KAPPA Engineering - v4.

02 - September 2006

KAPPA

www.kappaeng.com

KAPPA is primarily a petroleum engineering software company.

Our integrated software platform, Ecrin, is the industry standard for Dynamic Flow
Analysis. Ecrin includes modules for Pressure Transient Analysis (Saphir) and
Production Analysis (Topaze). Soon we will integrate our freestanding production
log analysis module (Emeraude) and release two new modules for nodal analysis
and full field reservoir simulation.

To seamlessly connect and process client data in the Ecrin modules KAPPA has
developed Diamant Master, a server solution that centrally processes permanent
gauge data and shares production data, technical objects and documents in a
coherent environment for real time reservoir management.
Founded in 1987, KAPPA now has over 3000 active commercial software licenses,
used by over 300 companies worldwide. KAPPA is independent; 80% owned by its
employees. Our main development office is in Sophia Antipolis, France and we have
regional offices in Houston, Perth and Bahrain. KAPPA is present in ten other
countries with local offices and agents.
KAPPA offers complementary Training and Consulting Services (TCS) based near
Gatwick, UK. We train hundreds of engineers every year in our chosen disciplines.
KAPPA is a Microsoft Certified Partner.

Table of contents
KAPPA
Ecrin

PDG Reservoir Surveillance

Pressure Transient Analysis

Production Analysis

20

What is coming next?

30

Production Logging

6
3

10
24

Ecrin

Ecrin - Main window with a PTA (Saphir) and a PA (Topaze) session running

An integrated platform for Dynamic Flow Analysis

Until recently KAPPA was developing PC applications aimed at being

best-in-class. This objective still stands inviolate, but users told us
they needed ergonomic tools that would integrate, navigate and
communicate within a single program in order to save engineer time
by avoiding process duplication, painful import/export and by cutting
training time. As a result, in our fourth generation of software
products, we integrated our applications into a single environment
called Ecrin.

In 2005, Ecrin v4.0 integrated the three modules required to process

Permanent Downhole Gauge (PDG) data: data management
(Diamant), Pressure Transient Analysis (Saphir and Saphir NL) and
Production Analysis (Topaze).

In 2006 KAPPA simultaneously released Ecrin v4.02 and a server

application gathering, filtering and sharing PDG and production data
(Diamant Master). Diamant Master is operated by the Diamant
module in Ecrin. In complement, recent industry developments on
Deconvolution were integrated in Saphir and enhanced multiwell
simulation was added to Topaze.
The process continues. A nonlinear version of the PA module (Topaze
NL) is under development. The integration and enhancement of our
production log analysis software (Emeraude) is taking place, and in
the process we are developing new modules such as reservoir
simulation (Rubis) and Nodal Analysis (Amethyste).

Why Ecrin?
The inital goal of Ecrin was to concentrate the processing
and analysis of PDG data into a single environment. But
users needed more. PVT, models and general information
are common, and it is difficult to excuse having to load the
same information repeatedly for different applications;
especially from the same software vendor.

Licenses and Readers

The Ecrin user may turn on and off any module without
license restriction. Ecrin, when started, checks the license
information for each enabled module from a hardware
key, FlexLM or network.

If the module is licensed it will be fully executed. If it is not

licensed it will execute in Reader Mode. This will allow the
engineer to open the corresponding files, print, export,
run a report, and even copy individual objects into
licensed modules (the opposite is not true as a Reader
cannot modify anything).

In other words engineers dealing with permanent gauge

data and performing pressure transient and production
analysis wanted this to be done in the same application.

For example, if you have a Saphir license and no Topaze

license you will be allowed to open Topaze document
and, using the browser, drag-and-drop the data, PVT,
model, etc into a Saphir document.

Leave my Saphir alone...

Conversely, engineers only interested in one KAPPA
product may not want to have a workstation environment
forced upon them. So Ecrin can also be installed as a
single software product, say Saphir. Even after
installation the user may switch Ecrin behavior between a
standalone application and an integrated workstation.
Why the name Ecrin?
You will have noticed that the names of our software
gemstones are spelt incorrectly. In truth it is even worse
as they are spelt in French (eg Saphir instead of
Sapphire). The main reason was to avoid trademark
problems in an industry that mostly uses English names
and to avoid boring acronyms.

Ecrin is the French word for jewellery box. With Ecrin you
buy the gemstones and we offer you the box.
Ecrin Browser
Switching between two small applications within a big one
is a bit ho-hum. In reality this can be done between any
Windows applications with a simple Alt-Tab.

What is interesting is the ability to share and transfer

objects. This is done using the Ecrin Browser. Put simply,
if there is, for example, a PVT object available in Saphir,
through Ecrin this can be dropped into Topaze. You need
only enter the PVT data once.

Ecrin toolbar with a mixture of licensed and Reader modules

Operating Diamant Master

The Diamant / Diamant Reader module in Ecrin can fully
operate Diamant Master (see next section). Data and
technical objects stored in the Diamant Master database
may be created, edited, deleted and dragged-anddropped into any other Ecrin module. The privilege to
perform operations in Diamant Master is not related to the
Diamant licensing but to the privilege associated to
individual users.

Another example might be the 2D-map. Sitting at the top

level in Ecrin this would be available to all applications by
simple drag-and-drop.
This can go as far as transferring a complete Saphir
document into a new Topaze document obtaining the
information, pressures, rates and model on a single click.

Ecrin releases
In 2005 Ecrin v4.0 integrated a data module (Diamant), a
PTA module (Saphir) and a PA module (Topaze) to
constitute the kernel of our workflow to process PDG
data. It transpired that the workflow was right but a server
application was needed to share the filtered data within a
workgroup. This was the origin of the v4.02 project, which
integrated Diamant Master and two technical
developments
that
were
considered
urgent:
deconvolution in Saphir and a pressure controlled
multiwell simulation in Topaze. With Diamant Master in
place, the expansion of Ecrin continues with additional
features to the existing modules, the integration of PL
(Emeraude) and the coming release of a reservoir
simulator and a nodal analysis package (see page 30).

Ecrin browser

PDG
Reservoir Surveillance

Diamant main window

Permanent Downhole Gauges (PDG) are a remarkable source of

information of both long term production data and the capture of
occasional build-ups that may be described as free well tests. Data
are acquired at high frequency and over a long duration. The down
side is the large number of data points gathered, which can amount
to hundreds of millions per sensor, far beyond the processing
capability of todays fastest PC. There are a number of challenges:
storing and accessing the raw data, filtering it and then transferring
this to the relevant analysis module and finally sharing both filtered
data and analyses.

Diamant Master is a server solution that addresses all of these

issues. Installed on a dedicated machine, it permanently mirrors raw
data for fast processing, reduces the number of points with wavelet
based filtration, stores and shares the filtered data and exports
filtered data sets to third party databases. It also stores and shares
analyses and various files amongst engineers of the same workgroup.

The Diamant module in Ecrin works in two ways:

In the free Reader version, Diamant operates Diamant Master and
transfers data and technical objects between Diamant Master and
the Ecrin analysis modules.
As a licensed module, Diamant locally reproduces some of the
features of Diamant Master for the smaller operators, working nonreal time and without the sharing capability of Diamant Master.

Handling PDG data

Modern PDG Data processing

Data preview: a quick data scan of one point in every

thousand gives the user an overview and easily identifies
anomalies. A selection on the data window can be done
and outliers are immediately discarded.

What PDG data provides

PDG acquire pressure data at high frequency and over a
long duration. A typical data set, as shown below, will
include two types of information; each spike is an
unscheduled shut-in that may be treated as a free well
test for Pressure Transient Analysis. In addition the long
term global producing pressure response, ignoring these
peaks, can be used in association with the well production
to perform Production Analysis and/or history matching.
The data is there and it is already paid for. It is simply a
matter of getting at and interpreting the data.

Filtration setting: within the load window an initial

sample of a fixed size, typically around 100,000 points or
one week of data, is extracted. In an interactive and
iterative process, the software equivalent of running a
pencil through a noisy path of data the engineer visually
sets the wavelet filter. A post-filtration based on a
maximum t and p is then used to reduce the number of
points of the de-noised signal.

