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It is well recognised among the scientific community that resin molecules play a crucial role in the stability of colloidal asphaltene particles in petroleum oils. The de-stabilization of asphaltene/resin interaction under the influence of any change in the thermodynamic parameters can cause asphaltene to precipitate. This may significantly add to petroleum field problems such as in-situ permeability reduction, as well as by contributing to serious plugging problems in the production facilities. The latter is the case in West Kuwait Marrat deep wells. One of the remedial technologies that is used in the oil industry is to increase the concentration of the resins' chemical potential by developing synthetic resins to enhance the stability of asphaltene in the oil phase. This method sometimes can be ineffective due to the difficulty in predicting the resin chemical structure that is compatible with the asphaltene chemical structure. The objective of this paper is to introduce a method tha

Abstract

Jurassic reservoirs are prolific producers of hydrocarbons in The State of Kuwait. The main contribution of the hydrocarbons is from structural traps. Having targeted majority of the structural traps, the exploratory efforts have accelerated to identify and explore the stratigraphic traps. The areas having stratigraphic traps close to the known hydrocarbon producing four way closures are low risk and high priority ones. This paper presents the efforts to identify lead areas to propose locations for exploratory drilling in one of such areas. The available G&G data was utilized to assess the off-structure prospectivity of Lower Jurassic carbonate reservoirs of the Marrat Formation near the Dhariff-Abduliyah Fields. The sedimentological and petrophysical studies were integrated with seismic attributes based on 3D data to understand the vertical and lateral facies changes within the area. The post-stack conditioning of the seismic data aided in enhancing the high frequency events in the se

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[No abstract available]

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Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) is planning to adopt thermal method for the recovery of heavy oil in its north Kuwait heavy oil reservoir. However there are growing concern of salts precipitation and scaling deposits, especially magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) in the targeted reservoirs due to the potential reaction of alkaline steam water mixture with the reservoir waters which contain significant concentration of magnesium, barium and other components. A comprehensive compatibility study was carried out using laboratory test and computer scaling predictions of scaling tendencies of the fluids as follows:, Alkaline steam boiler feed water (SBFW) with the Lower Fars (LF) formation water, Heavy oil Produced water (formation + condensed water) from the thermal wells) with the Tayarat formation water This paper presents the results of computer scaling study performed using ScaleChem simulation software and laboratory examination of water compatibility using the Jar test analysis for mixing alkalin

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This paper describes a systematic assessment artificial lift methods for a heavy oil development in Kuwait. The main recovery strategies that were being considered for the development consisted of different sequencing of primary production, cyclic steam stimulation and steam flooding, with both vertical and horizontal wells. In 2007, Kuwait Oil Company drilled five vertical wells in their heavy oil fields, as a precursor to the full field development planned in the coming years. These five wells represented the first major activity in the formation since the 1980s when two cyclic steam stimulation pilot tests were conducted. The characteristics of the development and of the associated planned recovery strategies presented several AL challenges that needed to be assessed. This work consisted of an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of various AL systems and a ranking of these systems according to well geometry, oil viscosity, targeted flow rate and the recovery method. The asses

Abstract

This paper describes a systematic assessment of artificial lift (AL) methods for a heavy oil development in Kuwait. The main recovery strategies that were being considered for the development consisted of different sequencing of primary production, cyclic steam stimulation and steam flooding, with both vertical and horizontal wells. Initially, Kuwait Oil Company drilled five vertical wells in their heavy oil fields, as a precursor to the full field development planned in the coming years. These five wells represented the first major activity in the formation since the 1980s, when two cyclic steam stimulation pilot tests were conducted. The characteristics of the development and of the associated planned recovery strategies presented several AL challenges that needed to be assessed. This work consisted of an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of various AL systems and a ranking of these systems according to well geometry, oil viscosity, targeted flow rate and the recovery method

Abstract

The environment in Kuwait had suffered a massive damage by the Iraqi troops during the 1990-1991 military invasion. 734 oil wells were damaged and burned causing huge amount of oil spills on the soil surface and subsurface. Most of the soil around the oil fields was affected by hazardous contamination. This study aims to measure the extent of contaminated soil and to determine the contaminant composition, then we choose a suitable remediation action for rehabilitation of Kuwait's desert environment and ecosystem. Site soil samples taken from five well heads located in Burgan's field were investigated to measure the depth of the contaminated soil and its composition. The results showed that the contaminated soil was identified, wellhead number three had the deepest contamination of 4.3 meters, and the shallowest depth of 1.2 meter was found at the wellhead pit number one. The number of petroleum hydrocarbons resided in the soil can cause a serious health risk. The necessary remediation

