Gas Lift System Production Optimization
Course Overview
Gas Lifting is considered to be one of the most flexible and cost-effective artificial lift systems. The optimum level of production rates versus lifting depth acheived for this system is unmatched. This system is best used for highly deviated wells producing sand, for wells with high formation of gas and liquid ratios, and for wells with multiple completions. Thus, optimizing production levels for these wells is one of the most important concerns of oil and gas companies. As oil wells mature, engineers face bigger challenges in recovering oil. One of the most common techniques used for improving crude production is through gas lifting. Because of its low operating cost and the flexibility of production that it provides, many companies are involved with this system. However, several factors limit the effectiveness of gas lifting, as different reservoirs are faced with variable pressure levels, temperature, and depositions. Therefore, as operations take place, the need for continuous system design, diagnosis, and
troubleshooting arises in order to optimize production levels.
troubleshooting arises in order to optimize production levels.
This course addresses the above areas of gas lifting operations. It gives a complete look on the operational activities which will enable field operators to fully optimize even from systems selection, design, and installation. Moreover, the course will then focus on the techniques in achieving production optimization, specifically with continuous flow installations, monitoring, and run-life optimization. In order to achieve optimal levels of production, NODAL analysis will be used in order to analyze and troubleshoot gas lifted wells. Hands-on class exercises and case studies will also be presented in order to test the participants’ application of the concepts learnt in the course into situational instances of field operations.
Course Objectives:
- LEARN to optimize production through gas lift system design, analysis, and troubleshooting
- APPLY techniques in gas lift operations from beginning to end of operations
- MANAGE challenging environment faced by gas lifted wells
- OVERCOME the limitations and problems faced in applying these optmization techniques
- OPTIMIZE operations through understanding gas lifting’s role in the whole production system
- GAIN practical skills in valve mechanics and NODAL analysis
- INTEGRATE gas lift system best operation practices with production optimization
Specially Designed for
The course is designed for, but not limited to, production technologists, petroleum engineers, and production engineers who are directly involved with gas lift system operations
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Production Technologists
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Petroleum Engineers
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Production Engineers
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Field Operators
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Lifting Executives
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Maintenance Engineers
DAY 1
Introduction to Artificial Lift Methods
- Importance and Short History of Artificial LIfting
- Comparison of Lift Methods
- Basic Features of LIft Methods
Multiphase Flow in Oil Wells
- Background Theories
- Calculation of Pressure Traverses
- Accuracy and Selection of Pressure Drop Calculation Models
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Use of Gradient Curves - Class Problems
- Computer Solutions - Class Problems
Basics of Nodal Analysis
- The Production System and its Behavior
- Basic Principles and Solutions
Gas Lift’s Role in the Production System
DAY 2
Gas Lift Installation Types
- Tubing Flow Installations
- Open Installation
- Semi-closed Installation
- Closed Installation
- Chamber Installations
- Casing Flow and Other Installations
Gas Lift Valves
- Gas Lift Valve Types
- Supporting Calculations
- Valve Mechanics of IPO Valves
- Dynamic Performance of Gas Lift Valves
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Gas Throughput Calculations (API RP 11V2) - Class Problem
- Setting of Gas Lift Valves
Design of Continuous Flow Gas Lift Installations
- Principles of Continuous Flow Gas Lifting
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Installation Design Calculations - Class Problems
- The Effects of Operational Parameters
New Developments in Gas Lifting
DAY 3
NODAL Analysis of Continuous Flow Gas Lifted Wells
- Description of System Performance
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Constant Wellhead Pressure Cases - Class Problems
- Unlimited & Limited Lift Gas Availability
- Variable Wellhead Pressure Cases
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The Equilibrium Curve Method - Class Problem
- System Stability
Optimization of Continuous Flow Gas Lift Installations(Part1)
- Basic Principles
- Optimization of a Single Well for Prescribed Liquid Rate
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Existing Compressor - Class Problem
- Compressor to be Selected
DAY 4
Optimization of Continuous Flow Gas Lift Installation (Part 2)
- Single-Well Optimization for Unlimited Rate
- The Economic Slope Method
- Allocation of Lift Gas to a Group of Wells
- The Equal Slope Method - Class Problem
Unloading Design for Continuous Flow
- The Unloading Process (Video Presentation)
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Valve String Designs - Class Problem
- Valve Running and Pulling (Video Presentation)
DAY 5
Gas Lift Systems
- Function, Types
- System Operation
- Optimum System Design
Analysis and Troubleshooting Continuous Flow Gas Lift Wells
- Troubleshooting Tools and their Use
- Two-Pen Pressure Recordings
- Downhole Pressure and Temperature Surveys
- Acoustic Surveys
- Common Gas Lift Malfunctions
- Tackling Challenging Environments
- Downhole Problems
- Distribution and Gathering System Problems
Case Study
- Optimizing the Operating Conditions in a Major Gas-Lifted Field
Participants are requested to bring laptop and scientific calculator for the Class Exercises.
Supported By:
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