Initial sample

Filtered data

Global load window

Current load window

Load: the data is loaded in overlapping increments.

During the load the user can visualise the overall picture,
with the result of the filtration since the start and the
filtration on the current increment. At any time the process
can be interrupted and the filter parameters modified.

Typical PDG data response gathered over two weeks

Wavelets filtration
Nice idea, one not so little problem; the available data is
vast and growing. For one single gauge there are typically
3 to 300 million data points. This will bring even the
fastest of todays PCs to a grinding halt. But we need both
short term high frequency data for PTA and long term low
frequency data for PA. To obtain both in the same process
KAPPA adapted a wavelet algorithm, acting as a high
pass filter close to the pressure breaks typical to a shutin and as a low pass filter on the remainder of the data.
This filter will typically divide the number of points by 100
without loosing significant information.

Update and partial reload: the process maintains a

persistent link to the original data source. For each
gauge, regularly or on user request, the process reconnects to the data source and then loads and filters
incremental data using the filter as set for the particular
gauge. It is also possible to change the filter setting, for
new data or retroactively, or to partially re-populate a data
segment over, for example, an identified build-up with a
completely different filter level or even no filtration.

Data analysis: filtered data can be transferred by drag

and drop to an analysis module. Shut-ins are analysed
and compared using the PTA module (Saphir) while
producing pressures will be history matched using the PA
module (Topaze).

Wavelets denoising: (1) raw data = 10,000 points;

too low (2), too high (3) and selected (4) thresholds;
(5) post-filtration; (6) filtered data = 70 points

Once the filter is set, DM will filter as a background task,

regularly updating the filtered channels as soon as
sufficient new points have been mirrored. The filtered
data is stored in the local DM database to be
subsequently sent to Ecrin analysis modules on a single
drag and drop. The filtered data may also be exported to
a third party database. It is possible for the Ecrin users to
return to an old part of the data and request DM to reload
the data in the corresponding time range with a different
filter or no filter at all, hence locally repopulating the
filtered data whenever needed. Diamant Master also
stores all types of KAPPA technical objects and files in a
hierarchic and intuitive structure, in order to be shared
and re-used by Ecrin interpretation modules.

Workflow using Diamant Master

Diamant Master as seen by the end user
A typical workflow using Diamant Master (DM) is shown in
the figure below. DM is a permanent process installed on
a dedicated machine running Windows 2000 or 2003
Server. Engineers operate DM from Diamant in Ecrin. A
Diamant license is not required to operate DM. Even as a
Reader, Diamant has full control of DM; privileges and
restrictions are only associated to the users identified by
their Windows login names.

Loglog plots
before and after
a partial reload

Diamant Master Workflow

For the end user the interface is similar to a local Diamant

session, however all operations are performed and
shared on the DM server. Diamant Master, at all times,
remains connected to the original data sources from
which it sequentially imports the raw, unfiltered data.
From Ecrin, users with the correct privilege can navigate
the input database and indicate which tag(s) should be
imported. Data is mirrored from the raw database to a
local, fast access format (BLI). At the start of deployment
DM will remain in an infinite loop in order to retrieve the
legacy data. Once DM has updated a given gauge it will
regularly contact the new data and load on a timer set by
the DM administrator. For each mirrored data set, users
with the right privilege may create one or several filtered
channels using the wavelet algorithm and post-filtration
previously described.

WEB access
Diamant Master raw and filtered data are exclusively
created from the Diamant module in Ecrin, and Diamant
remains the best way to handle data, technical objects
and files when using KAPPA applications.

However these can also be accessed from an Internet

browser by connecting to the DM server IP address or its
name in the domain. The engineer can view the status of
the different processes and gain access to the data tables
and technical objects stored by Diamant Master.

It is possible to recover the filtered data in Excel format

without using Ecrin. An ActiveX control can also be loaded
to navigate the data structure in the same browser
environment as Diamant.

Diamant session in Ecrin operating a Diamant Master field

Some Diamant functionalities from an ActiveX control

Each solution would require a specific adaptor to navigate

and access the data. KAPPA has implemented a unique
database protocol (EDBI) that permits the connection to
customized adaptors. In most cases the adaptor will be
written by KAPPA. Each adaptor is delivered as a DLL
that includes the data access and the user interface to
navigate the database. It acts as a plug-in.

Diamant Master administration

The WEB service is also used to administer Diamant
Master. In the administration part of the DM local site,
new database adaptors can be added, users can be
created or deleted, user privileges are controlled,
individual processes can be started, monitored and/or
killed. The database can be cleaned, and the different
timers and control operations can be modified.

At the first connection, Ecrin will automatically download

the plug-in from Diamant Master and the user will
navigate without further installation. The database
interface also has adaptors to export the filtered data to
external client databases.

Mirror, Filter and Calculations: When an Ecrin user

decides to mirror PDG data or to create new filtered data,
the server will store the new instructions in the KAPPA
database. The mirroring process (DMMP) and the filtering
process (DMFP) are independent. In their operation cycle
they regularly check their lists of tasks. The calculation
process (DMCP) creates and permanently updates tags
that are derived from other tags, for example the
summation of production at well group and field levels.
Virtual metering simulation of rates from pressures using
a Topaze model, will be accessible in a later version of
Diamant Master.

WEB based administration of Diamant Master

Diamant Master processes

The diagram below shows the processes that constitute
Diamant Master. These processes operate continuously
and independently.

KAPPA database: Diamant Master stores objects and

field information in SQL Express installed by default
with Diamant Master. However it is possible to store DM
data on a higher level of SQL server or under Oracle.
Raw and filtered gauge data are stored in fast access files
(BLI), only file pointers are stored in the database.

Server process: The interface between the KAPPA

storage database and any other DM module is controlled
by the server process (DMS), the central process of
Diamant Master. It interfaces with Ecrin clients using
DCOM. It controls the link with the WEB service and
stores instructions to the other processes in the KAPPA
database ensuring that simultaneous requests from
various users remain consistent. It protects data locked
by a user against possible interference from other users.

Workflow using Diamant only

For very small workgroups, the Diamant module in Ecrin

has a subset of Diamant Master PDG capabilities. The
database connection (EDBI), and therefore the ability to
access filtered data from various sources is the same.
Mirroring is allowed but incremental loads are triggered
by the user. The filtration process is identical but data are
stored in a local Diamant file. Direct sharing is not
possible however filtered data may be exported to files.

The simplified PDG data process of Diamant is shown

below. It is not necessary to acquire Diamant in order to
operate Diamant Master, unless local and independent
data processing is required.

Diamant Master processes

Database interface (EDBI): The beauty of standards is

that there are so many to choose from. So it is in the Oil
Industry; there is no standard way to store PDG data.
There are many providers, and each has their own data
model. It is common for Operators to have several
providers and hence different data models will co-exist.
Most databases have low level access (ODBC, OLEDB,
OPC, etc), but this is, at best, cumbersome for end users.

PDG data workflow in Diamant

Pressure Transient
Analysis

Saphir main window

Saphir was first developed eighteen years ago by two engineers who
needed a tool for their own interpretation work. Since then Saphir has
grown to a dominant position with over 2000 commercial licenses
across operators, service companies and consultants alike.

The reason for this wide acceptance was the ease of use and the
technical decision to converge modern methodology with increasing
PC processing power. The Saphir methodology has always been based
on the Bourdet derivative as the main diagnostic tool, complemented
by matching the measured data to the model taking into account the
detailed production history.

The ever increasing processing power of PCs has enabled us to

aggressively expand the technical capability of Saphir. This has
resulted in the development of extensive and fast numerical modeling
capability, extended to nonlinear problems (Saphir NL p.18), and
more recently deconvolution.

Simultaneously the testing world has changed. Operators need

transient data analysis but are reluctant to test in the classical sense.
Today's engineers have to grab what data they can, beyond normal
well test operations. This requires particular processing and additional
modeling capabilities, permanently updated in Saphir.