Abstract

The environment in Kuwait had suffered a massive damage by the Iraqi troops during the 1990-1991 military invasion. 734 oil wells were damaged and burned causing huge amount of oil spills on the soil surface and subsurface. Most of the soil around the oil fields was affected by hazardous contamination. This study aims to measure the extent of contaminated soil and to determine the contaminant composition, then we choose a suitable remediation action for rehabilitation of Kuwait's desert environment and ecosystem. Site soil samples taken from five well heads located in Burgan's field were investigated to measure the depth of the contaminated soil and its composition. The results showed that the contaminated soil was identified, wellhead number three had the deepest contamination of 4.3 meters, and the shallowest depth of 1.2 meter was found at the wellhead pit number one. The number of petroleum hydrocarbons resided in the soil can cause a serious health risk. The necessary remediation

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Different procedures have been advocated for the management of chronic pilonidal sinus (PNS), none of which is perfect. This study was conducted to compare between the Karydakis technique and conventional midline closure in patients with chronic PNS. METHODS: This study included 161 patients with chronic PNS admitted to the department of surgery between June 2001 and June 2004. Data collected included demographics, symptoms and their duration, number of sinuses and their location, previous management, operative technique and time, hospital stay, return to normal activity, morbidity, and recurrence of disease. Patients were categorized into 2 groups. Patients in group 1 (n = 79) were treated with the Karydakis asymmetric eccentric flap, whereas those in group 2 (n = 82) were treated with the standard midline closure technique. Mean follow up was 30.4 months (range, 12-49 months). RESULTS: Both groups had similar demographics, clinical presentation, hospital stay, and time of

Abstract

Objectives/Scope: Makhul Formation comprises a transgressive sequence of organic rich argillaceous limestones, calcareous mudstones and dark euxinic bituminous rich claystones. Formation is divisible into three parts - the lower part (Makhul organic rich mudstone) is made up of organic rich lime mudstone while the middle part (Makhul transition) consists of Organic rich Mudstone and limestone intercalations and the uppermost part (Makhul tight limestone) is characterized by tight lime mudstone. Study focuses on play fairway assessment Sweet spot mapping and identification of exploratory drilling locations for Makhul Unconventional reservoir. Methods/Procedures/Process: The play-based exploration involves integrated interpretation of diverse datasets at the country scale comprised of the following: • Geophysics; seismic interpretation of structure, faults and fractures, attribute analysis, seismic inversion and rock physics. • Geology; tectonostratigraphy, sedimentology and forward stra

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The monitoring, prediction and control of microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) are common challenges in the oil industry. This paper aims to optimize monitoring of souring and corrosion threat in oil field water handling systems using latest developments in molecular microbiological methods. Microbial quantification was performed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method. Microbial population structure fingerprinting was done using next generation sequencing (NGS). The findings were compared with the corrosion rates and most probable number (MPN) values obtained from conventional serial dilution methods. The results show that molecular microbiology methods provide faster and optimum corrosion mitigation strategies. © 2021

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This paper presents the use of geostatistical inversion for the delineation of Mauddud reservoirs on the flanks and saddle parts between Raudhatain and Sabiriyah fields of North Kuwait. Mauddud formation is sub-divided into ten reservoirs from MaA to MaJ and of those, the most prospective zones are from MaB to MaE, consisting of thick porous carbonate reservoir, with porosity ranging from 15 to 30%. MaE is low quality reservoir, which shows drop in resistivity and increase in water saturation and appears to be tight. MaG shows high impedance and low porosity and in MaH, MaI & MaJ observed presence of shale. Most of the wells were drilled concentrated on the main structures whereas few wells were drilled on the flanks and saddle parts. The plan is to take up the drilling on these parts, but before carrying out any drilling activity, it has been decided to perform reservoir simulation study to reduce the uncertainty. The challenge is to characterize the reservoir property (porosity) of M

