Dynamic plunger lift model for deliquification of shale gas wells. (4th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gupta, Arun; Kaisare, Niket S.; Nandola, Naresh N.
• Is Part Of: Computers & chemical engineering. Volume 103(2017)
• Page Start: 81
• Page End: 90
• Publication Date: 2017-08-04
• Subjects: Hybrid state model -- Artificial lift -- Plunger lift -- Upstream oil and gas -- Simulation -- Periodic process; Chemical engineering -- Data processing -- Periodicals; 660.0285
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compchemeng.2017.03.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0098-1354

Abstract

Highlights: A model for simulation of one or more cycles of plunger lift process is presented in a hybrid state model (HSM) framework. The model automatically switches between six modes of operation based on operating valve and autonomous events. Trends of measured surface pressures and flowrates, as well as unmeasured well bottom conditions are predicted. Efficient prediction of trends allows analysis of plunger lift operation in presence of large input disturbances. Abstract: This paper presents first principles model for operation of a plunger lift system in natural gas wells. The model consists of pressure and flow dynamics of fluids in annulus and the central tubing sections of the well, and dynamics of plunger fall and rise in the tubing. System dynamics switch on shutting or opening the production valve, and with autonomous events related to plunger motion. A nonlinear hybrid model is realized with nine states, switching though six stages (modes) of operation. This is the first instance of modeling complex system of plunger lift using a standard hybrid system model (HSM) framework. The resulting model is used to present insight into plunger lift operation, including an efficient simulation of multiple plunger cycles and analysis of effect of uncertainties on the well behavior.