Wireless Downhole Gauges Help Maximize Value of Appraisal Test in Abandoned Well

This paper describes the acquisition and interpretation of long-term pressure-buildup data in a plugged and abandoned deepwater appraisal well. To accomplish the test objectives at an acceptable cost, a novel combination of well testing, wireless-gauge technology, and material-balance techniques was used to allow the collection and interpretation of reservoir-pressure data over a planned period of 6 to 15 months following the well test. The final buildup duration was 428 days (14 months).

Introduction

Three interpretation methods of increasing complexity were used to provide insights into the reservoir. First, material balance was used to produce an estimate of the minimum connected reservoir volume.