the predicted WGR (Water Gas Ratio).
Select History Matching | Run Simulation | Report and check report to Clipboard
with the Tab delimited format.

Figure 152: Reporting data

Select Layout | Hide All and then highlight Time and Average Gas Rate.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

168 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 153: Selecting items to report

Select Done | Report to save the results to the clipboard. Select Done to return to
the main MBAL window and open EXCEL and paste the the contents of the clipboard
into it. The simulation average gas rates are recorded at the end of each time step.
From within MBAL select Production Prediction | Prediction Setup and set the
prediction method as shown in Figure 154 and select Done. Ensure that Use
Relative Permeabilities is checked and the Prediction End is set to End of
Production History.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 169

Figure 154: Prediction Setup Screen

Select Production Prediction | Production and Constraints and copy the

production gas history (by selecting Copy) into the production constraint screen
(Figure 155) and select Done.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

170 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 155: Production Prediction Screen

Select Production Prediction | Reporting Schedule. Here, we need to specify how

frequent do we need MBAL to report the results. We can set to automatic. Hence,
click on Done to accept automatic reporting. Then, hit on Prediction | Run
Prediction | Calc and OK | Plot when the calculation has completed. Select
Variables and highlight streams Simulation and Prediction, and plot Pressure,
then select Done to view the plot.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 171

Figure 156: Comparing simulation and prediction results

For this example the prediction is very good and some confidence in future
predictions can be expected. If the prediction does not model the fractional
productions well, then the fractional flow can be rematched using different data point
weightings or Corey parameters altered by hand.
Select Finish | Done | File | Save to complete this tutorial example.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

172 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.4 MBAL Oil History Matching Example

This example presumes that the user is familiar with setting up single tank models in
MBAL.
In this exercise the objectives are:

Quality-check the production data that is available. This quality check is

based on what is possible physically.
Based on the checked data build MBAL model and identify various drive
mechanisms and fine tune Oil in place (OIP) estimates using History
matching techniques.
Quality-check the fine tuned MBAL model selected after history match using
techniques available in MBAL software.

Methodology:
The oil reservoir model will be built step by step. At each step if any laboratory or
field data is available, its quality will be checked and then it will be used in the model.
The available data is described in the following sections.

3.4.1 PVT Data

(@ 250 deg F)

Bubble point (Pb) = 2200 psig

Solution GOR = 500 SCF/STB
FVF@ Pb = 1.32 RB/STB
Oil Visc.@ Pb = 0.4 cP
Oil gravity = 39 API
Gas grav. = 0.798
Water Salinity = 100,000 PPM

3.4.1.1Production data
This data is contained in an Excel file OILRES1.XLS. Later in this chapter a
description on how to transfer the data from Excel into MBAL will be provided.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 173

3.4.2 Setting up the Basic Model

Note: If you comfortable with setting up basic MBAL single tank models, you can
skip this section and go to the next section. The basic tank model that this section is
used to set up is under the file name res1.mbi.

Start MBAL and select the menu option File | New.

On the menu bar go to Tools and click on Material Balance.
On the menu bar go to Options and following screen appears. Fill the
screen with the following details:

Figure 157: Setting the option

In this screen, you have defined oil as the main fluid, selected a simple tank model
and will enter the production history by tank. You also do not want to do
compositional tracking for this reservoir.
Then again on the menu bar go to PVT | Fluid Properties and supply the following
data:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

174 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 158: PVT input

In this section we have specified the Black oil properties of the oil as given in the PVT
data available section. We also have specified water salinity and indicated that the
produced gas has no CO2, H2S or N2 in it.
In the previous screen we also have indicated that we want the PVT behaviour to be
predicted by Glaso and Beggs et al correlations. Since we do have laboratory
measured data for this fluid at bubble point conditions as given in available PVT data
section, we will match the lab data to the correlations that we are selecting. In the
PVT Input dialog, press the Match button and the following screen appears and we
can enter measured data at bubble point as indicated in the following screen:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 175

Figure 159: Entering PVT match data

After we have entered the data, if we click on Match | Calc this will start the matching
process. Before you hit Calc, ensure that the Match all option as shown in the screen
below is ticked. This will make the program match the lab data to all the correlations
available in MBAL.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

176 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 160: PVT matching

Once this is done, click the Match Param button to look at parameters of each of the
correlations and the standard deviation, to see which of them does the best job. In
this case we select Glaso for bubble point, GOR and FVF calculations; and Beggs for
viscosity calculation.

