First Three-Zone Intelligent Completion in Brazilian Presalt: Challenges and Lessons

Since the first intelligent completion was installed 20 years ago, the systems have become increasingly complex in order to reach productivity and optimization goals, allowing real-time independent monitoring and management of each zone in the well. Accompanying the search for greater system efficiency is the goal of reliability assurance. This paper presents the complexity and challenges of planning and installing the first intelligent completion in a subsea well with three producing zones in the Brazilian presalt.
Introduction
Below water depths greater than 7,200 ft, below salt layers up to 6,500 ft thick, and at true vertical depths (TVDs) of approximately 18,000 ft lie the presalt fields. The distance from shore (as much as 300 km), high carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide concentrations, high temperatures (sometimes greater than 100°C), and the existence of multiple intervals with different porosities all add to the challenges of producing from the presalt successfully.
Through the installation of permanent downhole gauges (PDGs), intelligent completion allows real-time monitoring of downhole parameters such as pressure and temperature, providing a better understanding of what is happening at any given time. Hydraulically actuated flow-control valves give the operators the ability to access each interval with the touch of a button, greatly improving reaction time and reducing the need for costly interventions. Furthermore, valves with adjustable choke settings increase ultimate recovery from the reservoir by fine tuning the production/injection of each individual zone. Chemicals can be injected to ensure productivity and avoid potential problems to production such as scale and asphaltene buildup.
If you would like to continue reading,
please Sign In, JOIN SPE or Subscribe to JPT
First Three-Zone Intelligent Completion in Brazilian Presalt: Challenges and Lessons
01 April 2018
Analytical Study Examines Production of Multistage Horizontal Wells in the Bakken
Multistage horizontal well designs were first implemented in the Bakken in 2007. Since then, more than 12,000 wells have been completed in either the Middle Bakken or Three Forks zones.
Smart Robotic System Tracks Buried Pipelines, Inspects for External Damage
The complete paper describes the development of a smart robotic inspection system for noncontact condition monitoring and fault detection in buried pipelines.
Integrated Deepwater MPD Control System Increases Accuracy, Ease of Use
This paper presents lessons learned regarding design, testing, and installation of a completely integrated managed-pressure-drilling (MPD) control system on a deepwater drilling rig.
No editorial available
ADVERTISEMENT
STAY CONNECTED
Don't miss out on the latest technology delivered to your email weekly. Sign up for the JPT newsletter. If you are not logged in, you will receive a confirmation email that you will need to click on to confirm you want to receive the newsletter.
ADVERTISEMENT
No editorial available
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT