- - -

ABSTRACT
UNSOLKXTEE)
~MAR 51979
A NODAL APPROACH FOR APPLYING SYSTEMS ANALYSIS TO THE
FLOWING AND ARTIFICIAL LIFT OIL OR GAS WELL
. .
by
Joe
Eduardo Proano
~~rmit E, Ezown .
A nodal and new approach is presented for applying systems
analysis to the complete well system from the outer boundary of
the reservoiz to the sand face, across the perforations and com-
pletion section to the tubing intake, up the ~~bing string in-
cluding any restrictions and down hole safety valves, the surface
choke, the flow line and separator.
.
Fig. 1 shows a schematic of a simple producing system. This
system consists of three phases: .t]
(1) F1OW through porous medium.
(2) Flow through vertical or directional conduit.
(3) FIow through horizontal pipe.
Fig. 2shows the variouspressure losses that can occur in the sys-
tem from the reservoir to the separator. Beginning from the reser-
.
voir, these are noted as:
API = ~r - Pkfs =
AP2 = Pwf~- Pwf =
AP3 = PUR - PDR =
Pressure
Pressure
Pressure
Loss in Porous Medium
Loss Across Completion
Loss Across Regulator,
or Tubing Nipple
Choke
AP4 = PUSV- PDSV =
AP5 = pwh - PDSC =
AP6 = PDSC- PSEP =
AP7 = Pwf - Pwh =
G
AP8 = Pwh - P~3p =
.
Pressure Loss Across Safety Valve
Pressure Loss Across Surface Choke
Pressure Loss in Surface Flow Line
Total Pressure Loss in Tubing String
Which Includes AP3 and AP4
Total Loss in Surface Flow Line Includ-
ing Surface Choke
2
The v::.OUSwell configurations may vary from the very simple
system of Fig. 1 to the more complex system of Fig. 2, or any Com-
bination thereof, and present day completions more realistically
include the various configurations of Fig. 2.
This paper will discuss the manner in which to interrelate
the various pressure losses. In particular, the ability of the
well to produce fluids willbe interfaced with the ability of the
piping system to take these fluids. The manner in which to treat
the effect of the various components will be shown by a new nodal
concept.
In order to solve the total producing system problem, nodes
are placed to se.,znent the portion defined by different equations
or correlations.
Figure 3 has been prepared showing locations of the various
nodes. This figure is the same as Figure 2 except only the node
positions are shown. The node is classified as a functional node
when a pressure differential exists across it and the pressure or
flow rate response can be represented by some mathematical or phys-
,
ical function.
-,
Node 1 represents the separator pressure which is usually reg-
ulated at a constant value. There are two pressures that are not
a function of flow rate. They are F= at Node 8 and PSEP at Node 1.
For this reason, any trial and error solution to the total system
problem must be started at Node 1 (P
SEP), Node 8 (~r), or both
Node 1 and 8 if an intermediate node such as 3 or 6 is selected as
the solution node. Once the solution node is selected, the pres-
sure drops or gains from the starting point are added until the
solution node is reached. Example problems are worked to show
the nodal system approach. For example, the flow rate possible
can be determined by utilizing Node 8 (~r), Node 6 (Pwf), Node 3
(Pwh), or Node 1 (Psep). The nade selec%ed depends upon which com-
ponent we want to evaluate. The effect of tapered strings, suri~ace
chokes and safety valves can also be evaluated in this ma.ner.
.
In summary, a new (nodal) system has been presented in order
.
., .. ,.
G

3
to effectively evaluate a complete producingsystem.
All of the
components in the well, starting fxom the static pressure (~=)
and ending at the separator, are considered.
This includes flow
through the porous medium, flow across the perforations and comple-
tion, flow up the tubing string with passage through a possib2e
down-hole restriction and safety valve, flow in the horizontal
flow line with passage through a surface choke and on to the sep-
arator.
.
Various positions and/or components are selected as nodes and
the pressure losses are converged on that point from both direc-
tions. Nodes can be effectively selected to better show the effect
of inflow ability, perforations,
restrictions, safety valves,
surface chokes, tubing strings, flow lines and separator pressures.
The appropriatemultiphase flow correlations and equations
for restrictions, chokes, etc. must be incorporated in the solution.
An effective means of analyzing an existing well, making rec-
ommended changes or planning properly for a new well can be accom-
plished by the nodal systems analysis.
This procedure offers a
means to more economically optimize producing wells.