Abstract

The Third Sand Middle of the Greater Burgan field is a massive sandstone reservoir with a strong bottom water drive. It has been on production since the last six decades. During this period, the dynamics of fluid movement have resulted into highly uneven remaining oil columns throughout the reservoir. These remaining oil columns are the key parameter to the placement of infill wells. The structural configuration of the reservoir is well understood with the help of 3D seismic. Thus, the determination of the remaining oil column hinges mainly on the current OWC surface. To build the current OWC surface, a large set of PNC data has been used. Conditional simulation using Sequential Gaussian Simulation is used to assess the degree of uncertainty associated with distribution by randomly sampling the spectrum of possible solutions. Stochastic realizations of the surface are generated by changing the seed on each pass through the loop of SGS workflow. Annual fluid production map surfaces have

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This study presents an assessment of heterogeneity on vertical and areal scales and discusses the development of methodology for a proposed waterflood scheme in a heavy oil field in Northern Kuwait. The field produces average 15° API crude of 50-100 cp at 100° F. The field has a complex geologic and stratigraphic architecture, and the associated reservoirs are highly heterogeneous in nature. Both numerical simulation and analytical models were used to assess the performance of the proposed waterflood. Vertical and areal heterogeneity of the oil bearing formation were evaluated using Dykstra-Parsons coefficient, Lorenz coefficient and coefficient of variance methodologies. Both numerical simulation and analytical models were deployed to evaluate the waterflood performance under 5-spot and inverted 9-spot patterns for 20 and 10 acre spacing. An analytical excercise was carried out as a pre-check for the expected waterflood recovery factors. Results from all three methods of heterogeneity

Abstract

Managing asset integrity is a complex activity in surface production facilities of an oil industry. Process equipment in an oil production facility is exposed to various damage mechanisms that may be active due to the presence of contaminants in the process streams. Proper material selection, maintenance programs, inspection monitoring and repair are the standard components of the Asset Integrity Management Process. The conventional way of approaching the problems caused by damage mechanisms such as Hydrogen Induced Cracking (HIC) and Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) in Pressure vessels is by way of repairs or replacements. Black powder deposits are also causing increasing concerns due to fouling and severe corrosion. One pressure vessel and one heat exchanger have been replaced in few - facilities of Kuwait Oil Company during the past one year due to Hydrogen Damage and fouling. One more vessel with minor embedded defects is under inspection monitoring and engineering evaluation. Alter

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Systematic internal corrosion monitoring, fluid analysis and on-stream inspection of process vessels and associated piping in operating plants at appropriate locations can provide valuable insight into the corrosion status and fitness level of the equipment and components. At the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), Internal Corrosion Monitoring activities and on stream inspection activities are carried out in all their facilities which consists of 22 Crude Processing Plants (or Gathering Centers), 4 Gas Processing Plants (or Booster Stations); 2 Effluent Water Disposal Plants, Seawater Treatment and Injection Plant, a vast network of pipelines carrying different products, as well as Early Production Facilities. Internal corrosion monitoring is conducted with online monitoring equipment that include corrosion coupons, corrosion probes, bio probes, hydrogen patch probes etc. installed at key locations. Fluid analyses activities are also carried out for different processes to determine various key

Abstract

In this era of flourishing E&P activities it is imperative to provide stake holders from operations to management with latest and reliable information quickly. Information integrated from multiple sources, when automated and presented creatively reduces unproductive time for the decision makers for making correct informed decisions. On these lines a unique optimization metrics card has been developed in Kuwait Oil Company for an asset or area which has led to maximizing its production efficiency. Originally created as an excel based metrics report for the Greater Burgan Field, the new asset metrics card is a web based report card applicable for all fields of Kuwait with the ability to divide into increasingly smaller 'production levels' or conversely roll up to higher consolidated levels giving both staff and management the quick ability to assess what matters to them. The asset metrics card consolidates the critical activity and capacity measures required to understand present & futur

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This paper examines the potential risk of using controlled implosions as a new technique to securely seal an offshore leaking oil pipe. Massive amount of toxins and radioactive waste are produced by offshore oil leaks. These leaks can have negative impact on marine life and can threaten the stability of the ocean's ecosystem. In the past few years, there were several oil leak accidents that had left an overwhelming impact. Identifying potential impact and consequences to the proposed risk mitigation technique, to both the environment and the surrounding infra structure, is crucial to emergency response and crisis management teams. In order to equally quantify and communicate the probable impact of the proposed controlled implosion technique, a one-to-five risk / consequence assessment scale was created. The optimal explosive configuration is being investigated by the Mining Engineering Department at Missouri S&T. Their research outcome, as well as this one, can potentially mitigate the

