Abstract
Formation Damage laboratory testing is routinely performed to select optimum drilling, completion, and other fluids prior to their deployment in wells. Major decisions which impact the productivity or injectivity of wells and fields are often based on laboratory tests. This paper aims to resolve some of the arguments and diversity in the procedures for laboratory formation damage tests and present clear evidence to support opinions expressed on the merits of particular tests.
This paper describes in detail some of the procedures which need to be considered when conducting or ordering formation damage laboratory tests. From core preparation through to simulation of production, the differences between test methods are discussed and the authors express clear opinions on what they consider as the best approach.
Some of the biggest pitfalls which are encountered when designing laboratory tests are explained and guidelines are presented, backed by clear evidence which point towards particular methods and away from others.
he latest advances in test design and test result interpretation are presented. The current and potential use of laboratory data is discussed and the authors present their opinions on likely future advances and the direction of future research in this critical area.
The paper concludes that laboratory formation damage testing is worthwhile but it must be carefully planned and designed. The various test methodologies must be carefully considered in order for the results to predict or reflect real well and reservoir performance.