Unified Pressure Loss Prediction for Fluctuating Total Gas Liquid Ratio in Gas-Lift Wells: A Revolutionary Novel Method

Abstract In gas-lift wells with highly fluctuating total gas-liquid ratios (TGLR) in production fluid, conventional pressure loss prediction methods often fail, leading to significant uncertainties in well performance diagnostics. This paper introduces a novel, real-time algorithm and correlation-based method to dynamically predict pressure losses, eliminating the need for multiple pressure loss correlations (Moreno et al., 2020). The proposed methodology utilizes the "N" factor, derived from extensive flowing gradient surveys (FGS), to account for shifting flow regimes and slip velocities. Validated through field tests, this invention enhances operational efficiency, bottomhole pressure (BHP) predictions, and well optimization. Additionally, this paper delves deeper into the technological advancements and real-world applications, offering an exhaustive comparison between traditional and novel methods, as well as providing comprehensive industry examples and details to illustrate the theoretical underpinnings of the novel methodology.