A Novel Approach to Simulating the Performance of Autonomous Inflow Control Devices

Abstract

Improving the efficiency of oil recovery is a crucial necessity in the current energy landscape. The widespread adoption of advanced wells, equipped with Autonomous Inflow Control Devices (AICDs), represents a leading strategy for this purpose. However, the absence of a predefined and straightforward option for modeling advanced wells in dynamic multiphase flow simulators like OLGA® poses a significant challenge. To address the issue, this paper proposes a novel approach based on developing a mathematical model derived from experimental data characterizing the AICD behavior. The Algebraic Controller option in OLGA is then leveraged to integrate the AICD effects into the simulation seamlessly. The proposed methodology undergoes rigorous testing on the PUNQ-S3 reservoir model as a benchmark case study with Water Alternating Gas (WAG) injection. Results demonstrate that AICD has a better water reduction rate of 36.3% and 3.7% compared to OPENHOLE and ICD. This result also indicates the accurate modeling and simulation of AICD performance in the software, showcasing the effectiveness of the developed mathematical model. Comparative analyses of advanced wells with different Flow Control Devices (FCDs) underscore the conclusion that AICDs significantly enhance oil recovery efficiency, thereby maximizing profit and minimizing the carbon footprint.