G
,..
,.q,if~t,i.f
4-.
A NODAL APPROACH FOR APPLYING SYSTEMS ANALYSIS TO THE , G i c
FLOWING AND ARTIFICIAL LIFT OIL OR GAS WELL
by Joe Mach, Eduardo pro~~o,
Kermit E. Brown
1.1 INTRODUCTION
A nodal and naw approach is presented for applying systemsanalysis to the complete wel I
system from the outer boundary of the reservoir to the sand face, across the perforations and completion
section to the tubing intake, up the tubing string including any restrictions and down h~le safety
va Ives, the surfsce choke, the flow Ii ne and separator.
Fig. 1 showsa schematic of a simple producing system. This system consistsof three phases:
(1) Flow thraugh porous medium.
(2) Flow through vertical or directional conduit.
(3) Flow through horizontal pipe.
Fig. 2 showsthe various pressure lossesthat can occur in the system from the reservoir to the separator.
Beginning Fromthe reservoir these arenoted as:
API = F - Pwfs = Pressure LQss!n PorousMedium
r
AP2 = Pwfs - Pwf = Pressure LossAcross Completion
~p3 = puR. pDR =
Pressure LossAcross Regulator, Choke or Tubing Nipple
AP4 = P~Sv- PDSV= Pressure LossAcross Safety Va Ive
AP5 = Pwh - PDSC= Pressure LossAcress Surface Choke
AP6 = P
DSC- SEP
= Pressure Lossin Surface Flow line
AP7 = pwf - pwh
= Total Pressure Lossin Tubing Str;ng which includes AP3 and AP4
AP8 = pwh - PSE~ Total Lossin Surface Flow line including Surface Choke
The various well configurations may vary from the very simple system of Fig. 1 to the more
~omplex systemof Fig. 2P or any combination thereof, and present d~y completions more realistically
%
include the various configurations of Fig. 2.
. . . .,
,.. . -2
0 G
This paper will d[scuss themanner in which tointerrelate the various pressure losses. In
particular the ability of the well toproduce fluids will beinterfaced with the ability of the piping
systernt otakethesefluids. Themanner inwhich totreat theeffect oftkevarious components will
beshown byanew nocial conceptas explained infhe next section.
1.2 NODAL CONCEPT
1.21 Introduction
In order to solve the tot~! producing system
the portion defined by different equations or correlations.
problem, nodes are placed to segment
Figure 3 has been prepared showing Iocationsof the various nodes, This figure is
the same as Fig. 2 except ordy the node positions are shown. The node is classified as a functional
node when a pressure differential exists across it and the pressure or flow rate response can be
represented by some mathemati coI or physics I function.
Node 1 represents the separator pressure which is usuaI Iy regulated at a constant
value. The pressure ~ node 1A is usually constant at either gas
suction pressure. The pressure at node 1B is usually constant at
pressurewi 11be held constant at the higher of the two pressures
soIes Ii nes pressure or gas compressor
O psig. Therefore, the separator
needed to flow singIe phase gas
from node 1 to node 1A or to flow single
of our discussion it will be assumed that
wi !1 be designated as nade 1.
.
phase liquid from node 1 to node 1B. For the remainder
he separator-pressure is constant for any flow rate, and it
Notice now that im the system there are two pressures that are not a function of flow
rate. They are *~r at node 8 and P
SEP
at node 1. For this reason any trial and error solution to the
total system problem must be started at node 1 (PSEP), node 8 (~r) or both node 1 and 8 if an inter-
mediate node such as 3 or 6 is selected as the solution node. Once the solution node is selected the
pressure drops o; gains from the s;arting point are added until the solution node is reached. The
fol Iow{ng four examples shew this procedure for the four possible nodes shown in Figure 4. Although
al I nodes are not shown the same node numbers wi I I be maintained as shown in Figure 3.
* ~. can be a function of flow rate or drainage distribution in the reservoir, however for the flow
. .
-3: . . . . .
1.22 Example Problem #l
.
.
Using Node f~ to Find the Flow Rate Possible
(
~ade 8 =
~)
Given Data: Flowing oil well
. .
Separator pressure: 100 psi
Flow line: 2, 300.0 ft long
WOR: O
Depth: 5000 ft mid perf.
GOR: 400 scf/B
F: 2200 psi
r
IPR: PI = 1.0. B/D/psi (assumeconstant)
Tubing size: 2-3/8
Find the oil flow rate using node f$asthe solution point.
