Improved Methods and Workflows for Multi-Zone Stimulation

Abstract

Economic production from many low permeability unconventional reservoirs has been enabled by the ability to propagate multiple stimulation treatments per well and from multiple wellbores located on a single pad or platform. A variety of design procedures and mechanical means have been developed to create improved connections to the reservoir, reflecting ongoing innovation in improving stimulation effectiveness while enabling reliable treatment placement and completion cost reduction. Both modeling and interpretation tools have been developed to predict, assess, and optimize stimulation treatment design and placement.Successful multi-zone stimulation requires evaluation and selection of many options -ranging from rock property design assumptions to methods of zonal isolation and fluid diversion to the efficient use of water and equipment deployment. Hence it is essential to incorporate strategies to integrate multi-disciplinary technology, operational data, and economic optimization in the workflows to achieve the best results. These strategies also require the flexibility to adapt various existing and emerging technologies within the unconventional reservoirs and account for the local operating environment and conditions. This paper examines the fundamental elements driving multi-zone stimulation effectiveness based on integration of extensive field experience and research in reservoirs requiring multi-zone stimulation to unlock their economic potential. Tools and workflows will be illustrated that have improved multi-zone stimulation effectiveness, enabled significant operational efficiencies, and have led to enhanced well performance and resource recovery. TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax +1-972-952-9435Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous subsidiaries, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity in this paper, the parent company and its subsidiaries may be referenced separately or collectively as "ExxonMobil." Abbreviated references describing global or regional operational organizations and global or regional business lines are also sometimes used for convenience and simplicity. Nothing in this presentation is intended to override the corporate separateness of these separate legal entities. Working relationships discussed in this presentation do not necessarily represent a reporting connection, but may reflect a functional guidance, stewardship, or service relationship.