10

Main additions in v4.0 (2005)

Saphir was integrated as the PTA module of Ecrin. Using
the shared browser, drag-and-drop of technical objects
between documents from the same or different modules
became possible. A sensitivity option in the control panel
matched the data with multiple ranges of parameters of
the selected model in the same interpretation tab.
wavelet filtration was added at load time, with some
database (ODBC, OLEDB) load capabilities. The creation
and editing of the rate history was also improved. New
numerical models included limited entry, fractured and
horizontal wells. Horizontal and vertical anisotropies and
multilayer reservoirs with crossflow permitting multiple
wells and partial completions were added. It was also
possible to visualize geometries in 3D. Analytical
models could account for horizontal anisotropy and
Saphir NL could handle unconsolidated formations with
reversible / irreversible between porosity / permeability
and pressure relations

Interpretation using the numerical module

User-friendly software with a powerful kernel

Very short training, no retraining for occasional users
Software under constant development
Methodology based on the Bourdet derivative
Modern deconvolution (v4.02)
No limitation to the number of gauges or data points
Real time interface with acquisition systems
Powerful wavelet filtration for production data
Extensive analytical model catalog
Unique 2-D numerical module extending the modeling
Key features

Local 3D refinement
limited entry well

capabilities to situations with arbitrary outer boundary

shapes, any fault trajectories, composite zones, etc
Unlimited number of analyses on different gauges,
build-ups, models and/or model parameters
Fast and robust optimization routine
Gas material balance correction for closed systems
Artificial Intelligence based model adviser
Free Reader for reporting and exporting
24-hour on-line and telephone technical support
Extensive training and consulting services
Real gas and real dead oil diffusion (Saphir NL)
Non-Darcy flow (Saphir NL)
Water+Hydrocarbon 2-phase flow (Saphir NL)
Water injectors in oil or gas reservoirs (Saphir NL)
Unconsolidated formations (Saphir NL)
Simulation with minimum pressure control (Saphir NL)

3D cross-section
multilayer crossflow
with two wells open
in different layers

Main additions in v4.02 (2006)

The main focus of Ecrin v4.02 was on the operation of
Diamant Master and its compatibility with all Ecrin
modules, including Saphir. However Saphir v4.02 had a
major enhancement with the integration of recent
developments in deconvolution. This method is
presented on page 15 of this document. A new vertical
interference external model to match the observation
probe of a formation tester was also added.
Build-up
response

Deconvolved
response

2-Porosity PSS - Picking the transition

11

QA/QC
The QA/QC plots display all the loaded gauges. They can
be synchronized interactively or automatically using
nonlinear regression. For any plot, the difference between
all gauges and a selected reference is dynamically
calculated, and serves as a basis for detailed analysis of
wellbore effects such as phase segregation. QA/QC can
be used to correct reservoir trends, analyze gradient
surveys and correct tidal effects.

Feature details
Data Load and structure
Saphir can load an unlimited number of data points from
an unlimited number of gauges, and individual production
history from an unlimited number of wells. Data input can
be made from the clipboard, ASCII (flexible format
description), P.A.S. files, databases using ODBC and
OLEDB, keyboard or a real time interface with acquisition
systems. Data can also be loaded by drag-and-drop from
any other Ecrin document. For large data sets, wavelet
filtration can be applied at load time. A Saphir document
is organized in a well-defined hierarchy visualized with
the Data Browser. Whilst analyzing, if several gauges
have been loaded, it is possible to switch the active
gauge, or use several gauges simultaneously. With a
single gauge selected, multiple production, injection
and/or shut-in periods can be considered simultaneously
and displayed together on all relevant plots.
Rate editing
The tested well production history may be adjusted
graphically or in a spreadsheet. A comprehensive set of
editing facilities includes insertion, deletion, merging,
splitting and synchronization. Graphical synchronization
may be set to cursor position, closest data point and
intersection of two user defined straight lines. Other
features include the creation of slug rates from pressures,
adaptive averaging, and refining the production history
from pressure breaks using wavelets. Production events
(drawdown, build-up, etc) are automatically identified
when the rate history is loaded then displayed with a clear
naming convention.

QA/QC

Selecting data for analysis

After loading and editing data, a gauge and a production
or shut-in period are selected and automatic semilog and
loglog plots are created. A Saphir document can contain
multiple gauges and, during the analysis, the user may
dynamically change the gauge or simultaneously display
several gauges on all plots. Similarly, several build-ups
can be compared. The Bourdet derivative is used as the
main diagnostic tool. Analysis relies on matching data
with a model response generated for the full rate history.
Since version 4.02, it is possible to extract a deconvolved
version of the selected data. The deconvolution algorithm
and method are detailed on page 15.
Selecting data with
Deconvolution

Edit rates

Data editing
The user may select all or any part of a pressure data set
either from the table display or graphically (box, time
range, data range, individual points, search criteria, etc).
A selection processing toolkit enables deletion, postfiltration, global arithmetic operations, removal of outliers,
copy to clipboard, averaging, and wavelet denoising.
Edited data may be stored as a new gauge hence
preserving the original.

Extraction and matching of multiple build-ups

12

Analytical and numerical models

Saphir has a wide range of built-in analytical well,
reservoir and boundary models (see technical
references). Constant or rate dependent skin, constant or
changing wellbore storage may also be added. Additional
external models may also be dynamically connected,
either from the KAPPA website (see technical references)
or independently developed by a third party. Pick options
are offered for most parameters for a first estimate by
pointing to a characteristic feature of the model on the
derivative plot, eg the time when a boundary effect
causes the derivative to depart from IARF.

Material balance
When an analytical or a numerical model is used for a
closed reservoir, average reservoir pressure is calculated
and displayed. For gas, the average pressure, obtained
from a p/Z calculation, is used at any simulated time to
calculate the reference gas properties, hence correcting
the model response for material balance.

Gas material balance correction

Changing well
With the changing well option, the user can assign a
different well model to different phases of the production
history whilst the reservoir and boundary conditions
remain the same. An example of this application is in pre
and post-frac tests, where the changing model will offer a
unique and consistent treatment of the total response.

Model menu

Well Intake
This option is used to define an intake model that Saphir
can run in conjunction with the reservoir model to
simulate the pressure at gauge depth, in particular at
surface. As the modification is part of the model, it can be
changed as required, and possible alternatives can easily
be compared. Well intake correction is also integrated in
the nonlinear regression.

Multilayer analytical models

Saphir integrates a comprehensive multilayer option with
an unlimited number of commingled layers. Each layer
has its own initial pressure, and the engineer may select
any standard or external model. All layers are connected
to a single wellbore. Individual stabilized and/or transient
rates can be loaded and associated to any combination of
contributing layers. The model simulates the pressure
response and the combination of layer rates that were
loaded. It will allow simultaneous optimization on both
pressures and layer contributions.

Multilayer interpretation

Well intake

13

Multiwell analytical models

Analytical models for homogeneous and double-porosity
reservoirs and various boundary effects can account for
the interference of other wells. In the model menu, the
user may decide to take into account, or not, the influence
of these wells. Comparing the model with, or without, this
interference will allow the user to decide whether nearby
wells had a significant impact on the transient response.
These models also account for horizontal anisotropy.
Improving, comparing and sensitivity analysis
After model generation, nonlinear regression is used to
optimize the model parameters. Regression may be
automatic, or the user may control the list of variable
parameters and acceptable parameter ranges.
Optimization may be performed on the loglog plot or on
the whole production history. Confidence intervals may be
displayed at the end of the regression process. Sensitivity
analysis may be performed by running the same model
for different ranges of parameters. Multiple analyses may
be overlaid and compared on all plots. A loglog
comparison across multiple files is also possible for buildups years apart or with nearby wells.

IPR plot

Exporting
Any document data can be sent to the clipboard or
exported to ASCII, Excel and dBase files. The export
option provides direct access to the candidate data,
including information, PVT tables, gauges, rate history,
model, etc. P.A.S. files, the Alberta Energy and Utilities
Board required format for electronic well test data
submission, can also be exported as TRG (pressure and
temperature) and AOF (IPR / AOF results) files.
Reporting
Saphir provides a quick way to produce a built-in report
including all relevant sections of the analysis. This
includes a main results summary page, history listings,
and one page dedicated to each plot with the appropriate
information and results. The report can be previewed, and
a number of options are given to customize the fonts,
change the logos, etc. When a single plot page is
required, the print option can be called from the plot itself.
Saphir is also an OLE automation server providing
access to all current interpretation parameters and results
from external applications such as MS-Word. The
Saphir installation comes with a template MS-Word
document including macros to access and retrieve those
values. All Saphir plots can be sent to the clipboard in
WMF, BMP, JPEG, or TIFF format.