Abstract

Steam piping and pipeline whipping, bowing, buckling and jumping are some of the phenomenon observed in the field due to improper design and inadequate commissioning procedures. As a result, 'steam flood', 'cyclic steam stimulation' and 'SAGD' operations experiences long steaming hold-ups, extended shutdowns, production losses and environmental clean-up Steam pipelines up to 32'' diameter and 30 km length, with 11-15 MPa design pressure and 250-340 deg C design temperature for quality of steam from 80 to 100%, are being designed with high strength material and thin wall designs. Although, designs are robust and utilizes proven stress analysis tools, but are often fail to address the common field issues of unequal warming, condensate buildup and severe slugging encountered during the commissioning and at the start of the new steaming cycle. Also, piping connections lack the provision to accommodate requisite thermal growth and/or the unequal thermal growth between steam piping, producti

Abstract

As KOC prepares for production ramp up in a North Kuwait Heavy Oil field, one key for cost efficient development is in optimizing information from observation wells. Given multiple objectives for data collection and restrictions due to dense well spacing and surface infrastructure, it is critical to apply an efficient methodology for the selection of observation well locations. This paper describes the interplay between subsurface needs and urban planning in decisions for placement of observation wells to reduce operational costs, enforce effective field development planning and ensure robust production levels. The observation well location selection protocol in a heavy-oil steam development requires initial focus on identifying the key subsurface parameters and risks including cap-rock integrity, role of baffles in steam conformance, gas caps, aquifer influx as well as development decisions like adequate well spacing to apply micro-seismic, e.g. Key parameters were mapped and rated wi

Abstract

A 39-year-old woman who was taking the contraceptive pill was admitted with right leg deep venous thrombosis (DVT). She was started on apixaban tablets, but after 8 days developed proximal progression of the DVT and pulmonary embolism. Her medical history later showed a history of sleeve gastrectomy. The patient responded to a vitamin K antagonist after heparin. The failure of the antithrombotic drug shed light on the efficacy and changed pharmacodynamics of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) after bariatric surgery in the absence of commercially available blood monitoring tests. LEARNING POINTS • Bariatric surgery causes complicated changes in the pharmacodynamics of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). • The absence of clinical data on the efficacy of DOACs after various bariatric procedures makes it difficult to justify their use after bariatric surgery. European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine - © EFIM 2020

Abstract

Successful EOR project management in mature fields depends on proactive planning that includes reservoir characterization and determination of the engineering design parameters. Base-Line logging performed in the pilot EOR pattern before implementation of an EOR project will make possible an early detection of any potential problems and weaknesses to avoid costly subsequent repairs or alterations. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the results and value of Reservoir-Oriented Base-Line Logging carried out in Sabriyah Field, Kuwait, before ASP injection. The Base-Line logging is focused on the flows behind pipe and any anomalies that might have impact on the project. Seven new vertical wells were drilled in a selected area within an existing waterflood pattern, to monitor the viability of pilot polymer injection in the field. An integrated suite consisting of reservoir evaluation tools, High Precision Temperature (HPT) and Spectral Noise Logging (SNL) tools, and metal losses e

Abstract

This paper describes one successful approach of Behavior Based Safety (BBS) implementation in Oil & Gas Company in Kuwait. The unique approach involved tailor made approach and implementation has been done through the very basic building blocks. Much emphasis was placed on understanding the Middle Eastern Social Culture, organizational culture including the HSE culture and then designing the BBS program to suit the cultural norms. Several organizations in the Middle East Region have implemented in-house versions of Behavior Based Safety (BBS) programs such as STOP, ASA, SOC, and so on. However, these programs have been driven by Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and therefore suffered from number-crunching instead of focusing on quality execution and effectively influencing behaviors. Quite a few BBS consultants have attempted to implement their respective BBS programs in this Region. There has been varying successes. Copyright 2015, Society of Petroleum Engineers.

