Implications of brine mixing in the reservoir for scale management in the Alba field

J. Paulo, E. J. Mackay, N. Menzies, N. Poynton

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper brings the discussion on brine mixing initiated at the 1999 SPE Symposium on Oilfield Scale full circle, and suggests that different scaling regimes may exist in any given reservoir that should impact the scale management strategy. The initial paper by White et al. (1999) identified lower than expected barium levels in many wells in the Alba field, and raised the question of where scale deposition is occurring. A follow-up paper at the same meeting the following year by Mackay and Sorbie (2000) identified from a theoretical standpoint where brine mixing should be expected, and suggested that significant scale deposition may occur deep within the reservoir, particularly where a large proportion of injected water sweeps through the aquifer. The current paper seeks to apply that theoretical analysis to the Alba field, on a well-by-well basis, to establish whether diagnostic tests can identify which wells should be treated conventionally, and which require special attention. Firstly, production data and produced brine compositions are analysed to identify any recurring patterns. Wells are then classified and grouped according to various types based on this analysis. Well properties such as location within the reservoir and orientation to the flood front are then compared to identify whether they can be used to give a similar grouping of wells. Three principal zones are identified, with position relative to the injection wells and the aquifer identified as key parameters. Secondly, the flow patterns around each well are studied using the existing reservoir flow model. Modelling the dynamic mixing patterns throws further light on the differences between the zones, with scale dropout predicted in the aquifer in some areas, and in the oil-leg in others. Recommendations are made regarding the treatment of existing wells and the optimum positioning, from a scale prevention perspective, of any new wells.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInternational Symposium on Oilfield Scale 2001
PublisherSociety of Petroleum Engineers
ISBN (Print)9781555639150
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2001
Event3rd International Symposium on Oilfield Scale 2001 - Aberdeen, United Kingdom
Duration: 30 Jan 200131 Jan 2001

Conference

Conference3rd International Symposium on Oilfield Scale 2001
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityAberdeen
Period30/01/0131/01/01

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geochemistry and Petrology

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