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Optimizing
Mature Assets
In a recent article in
Hart's E&P, Jorge Manrique, Knowledge Reservoir, L.P.
insightfully stated some concepts that operators should
consider as they strive to optimize performance of mature
producing assets. Optimization does not necessarily mean
implementing the cheapest option. Neither does it mean blindly
choosing the most sophisticated option. In practice, one needs
to identify the level of complexity of the problem at hand and
match the tool accordingly. Evaluating cost/benefits on a unit
basis ($/bbl or $/Mcf), recognizing timing issues and making
timely decisions are important. Understanding the reservoir
through proper diagnostics and knowing what can be achieved
with technology is absolutely critical. The goal is simple—to
close the gap between current production and the reservoir
potential in a multi-well system.
Common thoughts that need
challenging are:
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I need more data—maybe not?
Has all the existing data been analyzed and understood? Do
you really have to know everything, or is it just key
points? Optimization is analysis conducive to action.
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Let's deal with the problems
rather than create opportunities—often makes sense to help
good wells become even better as opposed to working with the
"dogs."
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Let's focus on other
issues—they will always be there, don't let the urgent
displace the important.
The tools for optimization are
there if the approach and will are. Go forth and optimize.
Excerpted from "Today's
Production Challenges," Hart's E&P, October 2005 (www.eandp
net.com/articles/3865).
Sucker Rod Handling—
Parts 2 and 3
Last quarter we highlighted a
"Part 1" article on rod storage and transportation. Now Parts
2 and 3 of this four-part series by Russell Stevens and Scott
Malone of Norris
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have been published in Well
Servicing.
Again, these are recommended
reading whether as a refresher course or as training for a new
hand.
SPE's Industry
Search Engine
Nearly all are familiar with
keyword-based search engines like Google. Although effective
in locating material, they can generate a large number of hits
that require extended time to wade through. In contrast, SPE's
industry search engine uses a concept-based search technology,
going beyond just looking for occurrences of words. This means
the finds will be more focused.
One can simultaneously search
SPE websites, the eLibrary (papers) and E&P industry sites or
any combination of the above. There are now nearly 500
E&P-related websites (this includes the PTTC network) that SPE
"spiders" for inclusion within the E&P industry sites and this
list continues to grow. Sources include research institutes,
news sources, government entities, universities, service
companies, professional organizations, oil and gas companies
and environmental groups. Hits returned from an
industry-specific
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search engine run a much higher
probability of being qualified than with keyword-based
systems.
PTTC urges people to try it
out (www.spe.org/mainsearch/basic
Search.do). Nothing to lose and time to gain.
And the finds may be more on target too.
Juckett Named Director of AAPG's Washington
Geoscience and Energy Office
Don Juckett, retired in 2003
from DOE's Office of Natural Gas and Petroleum Import and
Export Activities, was recently named Director of GEO-DC (AAPG's
Geoscience and Energy Office in Washington). Prior to joining
DOE, Juckett held various positions with Phillips Petroleum in
research and research management. GEO-DC's goal is to become a
recognized, informed and responsible member of the community
of non-governmental organizations in Washington that is
recognized for its ability to educate government, media and
other non-governmental organizations. Nine individuals within
AAPG leadership will serve on GEO-DC's board. GEO-DC is
located in the American Geological Institute's office in
Alexandria, Virginia. There will be a full report on AAPG's
GEO-DC initiative in the January issue of Explorer.
Excerpted from an article in
the AAPG Explorer, December 2005 (www.aapg.org/explorer/2005/
12dec/geo-dc.cfm). |
Tech
Transfer Track
