Vol 7, No 1 (2025)
- Year: 2025
- Articles: 10
- URL: https://vestnik-ngo.kz/2707-4226/issue/view/5472
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.54859/kjogi.202571
Full Issue
Geology
Facies variability of sediments in the Jurassic productive strata of the Burmasha oilfield
Abstract
Background: The foundation for field development and the justification of oil recovery factors relyies on a precise geological model. The reliability of this geological model depends on the specific characteristics of the deposit structure. Challenges in constructing the model arise from the significant lithological and facies variability of rocks. This article examines the structural features of the Yu-IX horizon of the Middle Jurassic Bajocian Stage of the Burmasha oilfield, incorporating new seismic data using the 3D common depth point (3D CDP) method and well drilling data.
Aim: Presentation of a new geological model of the productive strata of the Burmasha oilfield based on the 3D CDP and drilling data, and determination of sedimentation conditions during the deposit formation.
Materials and methods: The study applies new data from the interpretation of the 3D CDP seismic survey. It analizes cross slices of the eXchroma attributes, spectral decomposition (SD), RMC and Vp/Vs within the productive horizon, as well as drilling data from the entire well stock of the field.
Results: The study results in the clarification of the boundaries of paleorusic deposits of the productive horizon and the determination of the sedimentation conditions in the productive strata. The data obtained show the importance of using modern exploration methods to provide a reliable geological model.
Conclusion: The findings of this study provide a more accurate representation of the geological structure, estimate the reserves of hydrocarbon raw materials (hereinafter HRM), and enable further planning of a efficient system for the field development. All this will enhance the efficiency of hydrocarbon production, mitigate the risk of penetrating the clay-rich sections, and enable strategically position of new wells in areas with beneficial reservoir properties.



Fracture Modeling of a Carbonate Reservoir: A Case Study of the East Urikhtau Field
Abstract
Background: Fracture Modeling of carbonate reservoirs plays a key role in predicting well productivity and enhancing field development efficiency. The East Urikhtau field, located in the eastern flank zone of the Pre-Caspian Depression, features a complex tectonic structure with an extensive system of faults and fractures. These geological features significantly impact the filtration and storage properties of carbonate reservoirs, making advanced geological modeling techniques necessary. A comprehensive fracture model allows a more precise evaluation of structural heterogeneities and their effect on hydrocarbon migration and accumulation.
Aim: A three-dimensional fracture model of a carbonate reservoir was developed to identify highly fractured zones and evaluate their correlation with well productivity. This model is essential for improving the accuracy of reservoir filtration-capacity property predictions and designing effective strategies for the field’s further development.
Materials and methods: Modern geological modeling techniques were applied in this study, including FMI data interpretation, core analysis, seismic attributes, and Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) modeling. Initial geological and geophysical data were processed using Petrel software, utilizing Ant Tracking and Distance to Object methods to determine fracture orientations and intensities. The developed trend model served as the foundation for discrete fracture modeling, enabling the quantitative assessment of fracture intensity and the identification of the most promising zones for further development.
Results: The results of this study demonstrate that the developed fracture model facilitated the detailed identification of highly fractured zones and established their correlation with well productivity. It was found that the most intensely fractured zones are located near faults, as confirmed by fluid flow rate analysis. The application of Ant Tracking and DFN methods reduced uncertainties in the inter-well space and improved predictions of the reservoir’s filtration-capacity properties.
Conclusion: The developed methodology allows for a more detailed characterization of the geological structure, enhances the accuracy of well productivity forecasting, and optimizes development planning. The obtained data can be used for designing new wells and adjusting field development strategies for reservoirs with dual porosity and permeability.