Procedure:
1. Select flow rates foratrial and error procedure: Assume flow rates of200, 400,
600, 800, 1000, and 1500 B/D.
2. For each rate start at PSEP= 100 and dci al I the pr~ssure lossesuntil reaching ~
r
at node$. From Fig .4 we note that these losseswould .be AP3-1 + AP
6-3 + &6
or loss in surface flow line + loss in tubing string + lossin porous medium. These
various lossesfor the assumed rates are noted in Table 1.22.
TABLE 1.22
P3-1
15
40
80
130
175
1320
PRESSURELOSSES FOR EXAMPLE #l
t
Horiz. MultitAase Flow , Vertical Mul~iDhase Flow II IPR IIM I m
4
q
SEP P3
200 100 115
400 100 140
600 100 180
800 100 230
1000 100 275
1500 100 8 420
:4_
750
880
1030
1220
1370
1840
P6-3
635
740
850
990
1095
1420
950
?280 400
1630 600
2020 800
2370 1000
3340 1500
G
850
1180
1530
1920
2270
3240
, ..
G .
.
3.
4.
,5.
1.23
from node 8 to
.
4-
Plot thecreated pressure vs. flowrate (Fig. 5). This represents th~system
performance from the separator to ~r.
Plot ~r at the given 2200 psi (Fig. 5).
The intersection of the reservoir pressure Iineand the system performance l;ne
gives the predicted flow rate (900 BOPD).
;
,.
Example Problem#2
Using scdution node #6 to find the flow rate
(fl.w;g b%:
hol~?r-wt
Given data: Same as Example Problem #l
For thfs solution pressure drops must be added from node 1 to node 6 and subtracted
node 6.
Procedure:
(1)
(2)
Since ~be prix!ieied flow rate is already known from Example 1, the same flow
rates will be assumed: 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1500 B/D.
Determine the pressure Ioss from node 1 (sepamtor) tonode6(Pw,,). For each
assumed flow rate stortat node 1 (P
SEP) and add 4P
3-1 + P6-3
The following Table 1.23 shows these results.
I
Assumed
I
Rate
1
I.
400
600
800
1000
1500
TABLE 1.23(A)
PRESSURELOSSES IN FLOWLINE AND TUBING
SEP
100
100
100
100
100,
100
FOR EXAMPLE PROBLE
Horiz. Multi Dhase Flow Vertica 1 MI
I
P
wh
I
P3-1
II
6
115
140
180
230
275
420
15
40
80
130
175
320
750
880
1030
1220
1370
1840
ti~hase Flow
P6-3
635
740
850
990
1095
1420
3. Determine the pressure loss (AP&6) from node 8 (FJto node 6 (Pwf). For
1
a constant PI assumption this can be CUICUIated from the equation ~P84 =
Assumed Rate
PI G
These values are noted in Table 1.23(B).
Assumed
Rate
200
400
600
800
1000
1500
4.
5.
..
1
F
r
2200
2200
2200
2200
2200
2200
TABLE 1.23(B)
P8-6
200
400
600
800
1000
1500
6= wf
2000
1800
1600
1400
1200
700
i .
Piot P6 vs. q from both step 2 and step 3 (Fig. 6). Node 6 is called the intake
node since this pwnt is the i ntake from the reservoir into the production tubing.
The intersection of the PI !ine and the so-called intake curve is the predicted
flow rate for this system (900 BOPD) (Fig. 6). The presentation based on the
selection of node 6 as the solution node is good if it is desired to evaluate
changing Prs or different IPR curves. Notice the answer is the same as Example
1 and this is true regardless of the node selection.
1 ~24 Example Problem f3
Using solution node 3 to find the flow rate [l~ew,tij wet/l?~4d pass+
.
Given Data:
Same as Example Problem #l.
For this solution we have selected the wellhead as the location of the solution node.
Therefore this is a common point at which we add the pressure lossesfrom node 1 to 3 and subtract
pressure lossesfrom node 8 to 3.
Procedure:
1.
2.
Assume the same flow rates as for the previous examples: 200, 400, 600, 800,
1000, 1500 B/D.
Determine the pressure !OSSfrom node 1 (separator) to node 3 (wel Ihead). For
each assumed rate and for PSEP= 100 psi we find AP3-1 and P3 (Pwh). These
values are tabulated in Table 1.24(A).
.