Figure 161: Matched parameters

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 177

At this stage you have finished specifying the PVT properties of the fluid of your tank.
Now the next step is building your tank model. In the main menu bar go to Input |
Tank Data, and supply the following information. This is the basic information about
the reservoir that you must have.
Tank type
Tank name
Temperature
Initial pressure
Porosity
Connate water saturation
Water compressibility
Initial gas cap
Original oil in place
Start of production

Oil
Tank01
250 degree F
4000 psig
0.23
0.25
Use Corr
0
206 MMSTB
01/01/1998

Figure 162: Tank input screen tank parameters

In this screen we have said that we have a reservoir which has oil as its primary
fluid, it is at a temperature of 250 deg F, the initial pressure of this reservoir was 4000
psig. The average porosity within the reservoir is 23%. The connate water saturation
is 25%. Note that the initial gas cap field is not available to be edited. This is
because, in PVT section we specified that at 250 F, the bubble point was 2200 psig
and at 4000 psig the reservoir will be undersaturated and will have no gas cap. The
program on the basis of the tank temperature, pressure and the PVT section will
determine whether the reservoir is undersaturated or not. In case it is not you will
also require an initial estimate of the gas cap.
JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

178 - 208

Tutorial Guide

You also will be required to enter an initial estimate of Oil in Place, obtained from
geological surveys for example. The screen also requires entering a start production
date for this reservoir.
Next information to be supplied is the aquifer support to the field. As there are yet no
evidence to suggest the presence of an aquifer, this will be left to None for the time
being.
The next information about the tank that we will have to enter is the rock properties.
We can enter rock compressibility by hand, we can use the correlations to evaluate
rock compressibility for us or we can enter compressibility as a function of pressure
in table form, if we have the data. In this example we select to use correlations.

Figure 163: Tank input screen Rock compressibility

The next data you have to enter is the relative permeability data. The relative
permeability data is used in prediction calculations only. It is used to find WC and
producing GOR, which are basically water fractional flow and gas fractional flow and
depend on the water and gas saturation in the tank. If we have an initial gas cap and
we are producing from it, we should use the total reservoir volume including that of
gas cap to find saturation. If this is the case it should be selected in the screen of
Tank Parameters. The relative permeability data can be entered as a table or as a
Corey function. If you click on the Rel Perm from combo box, both these options are
REVEALed. In this case we enter the Corey functions.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 179

Phase
Water
Oil
Gas

Residual Saturation
(fraction)
0.25
0.15
0.02

End Point
(fraction)
0.7
0.8
0.9

Exponent
1.5
1.3
1

Figure 164: Tank input screen Relative permeability

You also enter water and gas sweep efficiency values in this screen. These values
are used to find the velocity at which the OWC and GOC contact move, when the
monitor contacts option is selected.
The last data that we have to supply is the production history of the reservoir as
shown in the following screen. Note that this can be copied from the Excel file
OILRES1.XLS.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

180 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 165: Tank input screen History matching

At this stage we have specified all the input data to the reservoir and we should
check if everything is in order. To do so, if we go to the main screen menu and select
Input | System summary the following screen appears and tells us if we have any
missing or invalid data entry. In this case everything is okay.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 181

Figure 166: Tank input summary

This finishes our setting up of basic tank model. It is advisable to save the file at this
point. Next step would be to fine-tune the model, in terms of identifying and
quantifying its various drive mechanisms.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

182 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.4.3 Matching to Production History data in MBAL

The first thing to do is to see whether our production history data is consistent with
our PVT data. In the PVT section we indicated that the bubble point was 2200 psig
and the solution GOR was 500 Scf/STB. If we go to the production history screen in
the tank input data, we can click on the option Work with GOR at the bottom of the
dialog and the gas rates are converted into producing GOR values.

