Near-well modeling using computational fluid dynamics
We present results of accurate three-dimensional near-wellbore simulations using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). CFD takes into account the porous media flow and the free fluid flow in a single-domain approach using a hybrid Navier-Stokes/Darcy-Forchheimer formulation.
The Darcy-Forchheimer source terms are included in the momentum equations with proper accounts for relative permeability and capillary pressure in the porous media.
Standard reservoir simulators are not able to capture several phenomenas in the near-well region. With CFD we are able to evaluate complex completions, complex formation damage shapes, pressure drop in long horizontal wells, zonal control, etc. CFD also models the flow restrictions in the near-wellbore, eliminating the use of the tuning parameter known as the skin factor.