Abstract

This paper presents a practical method for benchmarking heavy oil fields as a tool for identification of opportunities for total cost and production optimization. The method combines actual data from typical heavy oil fields to define reservoir, well and surface complexity indices, for categorizing a subject field and a total cost breakdown model to map potential risks that could cause total cost to increase, potential project/process delay and poor production performance. The benchmarking process consists of four steps: 1) classification of a subject field using Front End Loading (FEL) and complexity indices that account for: a) reservoir structural, stratigraphic, rock, fluid, energy, static and dynamic complexity, b) well complexity and c) surface processes complexity; 2) selection of analog fields within the range of indices; 3) use of causal maps to identify causes of uncertainty and risks that impact capital expenditures (CAPEX), operational expenditures (OPEX), production losses

Abstract

The paper describes the results of a benchmarking exercise conducted for a selected set of Well Reservoir and Facility Management (WRFM) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) on two greenfield, heavy oil assets in Kuwait. The purpose of the benchmark exercise was to define a baseline performance for these new heavy oil assets to validate ongoing improvement efforts, as well as to identify further improvements opportunities the medium term. The assets were compared against a group of analogue assets operated by an IOCs. The benchmarking exercise focused on four areas common to all assets: Production Optimization Gains, Well Stock Reviewed, Total Deferment from Wells and Data Acquisition Compliance. Given the differences in conceptual definitions employed by the companies (including the definition of the KPIs, and even the definition of an "asset"), the study started by formalizing the definitions based on the IOC standard. Given that the WRFM processes had only been formally implemented in

Abstract

Casing running has historically been recognized as one of the most inefficient and dangerous processes on drilling rigs. Conventional methods carry with them a substantial equipment and personnel burden. This burden results in lengthy rig up/down times, a crowded rig floor and is often responsible for a variety of injuries and occasional fatalities. Recently, Casing Running Tools are being utilized that reduce equipment and personnel required on the rig, advancing the industry toward a safer, more efficient casing running process. Casing Running Tools greatly reduce the equipment needed to run casing by incorporating many functions into one tool. Less equipment utilizing more intuitive procedures reduces the amount of rig up and rig down time. Both hydraulic and mechanical tools are currently available to the industry. Hydraulically operated tools require a "Hydraulic Power Unit" (HPU) and an operator on the rig floor to control the CRT's operation. Mechanical tools are more compact, d

Abstract

The Burgan KwIDF technology comprises of instrumentation and infrastructure installed on the wells and production facility to monitor production in real time. Data from wells and production gathering facility is transmitted to the field operations center through SCADA and also to the base collaboration center where it is processed and analyzed within the Burgan KwIDF intelligent daily operations system (i-DO). The KwIDF system has automated workflows which generate a real time alarm from the raw data based on anomaly detection and exceeding of operational thresholds. Smart dashboards are also provided which processes raw information for quick indication of production losses or gains from wells and associates it with the key change in well or facility parameter. Opportunities for increasing chokes or header changes are proactively presented for compensating losses and increasing production utilizing integrated well and network models with the real time data. This paper provides insight

Abstract

KOC conducted its first 2D Offshore Seismic Acquisition Survey over the State of Kuwait Offshore covering some of the Environmental Sensitive & restricted areas to explore the hydrocarbon potentials in Offshore Areas. The potential environmental effects, risks and control measures were designed to minimize/mitigate the actual and potential risks of the survey. This Abstract outlines the industry best environmental Practices adopted during the various stages of the project for executing the Seismic Survey in the State of Kuwait Offshore Environment. The project was first of kind in KOC using fleet of 12 Vessels for carrying out the Seismic Acquisition Survey Operations in the State of Kuwait Offshore and it faced many challenges during the different phases of the project. Various Methods, Procedures & Processes were followed to overcome these challenges by identifying & implementing industry best HSE standards in terms of Geophysical offshore Surveys, Implementing KOC's HSE Management S

Abstract

Electrical Submersible Pump is an artificial lift method which consists of lowering a pump system on tubing string during rig workover where the power cable is clamped externally along with the tubing. Because of the significant rig workover cost, the ESP is usually run until failure. Wireline Retrievable ESP (WRESP) is a step change in ESP method, where the pump without electrical cable can be retrieved and reinstalled with a wireline method (as a rigless job) at any time of ESP life cycle. A Wireline Retrievable ESP system consists of two main parts: Permanent part: Docking station with a male connector, attached to a large bore tubing string with a power cable clamped on it and lowered in the well bore during a rig work-over job Retrievable part: Standard ESP string with a seal assembly on top and motor connector on the lower end, lowered and retrieved with Wireline inside the large bore tubing. This technology was implemented as a trial jobs in Oman, Ecuador and Nigeria. Challenges