Comparing normalized build-ups years apart from different files

Test design
All Saphir analytical and numerical models are available
for Test Design whereby a virtual gauge is created on
which a complete analysis may be simulated. Options to
simulate the actual gauge response, taking into account
its resolution, accuracy and potential drift can be the basis
for selecting the appropriate tools or to check if the test
objectives can be achieved in practice.
Specialized analyses
Flexible plots can be created to complement the default
loglog and derivative diagnostics with options tailored to
specific flow regimes. Pre-defined types are available,
such as MDH, Horner, square root and tandem root. On a
flexible plot the user can create straight lines, by
regression or interactively, and Saphir calculates the
relevant parameters.
AOF / IPR
AOF / IPR analyses are available for vertical (straight line,
Vogel, Fetkovitch, Jones, c&n), horizontal (Joshi, Renard,
Borisov, Giger, Vlis, P.S.S.), and fractured wells (P.S.S.).
IPR can be used for flow after flow, isochronal, or
modified isochronal tests, and includes options to display
extended, stabilized, and transient IPR.

History plot preview

14

The deconvolution process will then twist the shape of

the unknown derivative response within reasonable limits
until a best match is obtained. In other words, the process
will ensure that the resulting derivative shape is within the
bounds of what would be expected from a model.

Deconvolution in Saphir v4.02

Deconvolution in principle
The old idea behind deconvolution was to create a
theoretical response to an ideally constant producing rate
from the real pressure response to a complex, sometimes
inaccurate production history. From this response, we
arrive at an idealized drawdown solution that may be
subsequently and directly matched with a model over a
time period much greater than any single component
build-up. Therefore, with such a deconvolved response
we could see much further into the reservoir, hence
making earlier reserve bookings from defined limits.

Example
Look at the well production history and its corresponding
PDG pressure response below. The two selected buildups, of 120 and 300 hours are coherent and therefore, on
the loglog plot, their derivatives are consistent. The
deconvolved response is shown as white/red thick lines.
The duration of the deconvolved signal is 2,500 hours. It
exhibits a close system behavior that was not detected in
either build-up.

Good theory but in practice pure deconvolution is

unstable, especially at late time and this is just where it is
most useful. However, recent publications (e.g. SPE
#77688 and SPE #84290) suggested a method which,
given the proper caveats, could be of significant help.
Saphir deconvolution process
The unknown is the derivative response for a unit
production, which we decompose as a polyline on a
loglog scale. We obtain the unit pressure response by
numerical integration of the derivative, and we can
simulate the pressure response with the usual
superposition. Another potential unknown is the initial
pressure.
The optimization process adjusts the derivative response
in order to match the data and minimize the curvature of
the derivative response, i.e. it will find the simplest
derivative response that will best match the data.

Deconvolution on two consistent build-ups

The process also allows a certain flexibility on the

(inaccurate) rate values. The optimization will also ensure
that these rate changes are as small as possible. The
duration of the deconvolved response is the whole time
interval between the start of the production history and
the last pressure point.

Why does it work?

No real magic here. In the case above the process
obtains the additional late time behavior by having the
simulated response honor both build-ups simultaneously.
The additional information comes from the depletion
between build-up #1 and build-up #2. If there was only
one buildup, this depletion could be calculated to honor
the initial pressure (if known). Before deconvolution, a
good engineer would match one of the buildups with a
boundary, see that the simulation is incoherent with the
second build-up and add the extra boundaries until the full
picture matches. Deconvolution just takes you there in
only one step.

What is the catch?

Be careful and remember the assumptions made. The
main assumption is that superposition works and is
applied to the spline model. If the model changes in time,
and in particular the skin, the process will not work. If the
different build-ups are inconsistent deconvolution will not
work. For multiple wells deconvolution will not work either.
There is more: you create a theoretical response by
matching data. Then you match a drawdown model to this
response. Any mistake in the deconvolution calculation
will remain for the rest of the interpretation process. So it
is vital to always check the simulation match on the REAL
data, at least on the history plot, and return to the original
build-ups at the end of the process as a last validation.

The variables of the deconvolution process

Saphir deconvolution for the end user

The engineer selects the periods, which would typically
be a set of coherent build-ups, where the deconvolution
will be calculated. At this point the initial pressure is input
if known and rate adjustment selected or not.

Do not try to use the deconvolution any cost. It is a nice

tool, but sometimes it just does not work. Caveat emptor.
15

On numerical well testing

Numerical well testing is not a new idea and has been
tried since the advent of the simulator. In the early 1990s
the first automatic gridding designed for well testing was
developed. KAPPA became involved in this at that time
working under three specifications: first, the model must
take minutes to build and run so that using a numerical
model should not significantly change the duration of an
interpretation; second, the reliability of the numerical
model, and especially its automatic gridding, should be
comparable to the reliability of an analytical model; and
finally nonlinear regression should work.

Numerical models in Saphir

One of the main achievements of earlier versions of

Saphir was to provide the interpretation engineer with a
variety of tools to get closer to the real reservoir. This was
done by creating reservoir visualization, adding multiwell
capabilities to some analytical models, and developing a
numerical module based on an unstructured (Voronoi)
grid with a modeling flexibility far beyond that of an
analytical model.
In Generation 4 the third dimension was added as a local
grid refinement for modeling limited entry wells, horizontal
wells and multi-layer formations. Horizontal and vertical
anisotropies were also added.

The 2-D Map option

This is the starting point for any detailed description of the
reservoir, accessible from a dedicated tab in the Saphir
main window. It may be used to:

These capabilities, integrated in the standard version of

Saphir, correspond to the same assumptions of linear
diffusion as used for analytical models. They constitute a
sort of super-analytical model extended to complex
geometries, as described in these two pages.

Simply visualize the reservoir for report purposes

Position interfering wells to be used in analytical models
Define the numerical model: reservoir shape, wells

In Saphir NL the numerical model was extended to handle

nonlinearities including real gas, dead oil and two-phase
flow restricted to water and one hydrocarbon phase.
Saphir NL can also handle compaction and non-Darcy
flow. Saphir NL is detailed in page 18 of this document. In
the two present pages we will focus on the geometry.

Vector image built

Input bitmap

Composite zones

Automatic gridding

Thickness fields

Numerical model dialog

geometry and position, faults, composite zones in the

reservoir and/or around the wells, special distribution of
thickness and porosity, etc
Visualize the automatic gridding and allow a small core
of specialist users a high level of user control

User controlled gridding

2-D field display of simulated pressures

16

3-D field display of simulated pressures

Defining the numerical model

After loading a bitmap (BMP) representing the reservoir
(Fig. 1), the engineer first sets the scale by defining a
known distance between two points. Once these
dimensions are known, the tested well is positioned and
the reservoir outer limits described as a closed polygon.
Any segment of this polygon may be set as a sealing or
constant pressure boundary.

Running the numerical model

A tab in the model menu permits switching between
analytical and numerical. Well parameters and
permeabilities are retained, but the analytical geometry is
replaced by the 2-D reservoir description (Fig. 7).
2-D and 3-D visualization / animation
The simulated pressure fields may be stored for user
controlled time steps, allowing a 2-D display during the
simulation and later an animation (Fig. 8). The same real
time display and replay is available in pseudo 3-D, the
horizontal plane being the reservoir geometry and the
pressure being displayed in the Z plane. The usual
OpenGL display capabilities (angle, lighting, scale, gain,
etc) are available (Fig. 9). When the model uses true 3-D
gridding (complex wells, multilayer) a full 3-D view can be
displayed representing the real 3-D geometry, where it is
possible to define arbitrary cross sections, to show only
certain pre-defined groups of cells (see page 11).
Coloring and animation are also available in this mode.

