Parametric sensitivity studies of gravel packing

Abstract

Several factors determine the success of Alpha-Beta gravel packing procedures in deviated wells. Among others gravel concentration, rheology of carrier fluid and injection rates could be mentioned. Choosing incorrect values for these parameters may end up in an unsuccessful gravel pack that results in part of the sand screen section, or the complete section being exposed directly to sand production. This sand production could lead to various challenges both downhole and top side. In this thesis, three well known gravel-packing models are reviewed. Using the models, several parametric sensitivity studies were carried out to learn the bed height deposition and settling velocity changes. The analysis is based on single and combined effects of parameters. The fluid systems selected are both Newtonian and near Newtonian fluid behaviors.