Journal of Petroleum Research and Studies

Improving the Reliability of Well Log Data Recorded in Oil and Gas Wells through Quality Control Approaches: A Case Study from a Southern Iraqi Field

2024-07-11T08:12:15+03:00

Quality control of well logs has always been an important objective in reservoir studies because of the key role played by well logs as input data. This study aims to make a quality control on well logs data for two wells of Yamama formation in southern Iraqi field to ensuring and enhancing the measurement accuracy. In the beginning, the calibration data of before and after surveys are applied as initial evaluation for the quality of density log in well R-1. Then, depth matching is used to fit the depth of all logs in each well. After that, the comparison between the main and repeat sections is helped to check the repeatability. Finally, all uncorrected logs are environmentally corrected to remove the effects of the borehole conditions. The results show that most of the logs measurements are of the best quality and they are perfect for any analysis due to the study findings that the density log has approximately equal calibration readings, and the depth of all logs in each well is matched thus giving the best accuracy, moreover, most logs have good repeatability except for flushed zone resistivity and caliper logs in well R-2 in addition to the environmental correction is improved the measurements of gamma-ray and neutron logs.

Predictive Study to Mitigate Sand Production through Identifying the Critical Bottom Hole Flowing Pressure and Critical Flow Rate for the Productive Wells

2024-08-13T09:27:58+03:00

In several productive oil and gas sites around the world, sand production remains a significant concern. It has the potential to decrease the recovery of hydrocarbons or entirely cease production, destroy the downhole and surface facilities, and other environmental problems related to sand disposal. These obstacles can lead to increased non-productive time and the annual loss of billions of dollars for petroleum companies. To evaluate the possibility of sand production, a field study in the south of Iraq was carried out. The third pay unit is a crucial sandstone reservoir belonging to the Zubair Formation that has been adopted in this investigation. To achieve the study's aims, offset well logs and relevant core sample data were used to develop a calibrated one-dimensional geomechanical model for the interested region, which serves as the input parameter to predict the onset of sanding, i.e., identify the critical bottom-hole flowing pressure . Then, the inflow performance relationship (IPR) curves were constructed employing constant productivity index (J) and empirical approaches (Vogel and Standing methods) through assuming different values of bottom-hole flowing pressure ( ) and computing the corresponding oil rate. Consequently, the critical oil flow rate ( ) as a function of the value of can be estimated; below these critical values, the sanding will commence. The results demonstrated that, at the perforated point (3356 m), the value of at the start of production was1352.74 psi. Thus, the drawdown area will become smaller or narrower as the depletion grows over time. Furthermore, any depletion or drawdown will lead to the generation of sand when the reservoir pressure is equal to 2735 psi or has depleted around 35% of its initial value. Finally, this study could serve as a reference for sand management, serving as an indicator of the possibility of sand throughout a well's productivity life, thus resulting in a positive economic advantage.

Review and Investigating Different Inhibitors for Mitigating Chemical Interaction of Shale with Drilling Mud

2024-09-26T11:18:57+03:00

Carrying out the well drilling operations without problems is a rare process, especially those that come from drilling the shale rocks, as due to their chemical interaction with the water-based drilling mud. The objectives of this study is to present a review of most types of shale and defines the most important treatments using the shale inhibitors that are added to the drilling fluid to reduce the problem of wellbore instability. To perform a comparison with the literature, two inhibitors (potassium sorbate and potassium chloride) were used as shale inhibitors at a concentration of 4%. The efficiency of these materials was tested by using LST which shows the swelling that occurs to the shale after its interaction with the drilling mud. XRD and XRF tests also have been done to know the types and chemical compositions of the shale samples. A group of studies that proved the effectiveness of inhibitors against shale rocks were also reviewed, combining with the type of shale rocks used in each study. The results demonstrated the necessity of adding inhibition materials to reduce the shale swelling, thus reduction in non-productive time during drilling operations. Potassium sorbate inhibits shale swelling better than KCl. The swelling reached 3.938% when using 4% of potassium sorbate. As for KCl, the shale swelling reached 11.519% at same concentration. Potassium sorbate was chosen because it is an environmentally friendly and biodegradable material and through this study it was tested for the first time in Iraq as a shale inhibitor.

