Generalized horizontal well inflow relationships for liquid, gas, or two-phase flow
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abstract
The analytical models for horizontal inflow performance relationships (IPR) are presented in this paper for different formation fluid types and different boundary conditions. Even though reservoir simulation models may give more accurate and detailed results of oil and gas well production, analytical models are commonly used in the field for quick, practical and reasonable estimation of well performance. The analytical models are especially attractive when working on single well design and performance optimization. Similar to vertical well models, the analytical models for horizontal wells are developed for specific conditions. The IPR equations for horizontal wells are categorized into two boundary conditions; the steady-state flow condition (constant boundary pressure) and the pseudo-steady-state flow condition (no flow at the boundary). For each condition, the IPR equations for oil and gas wells are presented. Two-phase flow, correlations for horizontal well IPR are also presented for the pseudo-steady-state condition. The results from different models are compared in the paper, and the limitations and appropriate applications of the IPR equations are discussed in the paper. For each fluid system, examples illustrate how flow behavior varies with the flow regime. Examples also show the effect of critical parameters on inflow performance for horizontal wells. These equations are invaluable for reservoir and production engineers in their daily practice in horizontal wells. Copyright 2006, Society of Petroleum Engineers.
