Accelerating Digital Transformation with Automated Pressure Transient Analysis

This paper outlines the outcomes of a pilot project focused on automating Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA) by utilizing real-time data from Permanent Downhole Gauges (PDGs). The main objective was to enhance the efficiency of well performance evaluation, estimate static pressure, and streamline the identification of potential interventions through a cloud-based digital platform. The scope covered the integration of real-time data acquisition, event detection, automated PTA, and data processing, highlighting the role of digital transformation in improving engineering workflows and decision-making. The pilot utilized a cloud-based platform that automatically gathered real-time pressure data from PDGs installed in active wells. Smart filtration techniques were applied to reduce noise while preserving data signature. The system identified key events, such as shut-ins, synchronized pressure and production data, and initiated automated Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA) when the necessary data was available. Results were validated against traditional methods and formatted for integration with other systems. Key challenges included ensuring compatibility with existing infrastructure, training engineers to adopt new digital tools, and addressing cybersecurity concerns associated with cloud operations. Collaborative work between the multidisciplinary teams from the operator and service provider was essential for refining workflows, incorporating enhancements, and customizing the solution to meet specific operational requirements. This cooperation maximized the solution's effectiveness, ensuring successful implementation. The automation of PTA yielded notable benefits, including more than 50% reduction in manual analysis time. The real-time integration of pressure and production data facilitated ongoing well monitoring and enabled faster identification of potential intervention needs. Smart data filtration reduced overall data volume by 70%, while preserving essential information for accurate analysis. Automated PTA provided quick and reliable insights into well performance, such as estimates of static pressure and flow behavior, which were validated using traditional techniques. The implementation of this digital solution underscored the importance of integrating automation into routine engineering tasks. Engineers gained valuable time to focus on more complex activities, while the system efficiently handled data processing and analysis. The project revealed some initial challenges, such as the need for workforce training and the adoption of secure data protocols for cloud environments. However, these were addressed through targeted training programs and enhanced data security measures. This pilot demonstrated that automating PTA, supported by digital transformation, not only optimizes well performance evaluation but also drives improvements in the overall decision-making process, helping operators to make data-driven decisions faster.