Oil and gas field development and exploitation
Measures for Mitigating Operational Complications at the Amangeldу Gas Condensate Field
Abstract
Background: Since commencement of the operations at the Amangeldу gas condensate field, fully separating the moisture from the condensate has proven challenging. Achieving complete moisture separation in gas condensate is essential for enhancing the technological process and preventing potential complications. To address this issue, current methods involve lowering the hydrate formation temperature in the internal gas transport pipes across various gas and gas condensate fields. In gas treatment, antihydrate inhibitors such as methanol and diethylene glycol are commonly used in flowlines, reservoirs, and various equipment. If precautions are not taken to prevent hydrate formation (inhibitors) during the production and treatment of oil, several challenges may occur. For instance, during production, the internal diameter of the flowline can diminish due to the of hydrate buildup, and in some cases, gas condensate may not flow properly due to the hydrate blockages. This can result in a reduction in the amount of products produced, or may lead to a complete shutdown of the well. Consequently, a portion of the produced products, such as gas and condensate, is sent to a flare. These production complications negatively affect the overall performance of the field.
Aim: To develop measures to prevent hydrate formation and address complications at the Amangeldу gas condensate field that may arise during production and treatment of well effluents and the transportation of these products through pipelines and plant equipment to the integrated gas treatment unit.
Materials and methods: To prevent the formation of hydrate from wells to the Central Processing Facility (CPF), it is proposed to introduce methanol (technical grade) into the gas stream using inhibitor dosing pumps. Additionally, diethylene glycol will be sprayed as a mist into the gas stream as it passes through the CPF equipment.
Results: When producing gas condensate from wells without the use of methanol and diethylene glycol, the volume of gas directed to the flare and vent stack amounts to 4.95 million m3, with a total cost of 128.7 million tenge. In contrast, if hydrate inhibitors are employed, it will be necessary to procure 180 tons and 10 tonnes of diethylene glycol, resulting total expenditure of 28 million tenge. Utilizing these hydration inhibitors has led to an estimated product savings of 100.7 million tonnes.
Conclusion: To date, the operation at the Amangelу gas condensate field have not fully addressed the separation of moisture from the gas. As a result, several issues arise during the winter month: excess moisture leads to the formation of hydrate blockage in the piplines, obstructing the flow of gas and condensate. To mitigate this issue, we propose implementing measures that involve adding methanol (methanol technical grade) to the gas stream with metering pumps of inhibitors, and diethylene glycol sprayed as a mist into the gas stream passing through the CPF equipment. These measures could also be widely applied to other gas condensate fields. By adopting these measures, it is possible not only to alleviate operational challenges but also to reduce the volume gas and condensate that is wasted and flared.



Development of an Integrated Approach to Assessing the Localization of the Residual Recoverable Oil Reserves to Enchance the Effectiveness of Geological and Technical Measures at the Uzen Field
Abstract
Background: At later development stages of oil fields using reservoir pressure maintenance technology, residual recoverable reserves undergo significant transformation, evolving from a mobile to a low-mobile and, eventually, to an immobile state. These reserves are primarily concentrated in formations and reservoir zones that are not affected by water flooding. Identifying, localising, and developing such reserves are critical for maximizing the ultimate oil recovery factor in mature fields. This issue is particularly relevant for the Uzen field, which is characterized by a high depletion level and significant water cut. When combined, these factors necessitate the optimization of geological and technical measures.
Aim: To develop and justify an integrated approach to assessing the localisation of residual oil reserves at the late stage of field development.
Materials and methods: This approach implements methodology for the construction of depletion maps based on the analytical modelling of drainage radii of production wells, as well as analysis of changes in reservoir fluid mineralization based on laboratory measurement of the composition of produced and injected water. .
Results: The results of this study demonstrate that the developed approach is highly informative. It provides a detailed picture of distribution of residual oil reserves, allows for a quantitative assessment of how different zones are involved in development, and helps improve the efficiency of the waterflooding system.
Conclusion: The proposed integrated methodological approach is an effective tool for enhanced oil recovery in mature fields, which facilitate rational management of residual oil reserves and allows for systematic implementation of production stimulation measures in conditions of high field depletion.



Algorithm for determining the mass flow rate and dryness of the thermal agent at the wellhead of steam injection wells in specialized software
Abstract
Background: Determining the mass flow rate and dryness of thermal agent at the wellhead of steam injection wells is a critical process in the operation, optimization and effective control of its injection regulation. In view of the fact that modern steam flow rate determination instruments based on measurement of variable flow of two-phase medium (steam and water), having a methodological error of more than 10%, cannot provide the necessary accuracy and reliability of measurements, there was a need to develop a calculation variant with the use of specialized software that would allow to correctly solve the problem of determining the degree of steam dryness.
Aim: Development of an algorithm for calculation of mass flow rate and dryness of thermal agent at the wellhead of steam injection wells of the K field using specialized software.
Materials and methods: Two-phase flow of steam and water in wells is a complex process, where it is important to take into account both physical properties of the medium (temperature, pressure, viscosity) and hydraulic characteristics of the system (resistance of pipelines, pressure losses). Mathematical simulation of two-phase flow “steam – water” was performed in a specialized software package by building a ground model and conducting hydraulic calculations. This specialized software complex allowed to build a mathematical model taking into account these parameters, which provides high accuracy and reliability of calculations.
Results: An algorithm for calculating the mass flow rate and dryness of the thermal agent at the wellhead of steam injection wells of the K field based on the model of the onshore steam injection system through the use of a specialized software package has been developed. Simulation allows predicting and optimizing the operation of steam injection wells. By changing model parameters (e.g., production mode, coolant parameters), the impact on well performance and system efficiency can be evaluated.
Conclusion: To date, it has not been possible to select equipment that allows correct registration of the two-phase flow of steam-heat agent injected into wells, which is typical for the conditions of the K field. The algorithm developed with the help of a specialized software package is applicable in the formation of technical solutions to improve the efficiency of control of steam injection process regulation.