Figure 167: Checking consistency of data

In the production history, if you scroll down on this screen, you will see that the
reservoir pressure is always above 2200 psig. Thus there is no free gas in the tank
and hence the producing GOR should be the one coming from solution. Indeed in
this case all the gas rates covert into GOR values which are nearly 500 SCF/STB.
Thus the data is consistent with the PVT. In case it is not so, we need to go back to
PVT or source of production data and try find the reason for the anomaly.
Once we are sure that the production history data is consistent with the PVT, the next
step is to see how the model that we have set up compares to the history data. At
this stage it is important to note that we are after a model which performs well on
each method and not only on some. Thus we should start with History Matching | All.
This produces the following plots.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 183

Figure 168: History matching

Note that in the graphical methods the plot shown in the screen above is the
Campbell plot. You may not get this initially. You should click on the graphical
method screen and in the menu bar of the above screen as shown appears. Select
Method | Campbell Plot.
The first plot is called the energy plot. It indicates contribution of various drive
mechanisms towards production with time.
The second plot is the Campbell plot, which is a graphical technique used to find oil
in place given a production history and known drive mechanisms (diagnostics).
The last plot is the analytical plot. On the y-axis of the analytical plot is the tank
pressure and on the x-axis is the primary phase production (in this case oil). The data
points are the actual pressures with oil production that we have entered in the
history. The blue line indicates the response of the model according to the data
entered in the Tank Data screen.
Based on the response of the Campbell plot, the presence of an aquifer is very likely
(source of energy). Therefore an aquifer model can be selected in the tank data
section:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

184 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 169: Initialising an aquifer model

Going back to History Matching/All:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 185

Figure 170: History matching plots

If we look at the analytical plot, it indicates that with the current aquifer model, we are
predicting production rates higher than those actually observed. Thus we may have a
weaker aquifer. We can decrease the strength of the aquifer either by accessing on
the tool bar of the previous screen Input | Tank data and decreasing the aquifer
inner to outer radius ratio (rD). We can accomplish the same, in the WD plot of the
above screen, if we double click at a the smaller rD value of 4.0, as indicated in the
plot below, so that on the analytical plot the actual history points and the solid line
come closer as shown below.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

186 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 171: History Matching Plot

At this stage if you look at the analytical plot, we can see that the match we are
getting is quite good. On this plot the model selected and the history entered seem to
be in good agreement with each other. But on the other hand, the model we have
selected does not fit well on the Campbell plot, where ideally we should get a
horizontal straight line. This is the reason that we recommended at the start that
while doing history match, all the screens should be used simultaneously and a
model that fares well according to all different methods be used.
At the end of this step we are very close to representing the reservoir behaviour and
we can fine-tune it by doing a regression analysis. To activate regression analysis
button, we have to click on the analytical plot and in the menu bar of the above
screen select Regression, which will activate the following screen

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 187

Figure 172: Regression

In all of the variables we can change on the above screen, we select the parameters
that influence aquifer behaviour and the OIP itself. This is a good choice for this case
because from the energy plot we see that these are the two major components of the
energy of the system. We do not change the compressiblity because we believe the
correlations do a good job for this case.
At the end of regression we get the following best match.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

188 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 173: Transferring the regressed data

Once the regression is finished, the best fit data should transferred to start column by
clicking on the transfer button which is the arrow button between the Start and Best
Fit text.
After transferring the data if we click on Done we get the following plots:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 189

Figure 174: History matching done

The model got at this stage in terms of OIP and various drive mechanisms seems to
satisfy all the methods and is thus acceptable
Save the file as Oilres.mbi.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

190 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.4.4 Running Sensitivity Analysis on the Tank Model

Once at the end of history matching we have selected a model in terms of OIP and
various drive mechanisms, it is important that we do some sort of analysis on the
figures we have arrived at check our confidence in these figures. This is allowed by
doing a sensitivity analysis on the model. In sensitivity analysis what we do is that we
try to see how sensitive is our model to the change in parameters that we have fixed
by history match.
If we go to the main menu and select History Match | Sensitivity the following
screen appears. In this case we want to study the effect of changing the OIP place
only. We are trying to see the effect of changing it between the values of 180 and
250.

