A Case Study of Completion Chemical Optimization Through Laboratory Testing

Abstract In our current oil and gas completions there are several completions chemicals that can be utilized and are fit for purpose including friction reducers, biocides, surfactants, scale inhibitors, and clay controls. The objective of this paper and case study is to provide a workflow for optimizing these completion chemicals and provide horizontal well production results to prove the value of the process. The process of optimizing the completion chemical selection is to utilize laboratory testing, including interfacial tension (IFT), contact angle, surface tension, emulsion break testing, capillary suction time (CST), and roller oven testing. In collaboration with the operator several samples are collected including drill cuttings, produced oil, produced water, and source water. These collected samples are tested for performance with several different completion chemistries to assist in determining the optimal value completion chemical package. This paper presents and discusses a case study of this completion chemical optimization process for Canvas Energy on several of their horizontal well completions in Oklahoma. During the lab testing we observed a surfactant that could reduce the surface tension by 49.0%, interfacial tension by 56.0%, and the contact angle by 25.9% relative to the surfactant that had been used on completions prior. Additionally observed in the lab testing was the performance enhancement of clay control with a product that could reduce CST by 37.1% and reduce fines generation by 35%. The goal of this process was to enhance performance of the completion chemical package and add value to the operator. When analyzing the wells production performance versus the offset wells and area type curve, we observed an increase in overall production and performance of the wells with the selected chemicals from this process. In this case study, the recommended and utilized completion chemicals added value through increased production without an increase in cost to the operator.