Integrated Framework for Proactive Sand Management: Leveraging Offset Well Data, Formation Stability Assessment, and Predictive Sand Transport Simulation

Abstract This paper addresses the challenge of sand production impacting well productivity. Authors propose a novel, integrated approach for proactive sand management that combines offset well performance analysis, geomechanics, and sand transport modeling. This methodology aims to minimize sand production for enhanced well productivity, develop tailored well designs with appropriate sand control methods for specific reservoir challenges, improve understanding of reservoir dynamics and sand transport mechanisms and optimize well production strategies. Our approach leverages the following steps: Offset Well Data Analysis: Production histories, completion types, and reservoir properties of existing offset wells are analyzed to identify factors influencing sand production and successful sand control strategies. Geomechanical Assessment: Separate geomechanical studies are used to assess formation stability under varying drawdown scenarios. This establishes safe operating limits to minimize formation instability and sand mobilization. Tailored Well Design: Based on the understanding of reservoir and sand behavior, well designs are developed with appropriate sand control methods (determined in separate studies) to address the unique challenges of the target reservoir. Production performance analysis: Potential fluid movement between formations is investigated using crossflow analysis techniques. This enhances reservoir understanding and optimizes production strategies. Sand Transport Modeling: Advanced transient simulators are used to build sand transportation models, predict potential sand production and blockage risks for multiple grain sizes and operational scenarios. Proactive measures and targeted interventions are then outlined for these potential situations. This integrated approach offers a new standard in proactive sand management. It leverages offset well data, promotes a deep understanding of reservoir dynamics, facilitates tailored well design, predicts sand transport, and incorporates crossflow analysis. This approach distinguishes itself by combining traditionally separate analyses. It integrates offset well analysis, geomechanics, and sand transport modeling for a holistic understanding of sand management challenges. It incorporates crossflow analysis, previously underexplored in sand management, to enhance reservoir understanding and production strategies. It focuses on proactive measures and targeted interventions for sand transport management. By implementing this comprehensive approach, operators can significantly improve well performance and optimize reservoir development.