Optimization of Mib-02 Well by Converting the Activation Mode Using Prosper Software

Abstract

Mibale oil field considered a mature oil field, located offshore in the coastal basin of the DR Congo and discovered in 1973, has seen an evolution in its production since it began operation in 1976, starting from an initial rate of 10,000 BOPD with 3 producing wells to the current production of 5,905 BOPD from 14 wells. In 2021, the field had 393 MMstb of oil reserves in the reservoir. A thorough study of the production system was carried out, focusing on the five best producing wells, including well MIB-02. Despite traversing layers of the reservoir with high oil potential, the well is underperforming with a respective flow rate of 351 BOPD and a 60% WOR using an electric submersible pump. Following this low production, various studies were conducted, including the study on converting the activation method by proceeding with nodal analysis technique. The use of nodal analysis proved crucial in identifying the shortcomings of the production system, combining field history with analysis of production, well test, pressure, and completion data. The IPM Prosper software enabled a thorough analysis, revealing that MIB-02 had a production potential greater than its current performance. This performance was revealed after evaluation and interpretation of IPR, VLP curves and sensitivities of variables such as water cut and pressure at the first node. After interpreting these curves, the MIB-02 well had the production capacity of 4100.62 BOPD and 12463.9 BWPD. By converting the submersible electric pump activation mode to gas-lift and exploring various scenarios, production was improved with an oil flow rate of 1244.9 BOPD, water flow of 2539 BWPD, to a gas flow of 0.37346 MMscf/day and 67.1% water cut. Despite these improvements, excessive water production remains a challenge while also highlighting the complexity of the production system and the limitations of the analysis technique. Therefore, further studies can be envisaged by modeling and simulating the reservoir, considering well interventions and quantifying the remaining reserves today. This more comprehensive approach will enable a clearer vision and help decide the best optimization strategies for the Mibale field production system.