Adopting Operational Best Practices Helps to Rejuvenate a Brownfield Shut-In Observation Well By Deploying Autonomous Inflow Control Valve (AICV) Technology to Control Water, a Case Study

Abstract In line with a growing industry trend and as more wells are completed and retrofitted with inflow control technologies, the impact on production efficiency is becoming increasingly evident. This paper presents a case study on operational modeling, deployment, and well operations best practices workflow. A mature brownfield developed with vertical wells, most of which experienced significant water production (for example high water cut), resulted in uneconomical and inefficient recovery. To mitigate the risk of water production and crossflow issues in an existing well, an operator performed a re-entry and completed the well using an Autonomous Inflow Control Valve (AICV). Well B, a deviated observation well with 988 feet of open-hole length in a sandstone reservoir, had been classified as non-producing for 17 years. The operator sought to convert this well into a production well. However, due to the high water cut in nearby offset wells (approximately 71-74%), production was not feasible without implementing an AICV downhole completion to reduce water production and maximize oil recovery. In March 2024, the AICV downhole completion was successfully installed to mitigate the anticipated water production and enhance oil production. Lower completion with AICV effectively shuts off water-producing zones and stimulates oil-bearing zones, significantly increasing oil output. Post-installation results show a water cut of around 3% and oil production of approximately 1,134 bbl/d. Compared to offset wells, water production was reduced by 98% from 1,632 bbl/d to 34 bbl/d. Additionally, water cut dropped from 71% to 3%, while oil production increased by 72%, from 661 bbl/d to 1,134 bbl/d. This document provides a comprehensive list of recommendations and best practices to ensure the quality of AICV systems throughout storage, transportation, handling, deployment, installation, and well operation. Establishing and maintaining high standards is essential for mitigating operational risks that could lead to environmental, economic, or production-related issues. Key considerations, including design and operational limitations during AICV deployment and subsequent well operations, are thoroughly addressed. This paper serves as an invaluable resource for personnel involved in the deployment and operation of AICV systems. It can be utilized by individuals responsible for storage, transportation, handling, deployment, installation, and operation of AICVs, as well as those developing company guidelines. By carefully following the best practices and recommendations outlined in this paper, operators can ensure the optimal performance and longevity of Autonomous Inflow Control Valve (AICV) completion systems. Implementing these guidelines helps mitigate common operational challenges, reduce maintenance requirements, and optimize production efficiency. As a result, operators can achieve enhanced well performance, minimize downtime, and maximize reservoir recovery, ultimately leading to more cost-effective and sustainable well operations.