Thermodynamic Modeling of Wax Deposition Phase Behavior for Reservoir Fluid in Southern Iraqi Oil Field

2025-02-26T08:57:22+03:00

Most reservoir fluids contain heavy paraffinic compounds that may precipitate as a solid or solid-like material called wax if the fluid is cooled down. Wax precipitation may cause operational problems when unprocessed well streams are transported in undersea pipelines, in which the temperature may fall to that of the surrounding seawater. Wax may deposit as a solid layer inside the pipeline. With continued transport, this layer will build up and eventually plug the pipeline if not mechanically removed. The need to proactively predict the temperature at which wax will precipitate leads to the development and application of thermodynamic models for such prediction. This study aims to develop a thermodynamic model to predict the wax deposition envelope (WDE), which gives a good idea of the temperature at which wax precipitation occurs. Using a live oil sample from southern Iraqi oilfield, this study used the Soave-Redlich-Kwong (SRK-EOS) model that can predict the specific conditions at which wax precipitation occurs as well as respond to the reservoir fluid. The SRK-EOS results in the Multiflash program were matched with the fluid and wax experimental data. The results pointed out that wax precipitation would happen in tandem with the same production scenario after the temperature dropped.

Analysis of Fault Zone and Fractures in Cretaceous Formations of X Oil Field Using Well Logs and Drilling Operations Data

2025-02-10T14:22:29+03:00

The X Oil Field, located in the Salah al-Din Governorate of northern Iraq. This study investigates the subsurface properties of Cretaceous formations (M, H, K) and Late Jurassic Chia Gara Formations, focusing on fault systems, fracture networks, and lithological changes affecting porosity and permeability. The research integrates well logs, thin rock sections, and drilling data, employing advanced analytical techniques such as petrophysical modeling to delineate subsurface fault zones.

Key findings include the identification and classification of fault zones into core, damage, and non-damage zones using Yamada's Model. Core fault zones exhibit high fracture densities (up to 8 fractures/meter), mixed rock facies, and enhanced secondary porosity values averaging 15%, making them critical conduits for hydrocarbon migration. Damage zones show moderate fracturing (2–4 fractures/meter) with reduced porosity impacts, while non-damage zones serve as stable references. These results were validated through caliper log, gamma-ray log, and drilling indicators like mud loss and penetration rates.

This study provides quantitative insights into fracture density, porosity, and permeability, offering a robust framework for optimizing reservoir management and hydrocarbon extraction strategies. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of fault systems in Cretaceous reservoirs, aligning with similar studies in analogous geological settings. By emphasizing sustainable resource management, this research enhances the economic feasibility of the X field and offers transferable methodologies for fields with comparable structural complexities.

Importance of Dynamic Data in Detecting Reservoir Anomalies, A Case Study

2025-08-28T10:37:48+03:00

The exploitation of oil reservoirs is a critical activity in the energy industry, contributing significantly to global energy needs. Accurate assessment of reservoir properties and fluid characteristics is vital for effective operations in oil and gas reservoirs. In order to reach this principle, static and dynamic data are integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of reservoir behavior. However, it is possible for these data not to yield the same results; in which scenario selecting correct and accurate data is essential. This study tries to reveal the importance and essentiality of dynamic data. A case study alongside its numerous data is referenced to support the importance of data integration, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving reservoir understanding, fluid typing, and reservoir connectivity assessment. By analyzing the real case study, studying the results of static and dynamic data, and investigating their impact on the well’s development path, the undeniable need for dynamic data and their priority is demonstrated. More importantly, this study presents a comprehensive diagnostic workflow for reconciling conflicts between static and dynamic data in highly heterogeneous reservoirs. The workflow consists of systematic data quality control, cross-validation of independent measurements, and extended fluid analysis (LFA) to resolve discrepancies. The novelty of this work lies in documenting the step-by-step approach for diagnosing and resolving data conflicts, rather than only reiterating the established principle of dynamic data priority.