-69
-,,
,
TABLE 1.24(A)
PRESSURELOSSES IN FLOWLINE FOR EXAMPLE PROBLEM %
200
400
600
800
1000
1500
SEP
100
100
100
100
100
1(H3
t
P3-1 or
Hdz. Multiphase F!ow
.. ----
15
40
!!9
I
175
I
329
Ii --
3 = wh
.. .
1
115
14fl
180
230
.-.1
3. Determine t~e pressure loss from node 8 (~r) to node 3 (pwh). For each assumed
rate start at ~r and add AP8-6+4P6-3. These values are tabulated in Table
1.24(B).
TABLE 1.24(B)
PRESSURELOSSES FROM NODE 8 (~/.TO NODE 3 (Pwh)
EXAMPLE PROBLEM 3
I
F-
200
400
600
800
1000
1500
2200
2200
2200
2200
2200
2200
h
6 P*6 3
2000 200
1800 400
1600 600
1400 800
1200 1000
700 1500
4
610
440
450
330
180
P6-3
1390
1250
1150
1070
1020
4. Plot P3 vs. q from both step 2 and step 3 (Fig. 7). Node 3 is called the flowing
wel Ihead pressure (pwh).
5. The intersection of the flow line pressure drop line and the downhole performance
curve is the predicted flow rate for the system (900 BOPD) (Fig. 7). The
presentation based on the selection of node 3 as the solution node is good if it
is desired to evaluate different flow lines or wel Ihead back pressure. Notice the
predicted rate of 900 BOPD remains the same.
7=
9
1.25 Example Problem #4
,
,
,.
Using solution mde #l to find the flow rate.
(iepdab+
Given Data:
Same as Example Problem1.
a
In this example the separator pressure is held constant at 100 psi and is designated as
node 1.
Ther6fore all pressure lossesfrom node 8 (~r) to node 1 (separator) are determined and then
.,
subtracted from node 8.
Procedure:
1.
2.
,,
Assume flow rates of: 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1500 B/D.
For each rate, start at ~
= 2200psiandsubtract ~p8-6+ AP6-3+AP
r ~-1. This
information is noted in Table 1.25.
TABLE 1.25
- ----
PRESSURELOSSES FROM NODE 8 @r) TO NODE 1 (PSEP)
+--, ! :0 ?
Fr
s1 -@is
II .1
1
r
II
. I
P8-6
II
3
From Horizontal
Multiphase Flow
P6-3
1
P3-I
.Illl)
200
I
2200
2000 200
409
6 10
2200
1800 400
600
Ssf)
2200
1600 600
800
450
2200
1400 800
1000 2200
330
1200 1000
! 150(j
180
2200
700 1500
Iyo
[
.

.
Is
.
.. ---
3.
4.
5.
1390
125!)
1150
1070
1020
Plot PI from Table 1.25 VS, q (Fig. 8),
Plot P~Ep
at the given 100 psi (Fig. 8).
The intersection of the separator pressure line and the system performance line is
the predicted flow rate (900 BOPD) (Fig. 8). The presentation based on the
selection of node 1 as the solution node is good if it is desired to evaluate different
separator or header pressures,
Notice that the predicted rate of 900 BOPD remains
the same.
.,,
-8-
., .
1.26 Discussion of Exomple Problems 1.22 Through 1.25
It is important to notice that when starting at the reservoir (node 8), the slope of the
resuIting system curve on the pressure-flow rate diagram at the solution node is zero or negative, his
can be observed clearly in Figures5 through 8. This is expected since any system curve developed by
starting at ~r (regardless of the solution node) i ncfudes reservoir performance in the form of PI ~r IPR.
,.
A pressure-flow rate curve generated by starting at F actually displays the required pressure at the
solutl on node for the reservoir to produce the stated flow rate. For example, the vertical and IPR
curve shown on Fig. 7 showsthat if a flowing we I lhead pressure of 100 psi couId somehow be created,
the reservoir and wel I would produce 1100 B/D.
.
In contrast, notice that when starting at the separator pressure (node l), the slope of
the resuIting systems curve on the pressure-flow rate diagram at the solution node is zero or negative.
This is again sl,ewn clearly in Figures 5 through 8. The
at the sepurator pressure displays the created pressure
pressure-flow rate curve generated by starting
at the solution node for each flow rate. For
example, the flowline curve shown on Figure 7 shows that for a production rate of 1100 BOPD the
created wel Ihead pressure is 300 psi.
