Operational Excellence and Multidisciplinary Integration Lead to A Cost Optimized and Timely Managed DST Operation in Newly Developed Oil Field in Gulf of Suez

Abstract

Abstract This abstract presents a detailed case study illustrating the successful integration of multidisciplinary team members during the design, preparation and execution for a critical decision Drill Stem Test (DST) operation for a newly drilled sand body in a recently developed mega projects at Gulf of Suez Petroleum Company (GUPCO) allowing both the technical team and the management to properly select the suitable production methodology without affecting the strategic development plan for the field. The test aims to aid the decisions on whether (1) complete the well solely to the subject reservoir or not, and (2) deepen next planned wells to target the subject sand, adding around $2MM per well plus operational risk. Integration and proper tool selection were key to success, and have led to optimizing the operational rig days and thus the overall operation cost, saving the company more than $500M, without compromising on data acquisition requirements. During the design phase, multiple-disciplinary meetings took place to communicate objectives and clarify operational procedures amongst all involved parties, including extended team from Almansoor Petroleum Services and other service companies. The team examined several options during selection of the best operational procedure and the right equipment for it. Comparison between alternative options and compatibility of different tools and equipment from different service companies was assured to generate an integrated solution without compromising the predefined job objectives. Strategic objectives and technical and operational objectives were clearly defined and assured during each stage of the journey starting from the design phase through the planning, the execution, and post job analysis and reporting. In conclusion, this case study demonstrates that investing in efficient front-end loading, thru effective pre-planning, is good business and translates to clear value in both short- and long-terms. Also, it shows that introducing new technologies facilitate and simplify the operation saving the time and the cost. The use for robust and well integrated tools assure the results and lead to successful operation. Using the decision trees with proper task assignment techniques and establishing a proper communication protocol among different disciplines allows a smooth operation and less miscommunications. In addition, this has set a prototype for similar jobs in Gupco in the future. Applying the DST showed the true value of information that led to saving much more money than the cost of the test itself. Pushing the technology to the limit is mandatory to gain knowledge and experience to improve the workflow for future similar operations. Establishing a methodology and developing a design philosophy sets the road for overall company development.