Figure 175: Sensitivity

On this screen if the Plot button is selected, the following plot is obtained.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 191

Figure 176: Sensitivity plot

On the x-axis is the OIP and on the y-axis is the standard deviation in terms of
predicted production rates over the history. The presence of a minimum shows the
uniqness of the solution.
We can similarly do sensitivity analysis on other drive mechanisms like the aquifer
parameters for this case and find about our confidence in those figures as well.

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

192 - 208

Tutorial Guide

3.4.5 Using Simulation Option to Quality check the History

Matched Model
At the end of running sensitivity analysis the next step we have identified our
confidence in the drive mechanisms. At this stage it must be noted that in the
regression analysis that we did in analytical plot, we take the tank pressure and non
primary phase production and with the model calculate the error in production rate of
primary phase, oil in this case.
In simulation what we do is exactly opposite. With the given model we have fixed we
take all the phase rates from the history and try to predict the pressure, phase
saturation in the tank and other tank parameters. If our model is acceptable the last
test it should satisfy is that it should be able to reproduce pressure as well.
If in the main menu we select History Matching | Run simulation | Calculate , the
program does calculations. At the end of calculation if you hit Plot, the following plot
appears:-

Figure 177: Comparison between simulation and history

This plot has the pressure with time plotted both from simulation and production
history data. In this case both are identical and thus the match attained is good.

Note: The model is not ready at this stage to go ahead with predictions and
study various development alternatives. Fractional flow matching in order to
create pseudo relative permeability curves should be done and also the
verification of these as demonstrate in the previous example.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 193

3.5 Performing a Production Prediction starting from a

history matched model
The following example shows how to perform prediction runs with MBAL.
The file GasTank1.mbi has already been history matched.
In order to follow this example, first you would need to launch MBAL and then recall
the MBAL file:
C:\Program Files\Petroleum Experts\IPM4.0\Samples\MBAL\GasTank1.mbi
Statement of the problem
An MBAL model has been created and history match performed. It will be used to
generate production predictions for two cases:
Case 1: Follow the current production pattern WHFP = 800 psig
Case 2: Reduce the well head pressure to 100 psig from 01/01/2004
Input Data
Well Inflow Data
In this example, the well Inflow is represented by the C & n model. Any sophisticated
IPR model can be collapsed to the C & n method. For more details on Inflow models,
please refer to PROSPER, the well bore modelling package.
Well Name
Producer#1
Producer#2
Producer#3

C- factor (Mscf/d/psi2)
0.027
0.002
0.005

N-Exponent
0.85
0.95
0.9

Generic Well Outflow tables:

In this example, it will be assumed that all wells have the same lift tables.
Lift tables can be generated with PROSPER and then imported in MBAL. They have
already been prepared and can be found in:
C:\Program Files\Program Files\Petroleum experts\IPM4.0\Samples\MBAL\GasTank
Well Lift Tables.TPD
Cases to study
Case 1: WHFP = 800 psig
Case 2: WHFP is reduced to 100 psig from 01/01/2004 by installing a compressor in
the field.
Step-by-Step procedure for a prediction run with MBAL
Step 1: Prediction set-up
In order to perform a prediction, select |Production Prediction |Prediction Setup and
make the following changes:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

194 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 178: Prediction Calculation Setup

Select |Done to complete this.

Step 2: Boundary conditions at surface
Now select |Production Prediction|Production and Constraints and enter date and
Manifold Pressure as shown in the screenshot below:

Figure 179: Prediction Production and Constraints

The manifold pressure is the pressure in the node furthest from the sandface in the
well model used to generate the lift tables. In this example, the manifold pressure is
the well head pressure.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 195

Now select |Done to complete this.

Step 3: Well Type Definition
Each well is defined by a VLP and an IPR. VLP stands for vertical lift performance,
whereas IPR stands for Inflow Performance Relationship.
Select |Production Prediction|Well Type Definition, the following screen is accessed:

Figure 180: Well Input Data

Clicking on the
button, a well is created with the default name Well1 that can
be overwritten.
Here we will overwrite the default well name with Producer#1P
Make sure that the well type is correct. Here the well type is Dry Gas Producer.
This is how the screen looks like:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

196 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 181: Well Input Data

Select the Next button to proceed to the Inflow section.

