Fluid PVT (Pressure-Volume-Temperature) properties are fundamental to every stage of hydrocarbon engineering, influencing reserve estimates, production forecasts, and flow behavior in both reservoirs and wells. These properties may originate from laboratory experiments, empirical correlations, or equation-of-state models. While commercial simulators provide all these data sources, inconsistent application can lead to significant variations in outcomes.
This presentation examines the generation and adaptation of PVT data for software applications, compares results derived under different laboratory and surface-condition assumptions, and demonstrates how improper PVT selection can profoundly affect simulation results and engineering decision-making.
Location
Online
Date
16 March 2021
Time
4:00 PM
Bio / Abstract
Volumetric and flow-related properties—commonly referred to as PVT values—are central to hydrocarbon production calculations. From reserves estimation to wellbore flow optimization and reservoir simulation, parameters such as fluid density, gas solubility in oil, oil shrinkage, and gas condensation are critical inputs.
PVT data can be obtained from three primary sources: laboratory measurements leading to PVT tables, field-data-based correlations, and Equation of State (EoS) models. Each approach has advantages and limitations. Modern commercial software supports all three types, often creating ambiguity regarding how the data should be entered and applied.
This presentation provides an analytical framework for generating, transforming, and correctly implementing PVT data in reservoir simulators. It discusses differences between values obtained from Differential Vaporization (DV) and Constant Volume Depletion (CVD) studies, compared with those accounting for the presence of surface separator trains. The session also explores the impact of incorrect PVT selection on simulation results, including reserves estimation and future production forecasts.
Biography
Dr. Vassilis Gaganis holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Patras, Greece, and an MSc and PhD in Petroleum Engineering from the Technical University of Crete, Greece, where he worked as a research associate. He is currently a Professor at the National Technical University of Athens, School of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering.
Dr. Gaganis has provided consultancy services for numerous service and software companies, including Schlumberger, SiS, Kappa Engineering, and Petroleum Experts. He is the author of more than 50 journal and conference papers, holds one international patent, and has taught petroleum engineering courses at several universities.