November 15, 2024 [Storage Terminals Magazine]- TAQA, an international energy solutions provider headquartered in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi, UAE, has unveiled its latest innovation: the M4 Inflow Control System. This next-generation system is designed to enable operators to optimise reservoir performance while sustainably managing fluid production, addressing longstanding industry challenges.
The M4 Inflow Control System distinguishes itself by effectively regulating the flow of undesirable fluids, such as water and gas, without the binary (open/close) effect that can lead to production instability or stoppage. This advanced system is particularly adept at controlling water in ultra-light and light applications and enhances gas production control, ensuring stability and flexibility across varied reservoir conditions.
One of the key features of the M4 technology is its highly sensitive pilot control system, which is density-responsive and can accommodate a broad range of oil types, including ultra-light, light, medium, and heavy oils. Additionally, the M4 system incorporates advanced multi-phase control, enabling it to function seamlessly regardless of its orientation within the wellbore.
Dr Mojtaba Moradi, TAQA’s subsurface engineering manager, commented: “With the largest portfolio of inflow control systems and over two decades of expertise in inflow control devices, the M4 Inflow Control System represents the pinnacle of our innovation. This new generation offers water control by gradually reducing inflow as water production increases, avoiding premature well shutdowns. The primary advantage is precision control based on reservoir production, allowing operators to maximise output while maintaining continuous and efficient production, resulting in clear financial benefits.”
TAQA’s M4 Inflow Control System is designed for seamless integration within the company’s full range of inflow solutions, enhancing performance across various well and reservoir types. The system includes operational benefits such as last-minute capacity changes and the capability to circulate to the bottom, providing flexibility and adaptability during installation at the rig site.
The M4 device is carefully engineered to maintain an open operating point for oil while remaining highly restricted for water, a balance achieved through force field analysis verified by single and multi-phase flow tests. It has been rigorously tested using a state-of-the-art multi-phase loop to evaluate its performance under diverse flow conditions involving water, oil, and gas mixtures.
The system has shown excellent functionality with oil viscosities as low as 0.5 cP, tested in conjunction with water to establish operating and control points at different water cuts. Comprehensive qualification testing, including assessments for debris, erosion, and cycle durability, has also been completed.
Current technologies on the market often struggle to control water in applications where oil viscosity is below 1 cP and may exhibit binary open/close characteristics, prematurely shutting off production zones. The M4 Inflow Control System addresses these issues, offering an advanced solution for consistent and efficient reservoir management.
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