Combustion Performance and Emissions in Multipoint Port Fuel Injection Engines with Liquefied Petroleum Gas Fuel Injection

2025-01-02T11:59:44+03:00

Fossil fuels used in internal combustion engines are some of the worst polluters and harm our environment and this fuel is the highest economic cost; hence the need to use other fuels with lower shared concern is reserved for the ecological impact and the least efficient cost. As such, the researchers have been able to use several other types of low-level fuels such as the Liquefied Petroleum Gas mixing 50, 75, and 100. This study is focused to performance of the liquefied petroleum gas as compared to gasoline and emissions from the four-stroke spark ignition at constant pressure ratio of 10:1, variable speed of 1000–2000 rpm. The indicated volumetric efficiency in this case has negative changes with increasing speed of the engine, and when using liquefied petroleum gas fuel. An improvement in volume efficiency, brake thermal efficiency, emission of gases such as HC, NOx, CO₂, CO and fuel consumption rates show that values have been raised and consumption rates by fuel optimized. The results show an improvement in the fuel consumption, combustion thermal efficiency and other aspects related to the combustion of the liquefied petroleum gas fuel compared to the pure gasoline. The HC, NOx, CO₂, and CO emissions are reduced while operating with liquefied petroleum gas as a fuel.

Preparation and Characterization of Sulfated Zirconia-HY Zeolite Catalyst Supported with Pt Metal for Light Naphtha Isomerization

2025-01-08T19:28:08+03:00

Platinum (Pt) supported on sulfated zirconia (SZ) and HY-zeolite as a solid acid catalyst was synthesized successfully for isomerization reaction using precipitation and impregnation method. The physicochemical properties of the catalyst were characterized using various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformation infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), BET Surface area and pore volume, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The prepared composite catalyst Pt/SZ-HY consisted of high Bronsted acidic sites and Lewis acidic sites. The addition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to SZ increased the surface area and pore volume, resulting in smaller crystal sizes and a narrower particle size distribution. However, sulfated zirconia without MWCNTs proved more suitable for the isomerization reaction due to its high functional group density. The Pt/SZ-HY composite catalyst exhibited high Bronsted and Lewis acidic sites, with a 1:1 weight ratio of mesoporous SZ and HY zeolite. The catalytic performance of the Pt/SZ-HY composite was evaluated in the isomerization of light Iraqi naphtha, yielding a maximum conversion of 70.76 mol% at 160°C, 15 bar, and 1 hr-1 LHSV.

Enhancing Distillation Efficiency at Petroleum Refinery Through Hydraulic Performance Analysis of Atmospheric Distillation Tower

2025-01-02T20:07:02+03:00

Efficient operation of petroleum refineries is crucial for optimizing energy production and economic viability. This study innovatively applies aspen HYSYS Version.14 to conduct a comprehensive hydraulic performance analysis of atmospheric distillation tower trays at Refinery. By integrating real plant operational data, the research addresses pivotal inefficiencies in the distillation process, particularly focusing on mechanical challenges such as tray weeping and flooding. The simulation efforts validate the model against empirical data, showcasing high correlation coefficients for key petroleum fractions, with values exceeding 0.93 for light naphtha, heavy naphtha, and gasoil, and slightly lower at 0.86 for kerosene. The findings highlight specific hydraulic deficiencies in the lower trays of the stripping section and propose precise improvements in tray design and alignment. Implementation of these recommendations is projected to substantially enhance separation efficiency, reduce maintenance frequency, and decrease operational disruptions. This paper contributes a novel, validated methodology for employing simulation tools in troubleshooting and optimizing refinery operations, offering a significant advancement in applying simulation technology to improve the petroleum industry’s sustainability and reliability. The actionable insights derived from this study, demonstrated through the enhanced correlation coefficients, have the potential to revolutionize refinery practices by providing a robust basis for future enhancements.

