Practical Approach to Effective Sand Prediction, Control and Management

Abstract

The production of formation sand is a problem associated with most oil deposits in the world. Major Sand production effects affect safety, well or field economics and continuous production. This has prompted the continued search for solutions to mitigate sand production in the oil and gas industry over time. The methodology often employed is through exclusive sand control or passive sand management. The ability to predict when a formation will fail and produce sand forms the basis as to what type of sand management strategy to use (whether downhole sand control system will be required or a sand management approach). As a result sand prediction forms the basis for major reservoir development plan. Variety of models available, their applicability and accuracy can be confusing and not representative of the production experience. Also, the concept of sand prediction, control and management is often treated separately. This study views sand prediction, control and management as an interdependent concept (Holistic). Review of State of the art sand prediction, control and management is carried out to proffer better understanding of the concept of sand production management. The mechanism of sand production is discussed with highlight of major parameters influencing sand production. It is identified that sand prediction forms the basis for reservoir development plan, therefore effective methodology for sand prediction, control and management is developed. Stepwise approach to carry out this concept is presented with flow charts and guidelines. In conclusion the study states the importance of data accuracy in sand prediction, the use of risk quantification. Quantifying uncertainties inherent in most predictions will help deploying the right type of sand management strategy in a formation.