Project Abstract

Gas lift optimization is crucial for enhancing the production efficiency of oil wells. This research project focuses on the optimization of gas lift in oil producing wells using the Prosper nodal analysis technique. Gas lift is a widely used artificial lift method in the oil and gas industry to increase the flow of hydrocarbons from wells. The Prosper nodal analysis is a powerful tool that allows engineers to analyze and optimize the performance of oil and gas wells by considering various parameters such as tubing size, gas injection rate, wellbore pressure, and fluid properties. The objective of this research is to develop a systematic approach to optimize gas lift operations in oil wells through the application of nodal analysis using the Prosper software. The study involves the collection of data from actual oil producing wells, including wellbore geometry, reservoir characteristics, production rates, gas lift design parameters, and surface facilities. The data is then input into the Prosper software to build a nodal model that simulates the flow behavior of the well. By analyzing the nodal model, the researchers can identify the key parameters that influence the performance of the gas lift system and determine the optimal operating conditions for maximizing oil production. The nodal analysis helps in understanding the flow dynamics within the wellbore and surface facilities, enabling engineers to make informed decisions on gas lift design and operation. The research also involves conducting sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of varying parameters on gas lift performance. This allows for the identification of potential bottlenecks and optimization opportunities in the gas lift system. By adjusting parameters such as gas injection rate, valve settings, and tubing size, the researchers aim to improve the overall efficiency of the gas lift system and increase oil production rates. Overall, this research project contributes to the advancement of gas lift optimization techniques in oil production through the application of nodal analysis using the Prosper software. By developing a systematic approach to analyze and optimize gas lift operations, this study provides valuable insights for oil and gas engineers to enhance the performance of oil wells and maximize hydrocarbon recovery.

Project Overview

Introduction

Hydrocarbons(oil and gas) are found in the pore spaces of sedimentary geologic formations (reservoir rocks). Once an oil or gas reservoir is discovered and assessed, production engineers begin the task of maximizing the amount of oil or gas that can ultimately be recovered from it. Some reservoir rocks may allow the oil and gas to move freely, making it easier to recover. Other reservoirs do not part with the oil and gas easily and require special technique to move the oil or gas from the pore spaces in the reservoir rock to a producing well. Even with today’s technology, in some reservoirs more than two-thirds of the oil in the reservoir may not be recoverable.
Optimum production of oil from an oil reservoir is the main objective or target of the operators of an oil well in order to meet up with the growing demands of the crude oil. The efficient production of fluids from a reservoir depends on the maintenance of the pressure draw down between the reservoir and the well bore which is the driving force or energy that forces the reservoir fluid (oil) from the reservoir into the wellbore.