.-. ,.
The total producing system wi I I produce only where the created pressure at any node
k equalto
twocurves
the required pressure at that
intersect as shown in Figures 5
node for the stated producing rate. This occurs where the
through 8. Notice on Fig. 7 for 1100 BOPD the required
pressure is 100 psi at node 3 (wel Ihead pressure) and the created pressure is 300 psi. Therefore,
this system wi 1I not produce 1100 B:2PD. Obviously, the rate possible must be the same irrespective
of the node selected to solve the problem. Different nodes are selected for convenience based on
which system parameter is to be studied. For example, supposein our example problem it is desired
know what this well will produce with a 3lD flow line. A new flow line system curve could be
generated and overlayed on F!g. 7 as shown on Fig. 9. Node 3 was selected for the solution node
because of clarity of presentation showing the flow line pressure loss. Notice that the same vertical
and IPR curve applies regardless of the flow line system.,
to
.
.
,,,
.-9-
.
1.3 CHANGES IN FLOW CONDUIT SIZE
1.31 Introduction
Thus far the discussion has pertained to the rather simple system shewn in Fig. 4.
Notice on this system there is only one flow line size and one tubing size. Of course it is possible
and sometimes advantageous to change one of these pipe sizes in the middle of the string ~ To
evaluate a system of this nature, the solutlon node could be placed at the point where the p!pe size
changes.
1.32 Example Problem #5 - Tapered Tubing Strings
5uppcxe in the previous example that for some reason it was necess~ry to set o liner
from near 3S00 through the producing zone at 5000 and this liner was of such ID that 2-3/8 tubing
was the largest size tubing that couId be installed. Let us investigate the possible
increases by insta I Iing larger than 2-3/8 tubing above the liner from 3500 to the
to Figure 10.
Given Data: Same as Example 1.
production rate
surface. Refer I
The solution node (node 5) selected to solve this probienl is located at the tubing
taper (Fig. 10). In this example the pressure drops must be added from node 1 to ncxk 5 and
subtracted from node 8 to node 5. In keeping with the same nomenclature as Fig. 3, we have
designated the tapered connection as node 5.
Procedure:
1. Assume flow rates of 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, and 1500 B/D.
2. Determine the pressure lossfrom node 1 (seprator) to node 5 (taper connection).
For each assumedrate and starting with PSEP= 100 psi we add AP3-, +AP5-3.
Table 1.26 summarizes these results, and both 2-7/8 and 3 tubing are evaluated
above the taper connection.
., . . .
-1o-
TABLE 1.26(A)
PRESSURELOSSES FROM NODE 1 TO NODE 5
G
(EXAMPLE PROBLEM #5)
q
i
2M
i
400
600
I
800
1000
1500
I
SEP
SEP
100
lo f-)
lqo
100
100
109
(2-7/81 tubing)
I
Horiz. Multi has= Flow
? T W l
Vertical Mu Itiohase
3 P3-I 5 P5-3
;i-
140 40 500 360
180 89 690 429
230 13~ 718 488
275 175 820 545
II .1
970 550
II
.
. .
I
1
T-
14f) 40
180 80
230 130
275 175
420 320
3. Determine the pressure
~r = 2200 p~iand subtract AP~6 + AP6-5.
(3 ID tubing)
\
Vertical Mu! tjphase Flow
5 P5-3
~~f) 3n5
475 335
::;
~~o
43f)
78~ . 505
.900 4$0
q____ I
lossesfrom node 8 to node 5. For each rate start at
These results are noted in Table 1.26(B),
TABLE 1.26(B)
PRESSURELOSSES FROM NODE 8 TO NODE 5
(EXAMPLE PROBLEM #5)
\
!
Frem PI From Vertical Multi phase F!ow
F
q , ~
6
: AP8-6
5 P6-5
2r)fl 220f)
.
, 4I ..1 l=.. i
2Qm 209 lmv ;-m
4f)f) 2200 1800 400 13f)f) 500
fiWl 22(10 1600 6f)o 1170
43Q
800 2200 14!M 89 f) lnf)o
1000 2200
400 G
12f)~
l~no ;
820 380
1.500 2209 700 1590 ~; 360 340
G
d
i
i (-;) ;{); j,?<
, ..,.
[ei (* .?]]-,...