Step 4: Inflow Performance Tab
Once entered the Inflow tab screen, make the following changes:

Figure 182: Well Inflow Data

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 197

To assign the relative permeabilities derived during the fractional flow matching,
select |Edit|Copy. In this way, a list of all permeability tables available in the MBAL
model is displayed:

Figure 183: Relative Permeability Data Transfer

Here select the appropriate one and then select |Copy and then the Corey
parameters are assigned to the well.
Now click on |Done. MBAL will ask if the water breakthrough saturation is to be
copied:

Figure 184: Water Breakthrough copy

Now select |Yes to continue with |Next|Next (skipping the More Inflow).
Note: How to derive relative permeability curves by fractional flow matching:
After running a simulation, select History MatchingFw Matching from the main menu
toolbar. The follow plot is displayed:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

198 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 185: Fw Matching plot

From the menu toolbar of the plot screen, select Well, and then the well to match, for
example Producer#1:

Figure 186: Fw Matching plot

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 199

In the plot area, double click on a point corresponding to the desired breakthrough
water saturation (for example the minimum water saturation, which is 0.29 in this
case). After that, click on Regress, so that the program can perform a regression to fit
the points calculated by the simulation, and a set of Corey function parameters are
calculated, which give the same fractional flow.

Figure 187: Fw Matching plot while performing regression

Step 5: Lift tables import

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

200 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 188: Well Outflow Data

In this screen click on the |Edit button and then select |Import. Using the browser,
import the TPD file provided.
TPD files are lift tables files for Petroleum Experts applications (GAP, REVEAL,
MBAL).

Figure 189: TPD file import

Clicking on |Open, a statistics about the flow tables is shown:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 201

Figure 190: TPD file import

Select |Done and this completes the setup of this well.

Repeat the same process for all the 3 wells.
This is how the main screen will look like:

Figure 191: MBAL final model

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

202 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Step 6: Well scheduling.

In order to schedule the wells, select |Production Prediction|Well Schedule and make
the following changes:

Figure 192: Well Schedule

Click on |Done to validate the screen.

Step 7: Reporting schedule
For this example, select |Production Prediction|Reporting Schedule and make the
following changes:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 203

Figure 193: Reporting Schedule

The Keep History button allows to have the full history stream along with the
prediction stream for comparison purposes. Keep Automatic Reporting Frequency
and click on Done to exit the screen.
Step 8: Running the prediction
Choose |Production Prediction|Run Prediction|Calculate, then Ok. The results of the
calculation are displayed:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

204 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 194: Run Production Prediction

Click on |Plot|Variables and make the following choices:

Figure 195: Plot Variables

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 205

Afterwards, click on |Done. The following plot is displayed:

Figure 196: Average Gas Rate Plot

Now starting from this model it is possible to make forecasts on multiple field
scenarios.
Step 9: Saving a case a stream within MBAL
From the plot toolbar choose |Finish. It is possible to save the results of each
prediction, so that they can be reviewed later and compared to other scenarios.
In the Run Prediction screen, click on Save:

Figure 197: Save Prediction

Then click on|Add and overwrite the stream name as suggested below:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

206 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 198: Save Results screen

Select |Done|Done to complete this.

Step 10: Second case
Choose |Production Prediction|Production and Constraints, and enter the new data
for Case 2:

Figure 199: Prediction Production and Constraints

Select |Done to complete this.

Step 11: Generating the production profile
Choose |Production Prediction|Run Prediction|Calculate|Save |Add and name this
stream Case 2:

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD

Tutorial Guide 207

Figure 200: Save Results screen

After clicking on |Done and then |Plot|Variables, make the following selections, for
instance:

Figure 201: Plot Variables

Then |Done and the following plot is displayed:

JANUARY 2004

TUTORIAL GUIDE

208 - 208

Tutorial Guide

Figure 202: Average Gas Rate Plot for Case 1 and 2

This plot shows a comparison between Case 1 and Case 2.

The example is now terminated.

PETROLEUM EXPERTS LTD