Bruce A. Dale

A New Enriched Finite Element Method to Simulate Hydrocarbon Reservoirs Containing Subsurface Features

In this paper, we present a new computational framework to simulate reservoirs containing complicated geological and engineering features (for example, faults, induced or natural fractures, and perforations). Unlike traditional computational methods, the new approach does not require the mesh to honor the geometrical shapes of subsurface features. The e ects of these features on the solution are captured by enriching the nite element approximation based on the Partition of Unity theory. This new simulation capability eliminates the laborious meshing work traditionally required for modeling complicated subsurface features without compromising solution accuracy. It is especially useful in the detailed analysis of near-well physics where subsurface features at this scale need to be modeled both accurately and e ciently. In cases where the subsurface features are evolving, the computational mesh does not have to know a priori the shape of the evolving subsurface features. This method is particularly useful in the study of curvature changes of hydraulic fractures due to evolving stress elds away from the well. A number of examples are given to demonstrate the e ectiveness of the proposed approach. The examples are grouped into three broader application areas: (1) well performance analysis of fractured completions, (2) deformation characteristics of reservoirs containing fracture networks, and (3) simulation of fracture interference and re-orientation.

An Automated Tool-Joint Inspection Device for the Drillstring

This paper discusses the development of an automated tool joint inspection device-i.e., the fatigue crack detector (FCD), which can detect defects in the threaded region of drillpipe and drill collars. Inspection tests conducted at a research test facility and at drilling rig sites indicate that this device can detect both simulated defects (saw slots and drilled holes) and service-induced defects, such as fatigue cracks, pin stretch (plastic deformation), mashed threads, and corrosion pitting. The system operates on an electromagnetic-flux leakage principle and has several advantages over the conventional method of magnetic particle inspection.

Physics-Based Well Design - Engineering the Well for Production

Ensuring long-term well integrity and optimum completion performance is essential for economic development of assets developed with fewer, more-complex wells. The full-length paper describes unique, physics-based modeling capabilities used during well planning, design, and production to deliver optimized well performance over the life of the well. The modeling capabilities integrate fundamental physics to provide a more accurate determination of well-performance technical limits.

A Test Program for the Evaluation of Oilfield Thread Protectors

Transportation, handling, and corrosion damage to the threads of oilfield tubulars cost the industry millions of dollars each year. This problem has intensified with the increased use of proprietary connections, which represent a significant percentage of the total tubular cost. The thread protector is the primary means of protecting the threads from impact and corrosion damage. A test program has been designed and a test facility built. To evaluate the performance of oilfield protectors, a wide variety of thread protectors were tested, including metal, plastic, and composite (metal-elastomer) designs. This paper discusses this testing and outlines a guide for the selection of oilfield thread protectors for various service conditions.