N950 Applied Reservoir Simulation

The workshop begins with an overview of general reservoir simulation concepts and assumptions, followed by a discussion of data preparation and history matching techniques. Significant time will be allocated for hands-on application of the simulator.  Topics of discussion include introduction to reservoir simulation, introduction to ECLIPSE, grids, aquifers, PVT data, rock and fluid data, initial conditions, and time-dependent data. The class builds upon a single example simulation which applies many of the most common elements of a simulation study. The class will not use all the auxiliary tools for preparing simulation data (e.g. 3D geomodels, PVT programs or vertical-flow performance analysis). However, the application of such software in the simulation workflow will be discussed. The specific software to be used will be Eclipse black-oil for simulations, Eclipse Office for xy plotting, and Floviz for 3D visualization. Third party visualization software such as, S3GRAF or TECPLOT RS, may also be used depending on license availability.

The course will generally follow the basic outline shown here, but all the material may not be covered in detail depending on the level of experience of the participants with the ECLIPSE software. The order of presentation of the material is subject to change, depending on the level of student familiarity with the various topics.

Review of Reservoir Simulation

• Assumptions and Sources of Error
• Finite Difference and Material Balance
• Simulator formulations (e.g. Streamline, finite element)
• Preparing Data and History Matching
• Review of Simulator Features and Data Structure
• Overview of auxiliary Software (e.g. geomodels, PVT, SCAL, VFP, visualization)
• Editing files and Running the Simulator
• Introduction to Workshop Problem(s)

Building and Running a Simulation File

• Reservoir Simulation Grids and Model Types
• Gridding Considerations
• Geologic Descriptions (2D and 3D)
• Upscaling from 3D Descriptions
• Aquifer Descriptions
• Fluid Physical Property Data (PVT data)
• Discussion of laboratory data
• Overview of PVT data generation
• Rock-Fluid 
• Discussion of laboratory data
• Relative Permeability and Capillary Pressure Assumptions
• Hysteresis
• Rock Compaction
• Surface Tension Effects
• Initialization (Initial Pressures, Saturations, and Compositions)
• Specifying Initial Conditions
• Using end-Point scaling for initial saturation variability
• Non-equilibrium initialization
• Well Completion and Rate/Pressure Data
• Incorporating well connection data
• Incorporating a historical rate deck and user file
• Incorporating VFP Tables
• Other Special Data Types (e.g. ptt, PLT, formation tester pressures, tracer)
• Advancing the Simulator Through Time
• Convergence Criteria
• Making your model run better – data issues and stability

History Matching and Forecasting Reservoir Performance

• History Matching Methodology
• Volumetric Adjustments
• SCAL and PVT Considerations
• Integration with Characterization
• Assisted History Matching
• History Matching Workshop Problem
• Volumetric Considerations / Aquifer
• Contacts / Initial Conditions
• Permeability
• PVT and SCAL
• Special Well Data
• Forecasting Methodology
• Optimizing recovery from the workshop problem
• Water and / or Gas Injection
• Review of Participants Workshop Results

Special Features and Auxiliary Programs (as Time Permits)

• Overview of Special Features
• Local grid refinements, compositional and well models
• Using Networks for Surface Facilities
• Basics of Compositional Simulation and EOS
• Dual-porosity/dual-permeability for fractured reservoirs

Open Work Session

• Requests by participants (as time permits)