Plugged ICDs impede well production
Maximizing recovery in extended-reach horizontal wells requires
multizone stimulation and advanced reservoir fluids management. In homogeneous
formations, significant pressure drops occur as fluids flow from TD toward the
heel of the well, and in many wells, this can prematurely end the well's
productive life and leave substantial reserves untouched. Completions usings
ICDs enable engineers to adjust flow from zones with uneven pressure or early
water breakthrough.
Over time, fines migration led to plugged ICDs and diminished production
in two of the Kuwait Oil Company's wells in the Minagish and Sabriyah fields.
With more than 20 ICDs in each well, Kuwait Oil Company needed to identify and
selectively clean out the problematic ICDs and restore production with minimal
downtime.