4. Plot P5 vs. q from both step 2 and step 3 (Fig. 11).
,
5. The intersection the two performance curves ~t the taper connection predict a
flow rate of about 1020 BOPD for 2.5 ID tubing and 1045 BOPD for 3 ID tubing. Remember for a
2.0 ID tubing string the predicted rate was 900 BOPD.
2.fY ID
tubing string the predicted rate was 900 BOPD. Notice the increase in rate from 2.0 ID to 2.5 ID
is much more significant than the increase in rate from 2.5 ID to 3 ID. As pointed out previously
this problem could have been solved by placing the solution node at any point in the system. However,
this approach can simplify the procedure depending on the manner in which the curves or computer
programs avai fable are formated. This same procedure couId be used if a change in flow line con-
figuration occurs at some point along
1.4 THE FUNCTIONAL NODE
1.41 Introduction
the path of the horizonta I system.
In the previous discussion it has been assumed that no pressure discontinuity exists
across the so!ution node. However, in a total producing system there is usually at least one point
or
node where this assumption is not true. When a
is termed a functional node since the pressure
pressure differential exists across a node, that node
flow rate response can be represented by some physical
or mathematical function. Figure 3 shows examples of
.
functional nodes.
Of course there are many other surface
some common system parameters which are
or downhole tools or completion methods which
couId create pressure drops with flow rate as those shown in Figure 3. However, the ensuing discussion
wi I I be limited to the surface we! Ihead choke. Other system restrictions such as safety valves,
perforations, etc., are discussed in separate publ iccationsby the authors of this paper.
It is important to notice that for each restriction placed in the systemshown on Figure
3 the calculation of pessure drop across that node as a function of
general form.
...
*,
& ~ qn ----------
flow rate is represented by the same
----- .--v-
/*o
1
,. .,
G
-12-
That is, the pressure drop, AP, is proportiona I to the flow rate. In fact, there
are many equations avai labIe in the litemture to describe these pressure drops for common system
restrictions. It is not the purpose of the paper to discuss the merit of the different equations but
rather to show how to use them once the selection has been made, conside;i ng the entire producing
system.
1.42 Surface Wellhead Choke
Refer to Figure 12 for a physical description of the wel
, The same nodes as set out in Figure 3 are maintained.
with a surface choke installed.
Since the wel !head choke is usuaI Iy placed at node 2, this wi 1I be the solution node
selected to solve the problem. It is necessary to solve this problem in two parts. The first part of
the solution is exactly the same as previously shown in Example 3. For the given data used in the
previous examples the
that the vertica I and
(Pwh, Fig. 7) and the
resuIts of this analysis are shovn in Fig. 7. Inspection of Figures 12 and 7 show
IPR performance curve actuul Iy represents the upstream pressure from node 2
horizontal system performance curve actua I Iy represents the downstream
pressure from node 2 ((PD5C,
Fig. 7). Thus far, we have considered no pressure drop across the node
and therefore the predicted rate is where upstream pressure equals the downstream pressure (Pwh =
p~s~).
However, we know the wellhead choke wi 1I create a pressure drop across functional node
2 for each flow rate. This created LP can be ca!cu Iated with one of many pressure drop equations
for choke beans. Therefore, the solution procedure is to find and plot the required AP vs. q from
Figure 7 and overlay the created AP vs. q from the choke bean performance calculations.
EXAMPLE PROBLEM 16- Determine Effect of Surface Choke Sizes Using Node 2 m the Solution Node
Given Data: Same as Example 1.
Procedure:
1. Generate the total system analysis curve using node 2 as the solution node exactly
as don~ in Example 3 (Fig. 7).
i
2. Select arbitrary re~~ired pressure drops across node 2 (AP = pwh -PDSC) and
determine the flow rate for each AP as shown in Figure 13. (Notice Figure 13
is the sam~ as Figure 7 with 4Ps displayed. )
These results are noted in Table 1.27(A).
TABLE 1.27(A)
RESULTSOF EXAMPLE PROBLEM f6
I
1
Ap = ~wh - ~sc
q, B/D
Iflo 800
200
69 f)
300 560
1
400 410
J
,,
3. From step 2 plot the required AP vs. q as shown on Figure 14.
-13-
.
4. Calculate the created pressure drop vs. flow. rate forchoke beans of interest.
The equation used for these calculation sis:
P
=LK
q
(from Gi lbert)z ------.,
wh ,2
-A. -
-z
P
wh =
R
=
c=
-
Flowing we!lhead
GLR, MCF,/STB
pressure, psi
Gross liquid rate, STB/D
Choke bean size, 64ths of an inch
Constant, assume 500 for this problem.