Corrosion Monitoring and Chemical Control in the Overhead System of Atmospheric Distillation Columns

2025-06-12T23:02:01+03:00

This study investigates corrosion in the overhead system of atmospheric distillation columns, focusing on the role of crude oil properties and chemical additives. Field observations, supported by laboratory analysis, revealed that elevated levels of BS&W, salts, and sulfur significantly contribute to corrosion, mainly due to acidic condensate formation and chloride-induced degradation. Corrosion rates varied with operating conditions and were confirmed by inspection of system components. Chemical treatment effectively mitigated corrosion when key process parameters such as pH and chloride concentrations were optimized. These findings highlight the importance of targeted chemical control to extend equipment life and ensure stable refinery operations.

Comparison Study Performance Between the Photocatalytic Process and Membrane Filtration for Oily Wastewater Treatment

2025-01-27T10:47:50+03:00

In this work, a comparison of performance between the photocatalytic process and ultrafiltration membrane was investigated for removing oil from oily wastewater. The eco-friendly calcium oxide (CaO) was prepared from tomato plant waste as a photocatalyst, and the membrane was prepared from polyacrylonitrile (PAN). The DLS and EDX analyses of the prepared photocatalyst were investigated, and it was noted that the photocatalyst is nanosized and belongs to the type CaO. The contact angle of the PAN membrane was measured, and it was about 68.53°. The impact of the amount of CaO (0–0.35 g/L) and irradiation time (15–150 min) on oil photocatalytic activity was tested, as well as transmembrane pressure (1–3 bar) and operation time (15–60 min) on the removal of oil and flux of water and oily wastewater by the PAN ultrafiltration membrane. The findings demonstrated that when the amount of CaO and irradiation time increase, the oil removal increases, but it slightly decreases as the transmembrane pressure increases, while the permeability of the PAN membrane rises when transmembrane pressure rises and declines as operation time rises. The findings illustrated that the maximum oil removal efficiency (92.19%) was obtained by ultrafiltration membrane compared to the photocatalytic process (80.93%) at optimum conditions (CaO = 0.25 g, irradiation time = 2 hr, transmembrane pressure = 1 bar).

Degradation of Toluene in Treatment of Refinery Wastewater by Photocatalytic Oxidation Technology in a Bubble Column Reactor Using ZnO-TiO2 Composite Nanocatalyst and Packing Material

2025-05-28T11:43:12+03:00

Oxidation bubble column reactors (BCRs) are useful for treating wastewater because of their effective mass transfer and mixing capabilities. However, because of the low oxidation level of the pollutants, the BCRs' ability to remove toluene is restricted. A packing material and a ZnO-TiO₂ composite nanocatalyst in the BCR were used in this study to improve the degradation of toluene. Additionally, the superficial gas velocity (i.e., 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, 2, 2.4, and 2.8 cm/s) was used to assess the gas holdup, pressure decrease, and diameter of the bubble. The optimal superficial gas velocity was determined to be 2.4 cm/s. Using packing materials and a ZnO-TiO₂ composite nanocatalyst in the BCR, a total (100 %) removal of toluene was accomplished at toluene concentrations of 10, 20, 30, and 40 ppm at reaction periods of 50, 60, 70, and 80 minutes, respectively. Additionally, two ZnO-TiO₂ composite nanocatalyst dosages (i.e., 0.04 and 0.12 g/L) were added to the reaction mixture; the ideal dose was determined to be 0.12 g/L. Therefore, four treatment methods (air and H₂O₂) alone, (air and H₂O₂/ packing), (air and H₂O₂/ZnO-TiO₂ composite nanocatalyst), and (air and H₂O₂/ packing/ZnO-TiO₂ composite nanocatalyst) were used to evaluate four toluene concentrations in the BCR (i.e., 10, 20, 30, and 40 ppm). Last but not least, the results gave a clear reaction mechanism explaining the oxides BCR, and the applied treatment process can be employed effectively to remove toluene from wastewater at a cheap cost, with minimal energy consumption, and with a straightforward operation.