If inner boundaries are present, any number of polyline

faults may be drawn with control of individual fault
transmissibility. Individual wells (vertical, horizontal and/or
fractured) may also be created and positioned, and their
production history entered. Later, when the model is
defined, vertical and fractured wells may be individually
set as fully penetrating or limited entry.

Once the geometry of the problem is defined, the display

of the original bitmap is turned off and the 2-D Map
displays a vector description of the problem (Fig. 2).
Composite zones and thickness/porosity fields
Fault polylines may also be used to delimit composite
zones where separate mobilities and diffusivities can be
defined. Additional composite zones may also be added
around each well (Fig. 3). Porosity, thickness or
permeability fields may be defined, either interactively or
by importing an ASCII file. Kriging and other interpolation
/ extrapolation algorithms are used to define these
properties at each cell (Fig. 4).

Complex well geometries and anisotropy

The numerical module allows for fractured (Fig. 10),
partially penetrating (Fig. 11), limited entry fracture (Fig.
12) and horizontal wells (Fig. 13). The 2-D grids around
the well is replaced by a 3-D module. Saphir also permits
horizontal (Fig. 14) and vertical anisotropy (Fig. 15).
Multilayer
The numerical model can simulate multilayer reservoirs.
Any number of layers can be considered, and any number
of wells penetrating those layers. The well model is
restricted to vertical or hydraulic fracture. Each well can
be selectively opened or closed in individual layers.
Crossflow may also be modeled. The contour, faults, etc
are identical in all layers.

Checking and controlling the gridding

The 2-D Map displays automatic gridding, adapted to
honor the reservoir contour, inner faults and wells (Fig. 5).
The default is recommended but specialists may modify
the basic grid geometry, size, main directions, and the
local grid refinement around each well (Fig. 6).

10

Fractured well : pressure field

Limited entry well : display of one sector

14

13

Horizontal well : local grid refinement

12

11

Horizontal anisotropy

17

Fractured well with limited entry

15

Limited entry well + vertical anisotropy

Water injectors
A particular application of two-phase flow is the case of a
water injector in an oil reservoir. Fall-offs of a water
injector can be reasonably modeled using a radial
composite solution. But injections are different. The
interface is moving and the problem changes in time.
Depending on the relative permeability tables and the
level of injection rate, different behaviors will occur in
time. Semi-analytical developments have been made on
the subject, but with Saphir NL there is no assumption
except the inherent uncertainties of relative
permeabilities.

Saphir NL

Saphir NonLinear (NL) is the highest level Pressure

Transient Analysis (Saphir) module in the Ecrin suite. It
addresses the specific issues of nonlinearities in
Pressure Transient Analysis. Saphir NL covers the same
geometries and well models as the numerical module of
Saphir, however the slightly compressible fluid
assumption and pseudopressures are replaced by the
exact diffusion equations. Superposition in time has gone
and the numerical module is run as a standard simulator
seamlessly integrated into Saphir. Pressure control can
be activated in the model to supersede the usual rate
control when the simulated pressure goes outside predefined limits. When nonlinearities are non negligible,
Saphir NL allows the engineer to solve the problem of
diffusion of real gas, with or without non-Darcy, real dead
oil, with or without water, and such specific conditions as
formation compaction.

2-phase relative
permeabilities

Using a numerical model to handle nonlinearities in well

testing is not a new concept. Other groups have made
attempts, with some success, to do this using local grid
refinement on standard simulators. But with Saphir NL, a
fast, easily handled and workable tool is at last
operational.
Real gas
With analytical models gas is handled using pseudotimes
and pseudopressures. This works to a point, but
increasingly the limitations can be seen. With Saphir NL
the exact real gas diffusion equation is implemented.
Because the problem is often locally linear and remains
single-phase, the nonlinear solver will converge quickly
and the generation time is in the order of a linear problem.

Water injector:
Evolution of the
water front

Non-Darcy flow
For real gas, the Forchheimer equation is used to handle
turbulent flow, both at well level and within the reservoir,
including the case of hydraulic fractures. A specific
turbulence coefficient is entered for each fracture.

Real dead oil

For single-phase oil the slightly compressible fluid
assumption implies that viscosity and compressibility are
constant. The dead oil PVT option models it exactly.

Pressure control vs rate control

When running a Saphir NL case, each well can be given
a minimum and a maximum flowing pressure. Should the
simulated pressure go outside the imposed limits, the
engine will switch to pressure control and the rate will
vary in consequence. On the history plot, the simulated
rates will then be displayed.

Water+hydrocarbons
The model runs with two phases, one phase being water.
Both detailed PVT and the Water-Oil or Water-Gas
relative permeability tables must be entered.

Formation compaction
This feature allows the definition of pressure dependent
permeability and porosity. This dependency may be
reversible or irreversible. It is reversible when the
property is a function of the current pressure values,
whether increasing or decreasing. In the irreversible case
the lowest historical pressure of each cell is stored and
the property is related to this lowest value.
Integration in the Saphir workflow
A nonlinear analysis is just a particular type of Saphir
analysis. Each nonlinear analysis stores, in addition to the
model, its own PVT and relative permeability tables.

Water injector and oil producer

18

Built-in analytical models

In the analytical model dialog, the user can select a large
combination of well, reservoir and boundary models, in
complement of wellbore and skin options.

Technical References
Built-in numerical models
User defined reservoir contour in the X-Y plane,
unlimited number of segments
Any contour segment sealed or at constant pressure
User defined faults inside the contour with individual
leakage factor
True double-porosity model (duplication of grids)
Composite regions with associated diffusivity,
storativity and double-porosity model
Horizontal anisotropy
Varying thickness and porosity fields
Conductive faults
Multiple wells
Fractured well with finite / infinite conductivity
Limited entry vertical well with vertical anisotropy
Fractured well with limited entry and vertical anisotropy
Horizontal well with vertical anisotropy
Changing storage (Saphir only)
Time-dependent and rate-dependent skin
Saphir and Topaze: slightly compressible liquid
Non-Darcy flow for gas (Saphir NL only)
2-phase W-O and W-G (Saphir NL only)
Real gas diffusion (Topaze and Saphir NL only)

PVT correlations
Gas

Viscosity
Pb & RS

Oil

Bo

Co

Viscosity
Rsw
Bw
Water
Cw

Viscosity

Wellbore
models
Well
models
Skin
models

Reservoir
models

Boundary
models

Dranchuk, Standing, Beggs & Brill,

Hall-Yarborough
Lee et al., Carr et al.,
Lee compositional
Lasater, Vasquez & Beggs,
Standing, Glaso non volatile,
Glaso volatile, Lasater-Standing,
Petrosky & Farshad
Standing, Vasquez & Beggs,
Glaso, Petrosky & Farshad
Petrosky & Farshad,
Vasquez & Beggs
Beggs & Robinson, Beal
Katz, Meehan & Ramey
Gould, McCain, Meehan & Ramey
Dodson & Standing, Osif
Van-Wingen & Frick,
Meehan & Ramey, Helmholtz

No storage
Constant storage (Fair, Hegeman)
Changing storage
Finite radius
Fracture - uniform flux
Fracture - infinite conductivity
Fracture - finite conductivity
Horizontal
Limited entry
Constant
Rate dependant
Time dependant
Homogeneous
2-porosity P.S.S.
2-porosity transient sphere
2-porosity transient slab
2-layer with X-flow
Radial composite
Linear composite
Infinite
Single sealing fault
1 constant pressure fault
Closed circle
Constant pressure circle
2 parallel faults
2 intersecting faults any angle
Composite rectangle
Leaky fault

External analytical models

The user may dynamically connect additional external
models, either delivered by KAPPA as a complement to
the built-in model catalog or developed internally by the
customer.
2-layers with X-flow & radial composite
2-layers with X-flow & 2-porosity
2-porosity & radial composite
2-porosity with skin at matrix blocks
3-porosity (1 fissure and 2 matrices)
3-layers with X-flow
4-layers with X-flow
4-layers with X-flow in closed system
Conductive fault
Horizontal well with horizontal anisotropy
Horizontal well with identical fractures
Horizontal well with non identical fractures
Multi-lateral well
Well in a reservoir pinchout
Slanted well, fully penetrating
Slanted well in an infinite reservoir
Slanted well in a closed reservoir
Radial composite 3 zones
Vertical interference (v4.02)

External model
definition and input

19

Production
Analysis

Main Topaze screen with production history plot

Since the introduction of Topaze in 2003 Production Analysis (PA) has

moved forward significantly. The old methods of assuming constant
pressure or empirical decline functions have been replaced by a
process employing advanced methodology such as the Blasingame
plot and using true diagnostics based on the analytical and numerical
modeling capabilities developed in Pressure Transient Analysis.

