Production Logging in Horizontal Wells: Different Deployment and Data Acquisition Methodologies in Open-Hole and Cased Completions

Abstract

The horizontal wells drilled during the last few years are coming to a mature state in different fields and locations. This maturing has created the requirement to evaluate the performance of the wells and determine water sources for proper reservoir management.In horizontal-well tool deployment, multiple sensor data acquisition and the interpretation of these results is a challenge particularly when there are long intervals of open-hole completions and where fractures are often encountered. The horizontal cased-hole completions use multiple downhole valves and external packers to provide isolation between intervals. This paper reviews the two primary deployment techniques of coil tubing and tractor conveyance and highlights their advantages and limitations. In the paper, we propose a general guideline for their use.The use of different sensors and their application is reviewed, providing recommendations particularly for low flow-rate conditions. Two interpretation methodologies are evaluated and results are compared along with the interpretation from other sensors.The value of integrating of all available information and the value of different data acquisition and evaluation techniques is presented as well in the paper. The conclusions highlight the operational considerations, the data interpretation, and added value in the evaluation of well performance to maintain production and improve reservoir management.