Abstract

Objective/Scope: The objective of this paper is to present the best practices applied in drill stem testing of wells with harsh environment due to presence of high sour fluid. For the first time in State of Kuwait, five exploratory wells were tested with several challenges namely high pressure, high H2S (~ 40%), super saturated saline water leading to salt plugging both at surface and downhole, flaring/safe disposal of produced well fluid, intervention using coil tubing for activation and acid stimulation, rates measurement, production logging and bottom hole sampling etc. Best practices of well test along-with fit for purpose equipment were used. This resulted in successful data collection of the subject wells without any damage to personnel and environment. Method, Procedure, Process: Five deep Jurassic wells were drilled with heavy mud 18.9-20.4 ppg to 11,107 ft. - 15,550 ft. targeting new formations with many anticipated challenges like high pressure 10,900-14,500 psi, high tempera

Abstract

Two siblings with consanguineous parents began having myoclonic jerks at age 5 months after introduction of mixed feeding. There was later developmental regression. The elder girl died without diagnosis aged 1 year, after prolonged continuous hyperventilation. The younger sibling did not have metabolic acidosis when first investigated for myoclonus and hypotonia aged 5 months. At 9.5 months, when intermittently decerebrate and hyperventilating, she had a metabolic acidosis with elevated blood lactic, pyruvic and β‐hydroxybutyric acids, and β‐hydroxyisovaleric aciduria. On the assumption that she had β‐methylcrotonyl‐CoA carboxylase deficiency she was started on biotin, 10 mg daily. Within 36 h there was dramatic clinical and biochemical improvement. Previously defective eye movement control and gaze became normal, hyperventilation ceased, and excessive organic acid excretion in urine was abolished. She remains on long‐term biotin and at age 2 years her development appears normal in all

Abstract

The North Kuwait Jurassic Complex (NKJC) consists of five fields, each with three identified reservoirs within the naturally fractured Jurassic carbonate formation. These reservoirs contain multiple fluid types (gas-condensate and volatile oil) at near-critical conditions. Multiple scenario production forecasts are required to prepare an optimal development plan for the complex. Current compartmentalization understanding based on geological and engineering data led to 24 isolated segments for which up to 24 separate simulation models can be potentially built. Because of global production targets and constraints, these models cannot be run in isolation. A multiple reservoir simulations coupling controller that dynamically apportions global production targets among different reservoirs is used for the purpose. Compositions from different reservoirs are needed for surface facility design and operation. Compositional simulation is prohibitively computationally expensive for a multi-scenari

Abstract

Study Objective To assess the efficacy of both Bonfils and GlideScope in obese patient with difficult airways for bariatric surgery using awake intubation. Design Comparative study. Setting Operating room. Patients The study was carried out on 60 patients, for laparoscopic bariatric surgery, after approval of the Medical Ethics Committee and having an informed written consent from each patient. Patients were randomly categorized into 2 equal groups 30 patients in each group. Interventions Awake intubation with either Retromolar Bonfils or GlideScope. Measurements Time to visualize the laryngeal inlet, time of intubation, time of scope manipulation, success rate at each attempt, the lowest oxygen saturation, hemodynamic parameters, and any complication. Main Results Regarding intubation criteria, GlideScope achieves shorter times compared with Retromolar for visualization of the vocal cords and intubation, in addition to less intubation attempts, but both without a statistically signifi

Abstract

Real-time azimuthal acoustic measurements were introduced recently in the logging-while-drilling (LWD) industry. For the first time, this technology was used as part of the bottomhole assembly (BHA) to acquire information related to principal stress orientations in the deltaic to marine Zubair clastic sequence of onshore Kuwait. A deviated 8.5-in. hole section of the well was planned through sand-shale sublayers with a borehole inclination ranging from 46 to 88°. This section is characterized by time sensitive borehole deterioration and significant variations in pore pressure. These factors result in severe hole instability and ultimately stuck pipe events and require relatively high mud weights to maintain wellbore stability. LWD azimuthal acoustic technology, free from chemical sources, was used for the first time both in drilling and wipe modes to facilitate time-lapse field stress and wellbore stability analysis. Principal stress orientations were identified from three different so

Abstract

The rapid advancement of machine learning techniques has opened up new possibilities for improving lithology estimation for outstanding reservoir characterization. This study introduces a groundbreaking machine learning model specifically developed for lithology estimation utilizing measurement data from Multi-Detector Pulsed Neutron (MDPN) logging. Traditional methods of lithology estimation have relied on limited data inputs, and non-automated interpretation leading to significant uncertainties and inconsistencies. On the other side, the proposed machine learning model is considered as an automated approach that is trained over well-log big data combined with high-computation advanced artificial neural networks algorithm. The model undergoes extensive data preprocessing and analytics, feature engineering, training and optimizing the model architecture/parameters, and model evaluation workflow. By leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, the proposed model is qualified to lear