The merging of the modeling capability of Topaze with the abundance

of data from permanent gauges installed at surface or downhole has
meant that users are now able to obtain answers that were previously
only available from transient tests but remained hidden in long term
production data. This information has the advantage that it is
available at no extra cost and with no deferred production. As the long
term production is modeled, the evolution in time of the well
productivity may also be quantified. Finally, forecasting may be based
on a real model as opposed to an empirical function.
In the Ecrin framework, data, technical objects, even complete
analysis models may be copied from Saphir into Topaze by simple
drag-and-drop providing a quick start point for production analysis
and forecasting.

20

Main additions in v4.0 (2005)

Integrated into Ecrin; Drag-and-drop of technical
objects within any opened documents; in particular
models can be copied directly from/to Saphir
Wavelets at load time from databases using standard
protocols such as ODBC or OLEDB
Load DMP2 files
Numerical model: limited entry well (vertical and
fractured), horizontal well, X-Y & H-V anisotropies
Numerical models: 3-D grid display
Analytical models: extended to all Saphir models
Analytical models: horizontal anisotropy
Analytical models: multiwell solution
Sensitivity analysis by matching model with multiple
range of parameters
Enhanced Arps with multiple simultaneous scales
Arps water-oil extensions : fo vs Qo, log(fw) vs Qo, 1/fw
vs Qo, 1/qo vs Qo/qo
Analytical correction for water production
Enhanced output of production forecast
Load multiphase production used for intake correction
Enhanced interface, plots, annotations & report
Edit options merged with Saphir; in multiwell, they can
be used to edit the production of any well
Multiple analysis report

Numerical model with multiple wells

Key features
Full analysis spectrum from decline curve to complete
rate and pressure history matching
Brings the advances of the last twenty years in
Pressure Transient Analysis to Production Analysis
Processing very large data sets (permanent gauges):
wavelet filtration at load time
Extensive analytical model catalog
Unique numerical module extending the modeling
capabilities to situations with arbitrary outer boundary
shapes, any fault trajectories, composite zones, etc
Multi-well simulations
Model compatibility with Saphir
Simulate pressures from rates and rates from pressures
Fast modeling option for large data sets
Real gas numerical solution for exact material balance
Calculate and display average reservoir pressure
Time-dependent skin option
Unlimited number of analyses on different gauges,
using different models and/or model parameters
Fast and robust optimization routine
Optimization on rates, cumulative production,
pressures or any weighted average
Forecast of rate or pressure beyond the current history
Built-in surface to downhole correction with single and
multiphase flow correlations
24-hour on-line and telephone technical support
Extensive training and consulting services

Arps multiple scale analysis

Main additions in v4.02 (2006)

Ecrin v4.02 was focused on the operation of Diamant
Master and its compatibility with all the Ecrin modules,
including Topaze.

However Topaze v4.02 has additional enhancements

including the possibility, in the numerical model, to control
multiple well flowing pressures and production
contributions. This allows PDG data to be used directly in
the model instead of relying on production data that may
only be allocated or inaccurate.

Numerical model with mutiple wells

21

Loading & editing data

Topaze can load an unlimited amount of production and
pressure data with independent time sampling. Data may
be input as points (time, value) or as steps (duration,
value), and this option can be dynamically or permanently
changed later. Topaze will accept data from any type of
ASCII and database files. Specific client customized data
base connections developed for Diamant / Diamant
Master may also be used to directly load data in Topaze.
Comprehensive editing features include unique wavelet
filtration that allows data reduction without losing
significant trends or breaks in the pressure or rate
signature. Topaze can also retrieve data by drag-anddrop from another Topaze document, a Saphir document
or Diamant / Diamant Master.

Arps

Well intake correction and extraction

When pressures are acquired at surface or at any point
distant from the sandface, the well intake option allows
either the loading or generation of a well intake response
to simulate sandface pressure. When the engineer
extracts the data for analysis, options include the choice
of pressure and rate gauge, time range, time sampling,
and whether or not to correct pressures to datum.

Blasingame
The Blasingame plot displays instant and average
productivity index with respect to material balance time
(cumulative production divided by instantaneous rate). It
also calculates the derivative, in a display similar to an
inverted loglog plot tending to a negative unit slope when
pseudo-steady state is reached.

Model match on Blasingame plot

Loglog plot
The loglog plot can be used as a diagnostic tool with
exceptionally clean data. When data is more scattered
some trends may however be detected. The simulated
model can also be compared to the data on this plot.

Fetkovich

Fetkovich type-curves
These curves are available to process data in the
absence of permanent pressure measurements
assuming constant producing conditions. Normalized
rates and cumulative production can be superimposed on
the selected type-curve.
Arps plot
The default scale is log(q) versus time, but other scales
are available: q vs. t, log(q) vs. log(t), q vs. Q and log(q)
vs. Q. The automatic match by nonlinear regression best
fits the end of the data and displays the best matching
decline function, which may be changed interactively.
When oil and water rates are available, it is also possible
to estimate the ultimate recovery from other graphs: fo vs
Qo, lof(fw) vs Qo, 1/fw vs Qo and 1/qo vs Qo/qo. The
simultaneous display of several scales is possible within
the same plot.

Loglog plot

22

Normalized rate cumulative plot

This variation of the Agarwal-Gardner plot shows
dimensionless rate versus dimensionless cumulative
production. A straight line at boundary-dominated flow
gives a direct estimate of reserves. For gas, an iterative
solution is implemented as the plotted values are in turn
a function of the reserves.

When the well productivity changes

If the simulation deviates from the data and indicates a
change in the well productivity index the user may assign
individual skin values to different production periods.
Nonlinear regression is then applied on all skins, resulting
in a relation between mechanical skin and time.

Normalized rate cumulative plot

Changing skin

Production Forecast
Without data, or after history matching, a production
forecast for any model may be run based on the
anticipated producing pressure. Sensitivity to
improvements or decay of productivity index can be
simulated.

Model and nonlinear regression

With a wide range of well, reservoir and boundary models
(see technical references), Topaze offers the unique
capacity to simulate pressures from the production
history, or simulate rates and cumulative production from
the pressure history, or both simultaneously. Nonlinear
regression then allows history matching, minimizing the
error in terms of pressures, rates, cumulative production
or any weighted average.

Reporting, Exporting and Topaze Reader

As in Saphir, Topaze has an extensive range of reporting,
exporting and printing capabilities. The free and
unprotected Topaze Reader allows Topaze files to be
read, printed and exported without the requirement for an
active Topaze license.

Model for simultaneous oil-water production

When working with oil, an analytical prediction of water
production can be included. The simulated water rate
may be compared to the measured, and the difference
may be added in the nonlinear regression.
When the well drainage area changes
The same modeling and regression capacity is extended
to the Topaze unstructured numerical module in order to
handle complex geometries. The numerical module also
allows the simulation of multiple well production, where
individual wells can be pressure or rate controlled.
Topaze permits 2-D and 3-D visualization of the well
drainage areas and their evolution with time.

Production forecast

Common features with Saphir

Topaze shares built-in analytical and numerical linear
capabilities with Saphir. The Saphir external models will
run in Topaze. Under Ecrin a complete Saphir document
may be dragged-and-dropped into Topaze (or vice versa)
to complement the analyses on the same data. For a
detailed list of models refer to the Technical References
p.19. For a description of the numerical linear capabilities,
see Saphir p.16-17.

3-D model

23

Production
Logging

Emeraude main window - Deviated well - 3 phases

Production logging is now seen as a powerful quantitative method that

takes its own place in the set of data acquisition tools for the reservoir
engineer, along side transient and production analysis. No longer just
the tool of last resort, PL is now used as a calibration point for the
reservoir model and as an important tool in the development over
time of the producing intervals in the wellbore.

