Journal of Petroleum Technology, Vol.52, No.2, 46-47, 2000
Integrated field-development planning for mature oil fields
The Ruhlermoor oil field has been producing for more than 45 years. Current production is characterized by low average oil rates, high water cuts, and increasing sand problems. Even with steamdrive operations to mobilize the viscous oil, total recovery is less than 25%. Treatments such as frac packs and water shutoff were tested, with Limited economic success. Cost-effective infill drilling was identified as the most economical means to accelerate production and increase reserves in the field. By upgrading a field workover rig, total drilling and completion costs were reduced by 60% compared with conventional-rig use.