Optimization Principles for Horizontal Wellbore Length

Abstract

Abstract: At present, the optimization of horizontal wellbore length is based on Dikken's principle in most cases, that is, the optimal horizontal wellbore length is the length that the production decreases by 20% due to the friction loss. A formula is derived from the mathematic model of optimal horizontal wellbore length to calculate the ultimate output for horizontal well in definite reservoir and fluid condition. Integrated with case analysis, the rationality of Dikken's principle is analyzed. It is suggested that the horizontal wellbore length calculated by Dikken's principle cannot reach its full potential in reservoir development, and with the contrast to the ultimate output, the recovery percent is relatively low. This paper proposes the calculation method for optimal horizontal wellbore length on the basis of the ultimate output principle and analyzes the relationship between such two optimization principles. The study is of significance for guiding horizontal well development and optimization design.

Key words: horizontal well, length, optimization design, ultimate production

CLC Number:

TE243

WANG Da-wei, LI Xiao-ping. Optimization Principles for Horizontal Wellbore Length[J]. Xinjiang Petroleum Geology, 2011, 32(2): 163-166.

References

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