Assessment of well trajectory effect on slug flow parameters using CFD tools

Abstract

Oil and gas industry uses different well trajectories to enhance reservoir production rates. However, two-phase flow characterization can significantly change due to the well configuration. This study assesses this effect on slug flow development using computational fluid dynamics. An orthogonal mesh was used to assure well modeling of the slug flow dynamics. Slug flow parameters such as frequency and length were predicted using the VOF model. Four well trajectories were analyzed: toe-down, toe-up, and one-undulation with a hump or sump. Results revealed a vertical–lateral sections interaction, which increases slug length and decreases slug frequency on the horizontal pipeline. Moreover, using a toe-down well over an only-horizontal trajectory causes an increment in the slug length up to two times. Finally, a severe slugging condition was predicted in the toe-up well configuration.

Keywords:

• Slug frequency
• Slug length
• VOF model
• Well trajectory

Acknowledgements

We thank Rosmer Brito and Eduardo Pereyra, University of Tulsa, for their support and advice in the development of this project as well as the use of their experimental data.