A New Method for Determining Economic Well Pattern Density and Infilling Time of Tight Gas Reservoirs

Abstract

Well pattern infilling optimization is a crucial measure to enhance gas recovery, especially in tight gas reservoirs with low permeability and small-scale sand bodies. Traditional methods of determining well pattern density rely on qualitative analysis from the perspective of gas blocks. However, these methods are challenging to apply to sand bodies with different properties, and there have been no studies conducted on infilling time, which significantly impacts production increment. In response to this situation, this paper establishes a series of evaluation indexes and proposes a numerical simulation of economic well pattern density and infilling time based on real parameters obtained from the Linxing–Shenfu gas field. To quantitatively determine the economic well pattern density and infilling time based on fine characterization of sand bodies, a sensitivity analysis is conducted, considering various permeability levels and reserve abundance. Two intersection charts of economic well pattern density and infilling time, relating to reserve abundance and permeability, are then drawn. Furthermore, a real well site is selected as an example, and the infilling effect analysis confirms the reliability of the charts. The new method of determining economic well pattern density and infilling time presented in this article can provide theoretical support for the economic and efficient development of the Linxing–Shenfu gas field, serving as a useful reference for the beneficial development of similar gas reservoirs.