Gi Ibert noted that his formula was good when the downstream pressure (P
Dst)
was. less than 7W0 of the upstream pressure (pwh) or pDSC/pwh ~ 0.7.
Suppose we are interested
choke bean sizes: 16/64,
showing these resuIts.
in investigating wel I performance for the following
20/64, 24/64, 28/64. Table 1.27(B) is prepared
., . . . . . .
b -14-:
.
TABLE 1.27(B)
AP VS RATE FOR DIFFERENT CHOKE SIZES (PROBLEM 6)
=!2=
JDs&&
BOPD From
Fig. 13
From
Ea.2
242
354
457
561
128
140
160
180
370
494
617
741
.35
.28
.26
.24
AP =~ -PD5C
wh
Fig. i.3 Eclo 2
300
500
7WI
900
..
128
160
237
395
553
711
.54
.41
.36
.35
199
235
353
461
200
250
b,
Wh ~-
From
Ap = Dscrwh
Dsc
From
Ci
Fig. 13 ??0. 2
500
700
900
119!)
160
200
250
300
274
384
4~4
6c13
.58
.52
.51
.59
114
184
244
303
r
wh
.? psl
From
Ap tDsc-pw~
.
q.
Fig. 13 Eq. 2
800
1000
1202
227
275
330
322
4f13
484
. 7fl
.68
.68
95
128
154 i
1__.. .i .L. . A_
,
, -1.5-, .
.
The 6Ps calculated are unique to the example sys~emsince the downstream
pressureswere calculated fortheexomple system. Notice that in each casea
check was made to ensure P
s 0;7so that Gilberts equation would
DSCpwh
apply. If this is not the case a subcritical flow
calculate ~? across the choke.
5. From the tables generated, plot the choke bean
Fig. 15.
equation must be used to
performance as shown on
6. Overlay t~e results shown on Figure 14 and Figure 15 (Fig. 16).
Figure 16 c@Ays the total system performance for different wel lhead choke sizes.
The system performance curve shows the required AP for various flow rates considering the entire
system from reservoir to separator. The choke performance curves show the created AP for
various flow rates considering choke performance for different choke sizes. The intersection points
of the created and required APs repr~sent the possible solutions. For example the rate will drop
from 900 BOPD to715 BOPD with the installation of a 24/64 welihead choke.
Figure 17 showsanother presentation that is often used to evaluate wellhead chokes,
The. presentation showsthe entire systemperformance which sometimes is advantageous. The same
techniques discussed in this paper are used to generate this type of analysis. Notice that this
solution gives the same answer.
.
1.5 Summary and Conclusions
A new Cnodal) system has
evaluate a complete producing
been presented in order to effectively
system. All of the components in the
well, starting from the static pressure (~r) and ending at the sepa-
rator, are considered. This includes flow through ~he porous medium,
flow across the perforations and completion, flow up the tubi~g
string with passage through a possible down-hole restrict-on and
safety valve, flow in the horizontal flow line with passage through
a surface choke and on to the separator.
Various positions and/or components are selected as nodes and
the pressure losses are converged on that point from both directions.
Nodes can be effectively selected to better show the effect of in-
flow ability, perforations, restrictions, Safety valves, surface
chokes, tubing strings, flowlines and separator pressures.
The appropriate multiphase flow correlations and equations for
restrictions, chokes, etc. must be incorporated in the solution.
In conclusion, an effective means of analyzing an existing well,
making recommended changes or planning properly for a ne=wwell can
be
to
accomplished by the nodal systems analysis. This procedure
offers a means
more economically optimize producing wells.
.
,. .
s
.
I
,.4
.
z
UJ
1-
U)
>
(n
c!)
z
I
U
to
G
m
C@
0
@l
A
1 OA
z
z
RilIN
Hvi I \\ ML\i\\E!
z
-
ii? = (~sv-pDSC)
t?w; -Pih
BOTTOM HOLE
RESTRICTION,
/
DF1
API = Pr - P~fs = LOSS Ihl POROUS MEDIUM
AP* = P~f~-P~f = LOSS ACROSS COMPLETION
AP~
= pu~- po~ =
II
RESTRICTION
Al?$
01 II
= p~v po~v =
SAFETY VALVE
APiJ
= p~h- ~o~~ =
II
SURFACE CHOKE
&p6
= pose-p~~p =
IN FLOWLINE
APT = P~f -P~h = TOTAL LOSS IN TUBING
AP~ =
Pwh- p~ep = II
FLOWLINE
.
