TABLE OF CONTENTS This chapter describes waterflood surveillance techniques in the light of the reservoir management approach. [1], [2] This approach considers a system consisting of reservoir characterization, fluids and their behavior in the reservoir, creation and operation of wells, and surface processing of the fluids. These are interrelated parts of a unified system. The function of reservoir management in waterflood surveillance is to provide facts, information, and knowledge necessary to control operations and to obtain the maximum possible economic recovery from a reservoir.
Guidelines for waterflood asset management should include information on (1) reservoir characterization, (2) estimation of pay areas containing recoverable oil, (3) analysis of pattern performance, (4) data gathering, (5) well testing and reservoir pressure monitoring, and (6) well information database.
Today, sufficient performance history is available that surveillance techniques can be documented in detail. This appendix highlights waterflooding in light of practical reservoir management practices. Case studies that illustrate the best surveillance practices are referenced.
[1]Talash, A. W. "An Overview of Waterflood Surveillance and Monitoring," JPT (December 1988): 1539-43.
[2]Thakur, G. C. "Waterflood Surveillance Techniques-A Reservoir Management Approach," JPT (October 1991): 1180-1188.
Key monitoring points in the traditional waterflood cycle are described in Figure 9-1. In the past, attention was focused mainly on reservoir performance. [1] However, with the application of the reservoir management approach, it has become industry practice to include wells, facilities, water system, and operating conditions in surveillance programs.