The interpretation process has shifted into the hands of the end-user
engineer due, to a great extent, to the development of client, as
opposed to tool focused software; Emeraude.
Production logging surveillance has given the reservoir engineer a
powerful tool in the drive for the more accurate and refined reservoir
characterization. Emeraude is now used by all the major service
companies and all the major producers and many independent
operators and service providers. Emeraude is seen as the industry
standard allowing a common platform for communication and
interpretation between service companies and operators.
From vertical injectors to horizontal or highly deviated multiphase
producers, Emeraude provides a comprehensive and intuitive set of
tools, to produce results from the log data from simple through to the
most sophisticated tool strings. KAPPA remains committed to the
ongoing development of the industry standard PL interpretation
package by remaining in close contact with tool manufacturers.

Emeraude is currently a standalone package. Integration in the Ecrin

environment is now taking place, for release planned in 2007.

24

Main additions in v2.42 (2005)

FSI module
Spinner response based on momentum
Surface contrib. in contributions tab (Zone Rates)
Update log option in contributions tab (Zone Rates)
Apparent downflow enabled when Vapp is positive
Apparent downflow option can be customized with
possible factor and shift
Average friction true calculation
Grid customization
Drag & drop from Data Store back to a Pass
Collapse browser option
View Up/ View Down Passes option
Lateral average stores standard deviation
Improved mnemonic management

Main window with browser

Key features
Unlimited number of logging runs within a document
with one or several interpretations for each
Logical data structure viewed/edited in a Data Browser
Fast and extensive plotting options with automatic and
user-defined track creation
Fast learning curve
Fast path for simple cases
Methodology based on nonlinear regression offers full
flexibility in the type and number of inputs
Comprehensive list of flow models from 1 to 3 phase
Specific models for apparent downflow, and flow
through a standing water column
Temperature model
Global log optimization with constraints
Selective Inflow Performance (SIP)
Multiple Probe Tools support (DEFT, GHOST, CAT):
image views / cross sections
FSI visualization and interpretation module
Pulsed Neutron Log (PNL) module
CGM/TIF log output
Well sketch
Formation test data QA/QC
Free reader for reporting and exporting

FSI cross-section

FSI geometry definition

Image view properties

Main additions in v4.10 (2007)

The integration of Emeraude in Ecrin will bring the
possibility to exchange components between Emeraude
and the other modules and between Emeraude
documents. It will be possible to transfer PVT, wellbore
geometry, full wellbore description including the
presssure drop model, as will feeding in a multilayer PTA
analysis with the PL rate results in Emeraude.
Beyond the benefit of the integration, Emeraude v4.10 will
include a number of new options such as a complex user
formula module, layout templates, and a test design
option.
25

Spinner calibration and apparent velocity

The user interactively defines the spinner calibration
zones and the positive and negative lines on each zone
are automatically calculated. Two calibration modes are
available: constant value of thresholds, or constant ratio
between thresholds and intercepts. Calibration results
can be viewed and edited directly with a full editing tool
box. Once the spinner calibration is satisfactory, the user
generates an apparent velocity channel. At each depth
the apparent velocity, Vapp, results from a user controlled
weighted average of the calculations for each pass.

Feature details
Data load and display
Emeraude can load data from LIS, LAS, and ASCII files
or from the clipboard or keyboard. Versus depth logs or
stationary data can be input. The load option
automatically recognizes the file format. New mnemonics
can be defined and become part of the software settings.
Mnemonics can be filtered for the current and future
loads. Log tracks are automatically created for each
mnemonic after the load, and scaled automatically to
display all the available measurements.

Single and zoned PVT

The PVT model defined by correlations provides the
properties of any phase at any temperature and pressure.
It is also possible to redefine the properties for each
inflow zone. In each phase dialog, there are tabs for all
the relevant properties where the correlations can be
viewed both graphically and inside a table, and matched
to user-entered data. The PVT needs to be created only
once, and can then be copied from one interpretation to
another. It is possible to save this to a file and to load that
same file into the PVT of other documents.

Load dialog

Methodology
Rate calculation is treated as a minimization problem and
solved using nonlinear regression, offering full flexibility in
the type and number of input measurements.
Interpretations can be run from any number of sufficient
inputs including: spinner apparent velocity, density,
pressure gradient, capacitance, holdup of any phase,
velocity of any phase, rate of any phase, and
temperature. The solution rates are found by minimizing
the error between measured and simulated values. Each
difference, or residual can be weighted separately. Two
different nonlinear regression schemes are available; the
local regression solves for the cumulative rates in the
wellbore at a series of user-defined depths and global
regression solves simultaneously for all the zone
contributions and can be used as a second stage to
impose sign constraints.

Data browser

Data structure and browser editing

Internally, Emeraude uses a hierarchical representation
that may be visualized in the data browser. At the top of
this hierarchy is the general well data that will typically
include: open-hole gamma ray, T.V.D. or deviation log,
zoned I.D. or caliper log and perforations. Next is the
survey data, which is the basis for one or several
interpretations, providing for sensitivity studies. Each
survey has an associated data store where copies of
channels can be made. Editing facilities include: lateral
averages, depth stretch, shift, data cut and fill, merging,
splicing, derivative and sampling.
Spinner
calibration

Interpretation models
Emeraude offers a full range of flow models from single to
3-phase model which considers slippage between water
and oil (Liquid-Liquid model) and slippage between the
liquid mixture and the gas (Liquid-Gas). Specific models
are provided to handle flow re-circulation as well as flow
through standing water columns.

Flow map

View/match PVT correlation

26

Zone rates calculation

The Zone Rates option calculates, views and modifies
rates for any calculation zone. Results are displayed as a
table or graphically, in terms of measured values against
simulated values. This can be used to assess the
relevance of the models when compared to the measured
surface rates and to alter the model to match those rates.
The user has full control of the solution model and the
results. Additional results are also presented such as the
flow regime, average velocities, holdups, slippage
velocities, as well as cumulative rates, downhole and at
Standard Conditions. Input parameters for each zone can
be listed and edited. The value of the supplied reference
channels and all relevant PVT properties can be viewed
in tabular form. Contributions can be directly edited.
When a gradio tool is used, all components of the
simulated pressure gradient are output: tool friction,
friction along the pipe, and acceleration gradient. A flow
map is used to spot discontinuities in the simulated
responses due to the change of flow regime.

Schematic and complete logs

Zone Rates results are plotted as schematic logs. In
addition zoned simulated measurements are generated
and plotted together with the input channel.
A Complete Log output can also be obtained which, at
every selected depth increment, calculates the
cumulative rates by nonlinear regression. Because the
complete log is everywhere faithful to the data, it can
serve as a good indication of the entry points.

Multiple Probe Tools with visualization

Emeraude can process multiple probe tools giving either
bubble counts, holdup of a given phase or capacitance
measurements. The built-in options are tailored for the
Schlumberger DEFT, GHOST, and the Sondex CAT but
can be customized. Image tracks can be created, and
cross sections displayed at any depth. Average holdups
can be calculated using an arithmetic average or a
stratified average.

Zone rates option

Global Regression
The default calculation scheme in Emeraude involves
successively solving the cumulative rates at selected
depths inside the wellbore. The contributions of the inflow
zones, located in between the calculation zones, are then
obtained from successive differences. Because each
local regression is done regardless of the solution above
or below, the overall solution may result in contributions
from the same interval showing different signs which,
physically, is not possible.

Multiple probe tools - Image view - Cross-section

Flow Scan Imager

A specific treatment is offered for the Flow Scan Imager
(FSI). The holdup information provided by the six rows of
resistivity and optical probes can be viewed as an image
to assess the flow distribution. Cross sections can be
displayed that provide a clear view of all the tool
measurements at a given depth. The cross section is
updated continuously as the cursor moves along the log.
On the cross section, the user can choose an
interpolation method for holdups and spinners along the
vertical axis (see figures on p.25). Using the user
selection, the software calculates average holdups, total
velocity, and possibly phase velocities and rates. Note
that in this process each spinner has its own calibration
values for the different fluids. Any average channel
calculated from the FSI processing may then be input to
the usual calculation engine.

