Tech Paper

Water Management Strategy to Assure Conformance Reduce Excessive Water Production and Extend Well Longevity

Published: 08/31/2026

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This study showcases the implementation of a comprehensive Long-Term Water-Cut Optimization Strategy within a mature multi layered brown field under waterflooding development. The primary goals are to address water breakthrough challenges, maintain and enhance oil production rates, optimize water injection schemes to target bypassed oil volumes, reduce the inactive wells, extend the productive life of the field, and ultimately maximize oil recovery. The project outlines key initiatives including piloting tailored to sector-specific water breakthrough mechanisms.

A holistic workflow integrated routine well and sector reviews to monitor water-cut trends and diagnose breakthrough mechanisms, mapping risk zones using performance parameters and logging evidence. Intervention planning prioritized rig and rigless solutions to restore productivity. Screening steps included:

  • Data acquisition (testing and logging)
  • Simulation and feasibility studies for water shut-off (WSO) technologies—hybrid chemical-mechanical solutions and Autonomous Inflow Control Devices (AICDs)
  • Evaluation against criteria for water-cut reduction and economic value
  • Consideration of re-entry and re-horizontalization for non-economic zones

For new infill wells, proactive measures included real-time logging for optimal placement and strategic lower completion designs (passive/smart) to minimize early water breakthrough. Post-implementation performance was tracked through production monitoring and full-cycle evaluations.

The project has yielded successful results and valuable observations for the piloting initiatives of proactive water management approaches and the deployment of targeted water control technologies with key outcomes including:

  • Proactive logging while drilling and sidetrack interventions boosted oil output and reduced water trends by 50% in targeted wells.
  • Restoration of + 5 Inactive strings achieved post water cut reduction.
  • Hybrid WSO trials achieved a 20% water reduction and improved performance, validating broader application.
  • Additional pilot projects and expanded Water Shut Off deployment are planned for 2026.

This integrated strategy, supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration, enhanced oil recovery, reduced inactive strings, minimized artificial lift dependency, and improved field profitability. Continuous performance evaluation and adaptive planning remain central to long-term success.

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