Improved Chemical Deliverability Reduces Operational Cost

Abstract

Maturation of hydrocarbon reserves often occurs conjointly with an increase in flow assurance challenges. Deposition of paraffin and/or asphaltene is at the forefront of these challenges. Well maturity, declining reservoir pressure, coupled with hydrocarbon deposition, negatively impact the economic potential of a given reserve. Trinidad's Block Two Region is inundated with hundreds of mature paraffinic wells. To maintain cost effectiveness; proactive initiatives must be implemented with minimal operational expenditure. One such initiative used in the remediation of downhole hydrocarbon deposition, is the implementation of downhole treatment via chemical additives. Newer wells are often completed with allowances to enable targeted downhole chemical remediation. However, for older wells, as is the case in some Trinidad onshore blocks, the implementation of these enhanced modes of downhole chemical delivery, typically requires redesign of the downhole completion. The capital associated with this activity is considered cost prohibitive given the current oil price and low oil production from majority of these wells. This paper serves to highlight the profitability study with regards to the successful implementation of three common modes of topside treatment of paraffin deposition; steam treatment, annular chemical injection, and periodic batch treatment. It will also compare the return on investment associated with these successful applications. In this present economic climate, it is imperative for producers to adopt a proactive approach in the resolution of flow assurance challenges, namely hydrocarbon deposition, to ensure maximized production.