Global Regression provides a method for solving those

cases. For every producing interval, the sign of the
contribution can be imposed. It is also possible to fix any
particular contribution to a user-entered value, in
particular a null value. Global regression can be coupled
with a Genetic Algorithm to avoid local traps.

Well sketch
The well completion is built by drag and drop of predefined elements, e.g. tubing, casing, packer, etc., and
the depth and diameter information is entered. For the
latter, Emeraude can retrieve the values from an existing
ID channel.

Global regression

27

For gas rates, the SIP can be based on pseudopressure

instead of pressure. An unlimited number of SIPs can be
created and compared. Each zone can be assigned a
different model: straight line, c&n, or Jones IPR. The SIP
can use the total rate, the rate of a given phase, or the
total liquid rate. The analysis can be done downhole or
with surface values. Pressure datum correction can be
applied and a composite IPR displayed.
Pulsed Neutron Log (PNL) interpretation
Clean formation, Shaly - Single water model, Shaly - Dual
water models are available. When a model has been
selected, Emeraude indicates which channel inputs are
needed. Those channels can be loaded from an openhole interpretation, or estimated from correlations. In the
start-up phase they are given a unique constant value.
They can later be redefined on user-selected zones.
Zones can be defined anywhere along the log. Crossplots are created on these zones and can be used to
redefine locally the input measurements. For unclean
formations the plot can dynamically correct for shale. The
relevant capture cross-sections are changed on a crossplot either by direct input or by dragging the plot lines.
When the change is satisfactory, it is possible to modify
the logs with the new value, on the selected zone only, or
on the whole range. When all inputs have been defined,
a water saturation log can be generated which is
automatically used to display a Bulk Volume Analysis, and
a Pore Volume Analysis view. Time-lapse presentation
can be obtained automatically by supplying the
interpretation with additional water saturations, and
defining the relevant chronology.

Well sketch creation

Temperature
The temperature can be used to replace a faulty spinner
or a spinner blinded by such effects as flow recirculation. The temperature model requires the definition
of a formation temperature profile that may be directly
input or interactively picked on the data. Fluid heat
capacities and an overall heat loss coefficient are also
required. The latter can be estimated on the top
calculation zone when surface rates are available. It may
also be included as a variable of the global regression.

Temperature Interpretation

Selective Inflow Performance (SIP)

Generating a SIP analysis can be done very quickly once
the reservoir zones are defined. In every selected
interpretation, the SIP plot will read the rate values on the
schematic logs, the pressure and the temperature values.

PNL Interpretation

Well views
In many situations understanding the measurements and
results may require visual representation. In a horizontal
well, oscillations in the well trajectory will be responsible
for significant variations in the holdup due to the influence
of deviation on the slippage velocities. Displaying the
holdups inside a representation of the wellbore is
therefore essential. Well views can be created from the
browser to display the well geometry, based on TVD or
deviation, the internal diameter and zones. Holdup
channels, obtained as direct tool measurements or
complete log calculations, can also be added to the well
view and displayed within the wellbore.

SIP analysis

28

Technical References

Formation test data QAQC

An option of the special panel allows the loading of
reservoir pressure and reservoir permeability / mobility
channels. They can be loaded together or separately; in
which case the software will reconcile the depths. Each
depth point can be assigned a legend, and a quality
indicator. All information appears on the tracks built
automatically to display the pressure and permeability.
Lines can be calculated or drawn and gradients / contacts
are deduced.

Pressure drop correlations

Artep
Aziz & Govier
Beggs & Brill
Choquette
Dukler-Eaton
Duns & Ros
Hagedorn-Brown
Orkiszewski
Petalas & Aziz
Taitel & Dukler

Export
Channels present in an Emeraude document can be
exported in LIS, LAS, or ASCII formats. Those files can
then be transferred to third party applications, corporate
databases, etc.

Liquid-Gas; mechanistic; any angle

Liquid-Gas; mechanistic; vertical
Liquid-Gas; empirical; any angle
Liquid-Liquid; empirical; vertical
Liquid-Gas; empirical; horizontal
Liquid-Gas; empirical; vertical
Liquid-Gas; empirical; vertical
Liquid-Gas; empirical; vertical
Liquid-Gas; mechanistic; any angle
Liquid-Gas; mechanistic; vertical

A flowmap for Petalas & Aziz

Output
The log output in Emeraude is WYSIWYG and can be
sent to any MS-Windows printer. Single or multiple log
tracks, as well as any X-Y plot can be copied to the
clipboard in Bitmap or WMF format. The Log printout
includes a preview option where full control is given to
modify the fonts, scales and grid lines. Screen captures
can be made at any point and returned to later with a
single click. API logs can be produced from the print
preview option and stored within the document. A built-in
report can be printed and previewed that includes
predefined sections. This report can be complemented by
the appropriate log outputs generated as required. If
further customization is required, it is possible to produce
a report in MS-Word using the OLE interface of
Emeraude. Through this interface, any parameter or
result of the active document can be retrieved using the
appropriate macros. A template MS-Word report is
installed and can be customized as required
Internet: Click & Send
The Click & Send option enables the user to send directly
an E-Mail with the current Emeraude file, or a subset, to
any destinee, including KAPPA support. It is possible to
send a compressed version of the file, with all surveys or
only the active one.

Gaz PVT - Z correlation match

PVT correlations
Gas

Viscosity
Pb & RS

Oil

Bo

Co

Viscosity
Rsw
Bw
Water
Cw
Viscosity

Log preview

29

Dranchuk, Standing, Beggs & Brill,

Hall-Yarborough
Lee et al., Carr et al.,
Lee compositional
Lasater, Vasquez & Beggs,
Standing, Glaso non volatile,
Glaso volatile, Lasater-Standing,
Petrosky & Farshad
Standing, Vasquez & Beggs,
Glaso, Petrosky & Farshad
Petrosky & Farshad,
Vasquez & Beggs
Beggs & Robinson, Beal
Katz, Meehan & Ramey
Gould, McCain, Meehan & Ramey
Dodson & Standing, Osif
Van-Wingen & Frick,
Meehan & Ramey, Helmholtz

What is coming next?

Amethyste

Rubis

Ecrin v4.10 (2007) and v4.20 (2008)

Diamant, Saphir and Topaze have a long list of additional features
defined in cooperation with our user group. In addition, Ecrin v4.10
will see the integration of Emeraude as its PL module, and Topaze
NL will be released. Finally two new modules that complement the
Ecrin suite will be released: a reservoir simulator (Rubis) and a nodal
analysis package (Amethyste).
Reservoir Simulation
Rubis will be a fast, interactive 3-D / 3-phase simulator that will be
positioned half way between material balance and the large standard
simulators in the market. The 3-D geometry will comprise a cartesian
accumulation of layers, each layer using a 2D, locally 3D, unstructured
grid. This will be more coarse than, but compatible with, the PTA
numerical models. Rubis is scheduled for Ecrin v4.10 (2007).
Nodal Analysis
In 2005, in collaboration with a major operator, KAPPA ported WAM,
a client in-house nodal software package from DOS to Windows.
This version is available now but with a limited deployment. It will be
the technical base of Amethyste, the nodal analysis module of Ecrin.
Emeraude and Amethyste will share the same flow models, and it will
be possible to use the results of the production log to initiate the nodal
model at the level of the formation. Lift curves generated by
Amethyste will be usable with a drag-and-drop in the simulator, PTA
or PA analyses.

30

Corporate office
France - Sophia Antipolis
Development
KAPPA Engineering SA
TEL: +33 4.9721.2450
FAX: +33 4.9721.2451

Training & Consulting

UK - Gatwick
KAPPA TCS Ltd
TEL: +44 1342.837.101
FAX: +44 1737 821 518

Regional offices
USA & Latin America - Houston
KAPPA North America inc
TEL: +1 713.772.5694
FAX: +1 713.772.5690
South East Asia - Perth
KAPPA SEA Pty Ltd
TEL: +61 8.9481.5000
FAX: +61 8.9481.6900
Middle East Asia - Bahrain
KAPPA MEA W.L.L.
TEL: +973 17.229.803
FAX: +973 17.229.804