Abstract

The inherent complexity of the processes and the volatile nature of petroleum products compel the petroleum industry to continually seek and develop tools and techniques to identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential risks that can negatively impact their process operations. Additionally, government agencies and nonprofit professional societies guide the petroleum industry with regulatory guidelines, standards, and recommended best practices. The industry and these agencies and societies work to improve operational management, to ensure safe working conditions, and to minimize risk of all kinds, so that if failures occur, damage is contained within tolerable limits. This paper defines the establishment of "Health, Safety and Environment Risk Management System in the Oil Industry" course in Kuwait's Academic institutes. Not only it is designed to cover the technical aspects of HSE in the oil and gas industry, but it also enhances soft skills many students tend to overlook such as communi

Abstract

A mature and congested field with multi-stacked sandstone reservoirs has been developed through depletion drive for 50 years and more recently with peripheral water injection. Currently, the field performance shows rising water-cut in some reservoir units and pressure depletion in others, but still has significant remaining development potential. A field development plan has been established to economically produce bypassed oil, driven by the analysis of the historical performance data for the different reservoir units. Integrated analysis of historical data and development decisions identified the subsurface and operational drivers behind the increased water-cut and differential pressure depletion. This paved way for developing clear recommendations for the major development decisions on well and completion type, well spacing and waterflood strategy. Oil production type curves generated for each reservoir unit using recent infill drilling historical production data helped establish th

Abstract

In this paper we show how to extend seismic-driven earth model building into the domain of geomechanics and drilling. A mechanical earth model (MEM) is a quantitative description of rock mechanical properties and in-situ stresses in the subsurface. Formation strength and in-situ stress are key components that impact well design. Most mechanical earth models, even today, are one-dimensional (1D), based on well and drilling data alone. The concept of using seismically derived horizons and velocities to extend the MEM into 3D space was introduced a few years ago. Very recently, a few authors have demonstrated the power of seismic inversion to improve the resolution and quality of a 3D MEM. We present a case-study from Kuwait (Sabriyah field) where a 3D geomechanical model was built using a combination of wellbore geomechanics, geologic structure, and seismic inversion-derived litho-facies and elastic properties. We show critical challenges facing seismic-based geomechanical model-building

Abstract

Desalting/dehydration plants (DDP) are often installed in crude oil production units in order to remove water-soluble salts from an oil stream. This paper describes the development of simple inferential estimators for product quality of the desalting/dehydration process. The inferential estimators were constructed to capture the relationship between the product quality of the plant and the process input variables. Five input process variables that are known to influence product quality were considered. These include temperature, settling time, mixing time, chemical dosage, and dilution rate. The product quality of the desalting/dehydration process was identified by the salt removal and water cut efficiencies. Hence, inferential estimators were used to infer the salt removal and water cut efficiencies from the five input process variables. These inferential estimators were constructed based on the application of both multiple linear and principal component analysis as well as non-linear

Abstract

The Innovation & Technology (I&T) group at Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has been working to build and develop Kuwaiti Researcher capabilities, to be "ready" to execute R&D projects in line with the requirements of the KOC Technology Roadmap. The R&D Planning & Support team has designed and implemented a unique initiative to build this researcher capability, using a DACUM based Structured On-the-Job Training (S-OJT) program. This paper details the capability development program designed by KOC I&T group, to build Kuwaiti Researcher capabilities for the Upstream K-companies. DACUM is an acronym that stands for "Developing a Curriculum" and involves using a systematic process to analyze and capture a job's duties and tasks, as defined by a group of high-performing incumbent workers. Through the DACUM process, the KOC Junior Researcher job was analyzed and its constituent Duties and Tasks were identified. A detailed training curriculum was defined for each Junior Researcher Task, based on the

Abstract

The volitile nature of petroleum products as well as the integral convolution of the process urged the petroleum industry to pursue techniques to recognize, assess and encompass possible hazards. Together, both government agencies and non-profitable professional societies guide industry leaders with bestrecommended practices. Hence, they aim at improving operations mamanement and ensure a safe working environment with processing facilties. Regretably, accidents due to both human errors and electromechanical failures still happen and result in numerous consequences. As a result, critics have raised concerns about the petroleum industry's safety and risk mitigation credentials and question its ability to prevent major accidents. Therefor, and in to establish a rigid safety culture, the gap between both the academia and the industry need to bridged to enhance the knowledge base of safety in the petroleum industry. The purpose of this paper to defines the establishment of HSE Risk mamangem