Analysis of the Application of Proppant Hydraulic Fracturing in the Development of Gas Condensate Fields with Low Permeable Reservoirs of the C₁v₁ and C₁sr Deposits
Abstract
Background: The ongoing shortage of natural gas in the country necessitates enhanced efficiency in gas field development. Alongside domestic gas consumption, the demand for higher production volumes, particularly from low-permeability reservoirs, further emphasizes the relevance of this study.
Aim: To optimize the production in fields with low-permeability reservoirs through proppant hydraulic fracturing (HF) to increase the permeability of formations and improve well productivity.
Materials and methods: The study’s object is the gas condensate field X, located in the Moyynkum trough of the Shu-Sarysu depression in the Zhambyl region. During the study, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on the efficiency of refracturing operations, with a specific focus on proppant tonnage. As a result, a methodology for optimizing the parameters of refracturing was proposed. This methodology involves adjusting the volume of injected proppant to alter the geometry of fractures and enhance well productivity. Furthermore, a novel approach to adapting hydraulic fracturing techniques for conditions with a high risk of fluid accumulation in the wellbore has been developed. Unlike conventional solutions, this approach introduces a comprehensive production stabilization strategy that incorporates mechanized fluid removal methods, such as coiled tubing, foam-inhibiting check valves, and plunger elevators.
Results: It was determined that maintaining the initial injection volume during repeated HF operations does not significantly enhance the gas flow rate. An analysis of the post-fracturing data confirmed the effectiveness of the applied strategy, as evidenced by changes in the gas-condensate factor and the stabilization of flow rates. Additionally, soluble fibers were utilized for the first time in some wells during the HF process. The analysis indicated that their application yielded positive outcomes, including improved fracture conductivity and increased well productivity, suggesting that this technology holds promise for future implementation.
Conclusion: The findings of the study indicate that it yields higher gas production gains compared to refracturing. This highlights the significance of precise timing and careful selection of proppant volume to optimize the effectiveness of refracturing. In the X field, HF continues to be a crucial intervention for enhancing the productivity of new wells. It is advisable to conduct pre- and post-operation pressure recovery curve analyses to monitor impacts and refine the technology used. Considering the reservoir characteristics and potential pressure interferences, the operation’s design and the proppant volume must be meticulously planned to achieve the best possible outcomes.



Физико-химические и микробиологические исследования
PVT Data Evaluation and Geochemical Fingerprinting: Approaches and Results
Abstract
Background: This article examines the importance of reliable PVT data on reservoir fluid properties for calculating oil and gas reserves, as well as for making informed decisions during the design and operation of fields, using the example of the suprasalt complex of the Uaz structure. This structure is divided by tectonic faults into three flanks: southwestern, southern, and northeastern. The southern flank is separated by a feathering fault into two fields – western (Uaz Main) and eastern (Uaz East). The northeastern flank contains the Uaz North field. Over different years, PVT studies and geochemical studies (fingerprinting) have been conducted at these three fields to confirm the data.
Aim: The purpose of this work is to evaluate data from PVT studies and geochemical fingerprinting, to identify differences and similarities in reservoir fluid properties for three fields: Uaz Main, Uaz East and Uaz North.
Materials and methods: The study used data from PVT surveys conducted in different years at the three fields, as well as geochemical studies to confirm the data obtained, including the fingerprinting method. All data were used to analyze differences and similarities in fluid characteristics.
Results: The results of the analysis allowed us to identify differences and similarities in reservoir fluid properties, which contributes to more accurate data interpretation and improved field development management.
Conclusion: The obtained PVT property data and geochemical study results contribute to improving the accuracy of reserve estimation and enhancing the efficiency of field development management using the example of the Uaz structure.