.
.
.-.
FIG. 2 POSSIBLE PRESSURE LOS-SES IN COMPLETE
...
K

1
I
.
,
f-
\
m
h
h
e
-i3
#-
(n
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nl&cs
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d-.
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Lo
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.
.-
.
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,
++
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*+
++
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b++
l.+
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l.++
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v)
w
n
0
z
u)
3
0
a
a
>
L
0
z
0
n.-
HORIZONTAL FLOWLINE
bp6.3=
p~h)
*
NODE LOCATION
@ SEPARATOR
@ p~h
@) Pwf
@ F,
. .
.
.
.-. .. . . .
FIG. 4 NOD E-S FOR SIMPLE- PRODUCING S-YSTE-iih
lSd cJ
o
0
u)
-
.,, .
. .
-
o
0
0
0
o
1-
Z
0
ho
w
IILJ
.
. .
.
cyn
lSd d
n
o
m
o
0
m
d

0 0 0 0
0
0 0 0
CJ
lo
g m
,.
.
G
0
0
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u
o
m
m
?$O
o
0
Ln
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\
I I I I I
c) 0 0
0 0 0.
0
0 0 CJ 0 ~>
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* w
. . . .
lSd J+d
. .
.0
0
0
~
o
0
lo
0
-l
o
0
(9
G
,
o 0
C& o
e
.
0
0
IQ
ctj~s
lSd d
o
0
N
o
0
[
.,
- ..
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1-
C5
L
.
\
0
m
k_\
I
m
0
d-
71 -
n
Q
iw
u)
.
n
0
0
CD
. .
c)
0
0
J
lSd +d
., .*,
G
w
z
i
s
o
al
k
z
jn
w
E
.
..
1
.
,
.
.
AF
#
.
HORIZONTAL FLOWLINE ~~ n .
LINER
I
++
++
++
++
1+
t+
0
12-7/8OR 3
TUBING
2-318
TUBING
dP
NODE LOCATION
%ep
@ TAPER CONNECTION
5
@
1
I
. -. ..... .... .. . . ..- .. . . . . ....
FIG. 10 TAPERED STRINGS
. 2500
.
P
G
2000
500
0
.
-
TAPERED STRING
5000-3500 2 TUBING
3500- o 2-7/8 TUBING
3500- o 3 TUBING
G
TUBING
~ 2- 7/8m
1020 BOPD
-Ji
1045 BOP!)
I I
.
0 500 1000 1500
q., BOPD
FIG. ;l- TAPERED STRING SOLUTION (EXAMP-iE NO. 5)
:
,., ..- r
LLl
$
CJ
I&
u
..
.!
\\
c)
LLl
IC2
d
..
+
i
i
0=
o
z
.
. R.%
.*
. .- ,.
Ptf , Psl
m
o
0
o
0
,-
0
0
-P
0
0
cm
0
0
410
BOPD
+
-
%
-q = 560 0
4
BOPD

q = 690
BOPD

!@
q = 800
BOPD

D
-0
a
.
b
m
0
0,
500
400
300
200
!00
.
,.
.
o
9
t
.
.
.
v
.
,
q.= 900 BOPD AT AP = O
m
1000
q
o, BOPD
1500
.,
. ..-. -. .. . .. . ---- -. .. .... . .+- . ... ---- . . - .
FIG. 14 TOTAL SYSTEMS PERFORMANCE CURVE FOR
400
300
200
~100
0
28/64
*
500 1000 1500 o
qo, BOPD
.. ..... .. . .-..----- _.
FIG. .15 CHOKE BEAN PERFORMANCE
.
.
-
.
500
400
300
200
loo
0
,
.- .
,.
,</
4
.
16164 .
*
e
m
m
. 24/64
.
>
D
28/64
.
o 500 1000
.
q
*, BOPD
. -.
FIG. 16 SYSTEMS PERFORMANCE
i500
. .
.-=- - .-.
FOR VARIOUS
2000
-
Cn
Q
w
a
=
m
m
U&
QD
1500
1000
50C
o
I I I
o 500 1000 1500
q., BOPD
.-
~lGe 17- &jR~AcE - CHOKE ~vA~j~TloN