Challenging Status Quo with World's First Fully Automated Well Test Package, Allowing Ultra-High H2S Reservoirs Evaluation

Abstract This paper details the successful deployment of a state-of-the-art, fully automated surface well testing platform in an ultra-high H2S environment. The objective is to demonstrate how this medium-level automation solution enhances safety, improves efficiency, and minimizes environmental impact by automating critical tasks, reducing human exposure to hazardous conditions, and improving data accuracy and reliability. Ultra-high H2S environments pose significant challenges to traditional well testing operations due to the extreme toxicity and corrosiveness of hydrogen sulphide. Addressing these issues, efforts towards fully automated well testing began in 2020 with the deployment of the world's first electrical automated well testing choke manifold. This initiative evolved into the comprehensive system presented, enabling safe and efficient operations previously considered impractical. Leveraging advanced automation technologies, remote operation capabilities, and enhanced safety layers, this paper presents the deployment of the world's first fully automated well test package, integrating all components from the choke manifold to the burners. This integrated system allows for the full control of produced oil, gas, and water automatically or from a safe remote location. The paper discusses specific challenges encountered in this ultra-high H2S environment and how they were overcome through innovative design and deployment strategies. A detailed analysis of operational benefits demonstrates significantly optimized well test duration, reduced downtime, minimized human error, and optimized resource allocation. In conclusion, this deployment in ultra-high H2S environments represents a significant advancement in the scenarios and envelopes where well testing can be safely and efficiently performed. This paper presents the benefits from the first application of a fully automated well testing system encompassing the choke manifold, three-phase separator, transfer pump, surge tank, diverter manifold, and well testing burner deployed as a single, integrated package.