The role of Capillary Hysteresis in Enhancing CO₂ Trapping Efficiency and Storage Stability
Abstract
Background: The intensifying impact of climate change demands innovative approaches to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) offers a viable solution by sequestering CO₂ in geological reservoirs. However, understanding the role of capillary hysteresis in CO₂ trapping is critical for optimizing CCS performance.
Aim: This study aims to investigate the influence of capillary hysteresis on CO₂ trapping efficiency in saline aquifers using detailed simulation models and varying hysteresis values.
Materials and methods: Advanced CMG simulation software was utilized to model CO₂ injection and migration in saline aquifers spanning depths of 1200–1300 meters. The model, initially saturated with brine, applied water-alternating-gas (WAG) injection at hysteresis values of 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 to evaluate their effect on CO₂ trapping efficiency.
Results: The simulations demonstrated a direct positive correlation between hysteresis values and CO₂ trapping efficiency. At a hysteresis value of 0.5, nearly 100% CO₂ trapping was achieved. This increased efficiency was attributed to stronger capillary forces immobilizing CO₂ more effectively and reducing mobility towards caprock, thereby minimizing leakage risks.
Conclusion: The study highlights the key role of capillary hysteresis in enhancing CO₂ sequestration. Higher hysteresis values improve long-term storage stability, emphasizing the need for optimized WAG injection strategies in CCS applications.



Digital technologies
Digital Assistant (OGPU). Software module of the ABAI information system
Abstract
Background: Research conducted by KMG Engineering LLP on the organization and mainenance of oilfield equipment (OFE) in the oil and gas production units (hereinafter referred to as OGPU) has revealed substantial opportunities to enhance equipment reliability through organizational improvements.
Aim: The software module is aimed to reduce oil production costs and increase the on-stream factor by minimizing oil losses caused by downtime of OGPU oilfield equipment and reducing costs of its repair as well as optimally distributing the workload among OGPU employees.
Materials and methods: The study analyzes statistical data over a specific period, focusing on key indicators related to labor costs, labor productivity, and other aspects. For the analysis, modern methods to calculate time standards and data processing software were applied. The study adhered to current industry standards and guidelines, including labor safety regulations, requirements for maintaining oilfield equipment, and best practices for managing production processes. The approaches used in this study ensure the objectivity and representativeness of the results obtained.
Results: Checklists and standard operating sheets have been developed. Instructional videos have been created on the basic tasks of the OGPU employees. Additionally, special software for mobile devices (smartphone, tablet) and a web version of software integrated with the ABAI Information System have been developed.
Conclusion: The implementation of the Digital Assistant (OGPU) module in the oil and gas industry marks a significant milestone towards digitalization of OFE maintenance process, greatly enhancing both efficiency and safety. Standardizating and unifying processes through mobile and web applications enhance efficiency and accuracy in information transfer, reduces errors and speeds up decision-making. Optimizing staff workload and increasing the quality of data collection not only leads to cost reduction, but also improves working environment. The project can be potentially scaled up and implemented in other divisions of the subsidiaries and affiliates of NC KazMunayGas JSC. This expamsion could open up new opportunities to increase operational efficiency in the industry.



Economy
Opportunities and Challenges for Joint Ventures in the SHIVA World: Applicability to Kazakhstan
Abstract
The purpose of the article is to analyze the opportunities and challenges faced by Joint Ventures (JVs) in the context of the SHIVA world and to assess their relevance and applicability to Kazakhstan. The study aims to identify key factors for JV success in the context of modern global challenges and uncertainties.
The following research methods were used in the article: literature review – analysis of existing studies and theoretical models of JVs and the SHIVA concept; comparative analysis – study of global and regional JV practices to identify common patterns and differences; case study – analysis of successful JVs in various industries and their applicability to Kazakhstan. The study reveals that JVs offer significant strategic benefits, including access to novel technologies, resource optimization, and market expansion. Nevertheless, challenges such as cultural disparities, governance intricacies, and knowledge safeguarding persist as critical obstacles. An analysis of global JV instances, including Tesla’s partnerships and collaborations in China’s automotive industry, underscores the significance of trust, strategic coherence, and flexible governance structures. Furthermore, in the energy industry, particularly the oil and gas sector, JVs contribute significantly to risk-sharing, technological advancement, and regulatory conformity. The integration of AI and big data analytics into energy JVs enhances predictive maintenance, reservoir modeling, supply chain visibility, and contract administration. JVs continue to be a crucial strategy for promoting global business expansion, but their success hinges on meticulous planning, effective management, and the capacity to adapt to swiftly evolving market circumstances. Digital transformation, especially through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics, is revolutionizing JV operations by improving efficiency and mitigating risks. Future JV models must focus on strategic adaptability, sustainable governance mechanisms, and digital integration in order to remain competitive in the hyper-connected global economy. In particular, the energy sector is undergoing a transformation through digitalization and AI-powered solutions, enabling companies to navigate operational intricacies, enhance decision-making processes, and achieve long-term sustainability in their JVs.