Abstract

This paper presents the calcareous nannofossil zonation of the Middle and Upper Jurassic of onshore Kuwait and formalizes current stratigraphic nomenclature. It also interprets the positions of the Jurassic Arabian Plate maximum flooding surfaces (MFS J10 to J110 of Sharland et al., 2001) and sequence boundaries in Kuwait, and correlates them to those in central Saudi Arabia outcrops. This study integrates data from about 400 core samples from 11 wells representing a nearly complete Middle to Upper Jurassic stratigraphic succession. Forty-two nannofossil species were identified using optical microscope techniques. The assemblage contains Tethyan nannofossil markers, which allow application of the Jurassic Tethyan nannofossil biozones. Six zones and five subzones, ranging in age from Middle Aalenian to Kimmeridgian, are established using first and last occurrence events of diagnostic calcareous nannofossil species. A chronostratigraphy of the studied formations is presented, using the r

Abstract

The North Kuwait Jurassic Complex (NKJC) consists of six green fields with four identified reservoirs in the naturally fractured Jurassic carbonate formation. An integrated model has been constructed by incorporating seismic, geological, petrophysical, and engineering data to estimate the hydrocarbon pore volumes and to provide multiscenario production forecasts under various assumptions. A discrete fracture network (DFN) model was also incorporated using image logs, core data, and volume curvature attributes. The DFN model is further upscaled into a dual-porosity dynamic simulation model. Fracture characterization in the dynamic model requires translating the DFN attributes into three-directional permeability, aperture, and matrix-fracture transfer functions. Because of the inherent uncertainty of the fracture properties (fracture length, aperture, permeability, intensity, and connectivity) and the uncertainty involved in translating the "forest" of fractures into a dual-porosity mode

Abstract

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is serious conditions that happen as a result of infection, side effects to medications, or unknown etiology. Carbamazepine is one of the common medications that can cause SJS. Good history taking is crucial if treatment with carbamazepine is clinically indicated. We would like to alert all physicians that carbamazepine should be avoided in any patient with a previous history of drug reaction such as mast cell activation syndrome. © 2020 The Authors. Clinical Case Reports published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd

Abstract

Hydatid disease, also known as cystic echinococcosis, is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. It usually invades organs such as the liver and the lungs but can affect any organ. Isolated cardiac involvement is a rare manifestation. We present a case of isolated left ventricle hydatid cyst with negative serological tests, which was treated with surgical removal and confirmed by histopathological examination. © EFIM 2023.

Abstract

Drugs that inhibit voltage-dependent sodium channels are commonly used to treat epilepsy. Old and novel antiepileptic drugs are used either as monotherapy or in combination to control epilepsy. For a long time, carbamazepine has been used as the first choice for the treatment of simple and complex partial seizures. In the USA, lacosamide was approved in October 2008 as an adjunctive treatment for partial-onset seizures. We describe the effect of two sodium channel blockers on the heart of a patient with epilepsy. European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine © EFIM 2021.

Abstract

While a number of techniques (Freire et al., 1988; Maraschini et al., 2016, Hinds et al., 1996), have been described in the literature for wavefield separation, the median filter (Haradage, 1985) is still used by most contractors the vast majority of the time. This paper demonstrates the benefits of a cascaded principal component analysis (PCA) approach. More accurate and robust wavefield separation will allow more information about earth properties and multiples to be extracted. © 2017 SEG.

Abstract

[No abstract available]

Abstract

This paper presents a case history application of real-time fiber-optic technology in the Bahrah oil field, onshore Kuwait. A primary challenge during openhole swellable packer completion operations with multistage fracturing is understanding the number of fractures induced in the formation, particularly in heterogeneous formations where the fracture pressure energy will be distributed along the openhole section. Therefore, fiber-optic technology was selected for the Bahrah project. The application consists in diagnosing a tight carbonate reservoir after multistage acid fracturing and milling the baffles of a production sleeve completion to obtain a well production profile. This technology consists of a fiber-optic cable and a modular sensing bottomhole assembly (BHA). The fiber-optic cable provides distributed temperature sensing (DTS), whereas the BHA is used to monitor pressure, temperature, and the casing collar locator (CCL) in real time. The usual procedure when using conventiona