Software To Predict Liquid Loading In Gas Wells

Abstract Liquid loading is a common problem for gas producers. Better prediction of liquid loading will help operators in reducing costs (fewer shutdowns) and improving revenue (greater production). The objective of this thesis is to develop a software to predict liquid loading in gas wells. Guo et al.'s Four Phase Mist Flow Model and Turner et al.'s Entrained Droplet Model were incorporated into the software as the prediction models. These models predict Liquid loading by determining the minimum flow rate of gas that will transport all its liquid content to surface effectively. The software was designed using Visual Basic and it benefits the operator in the following ways. Timely Prediction of Onset of Liquid Loading Optimum Field Development Reduces frequency of workover by using proper liquid unloading techniques and hence unnecessary costs Increases total profitability of the venture. The software is very user friendly and gives the user the opportunity to select what system of unit he is comfortable with. Sensitivity Analysis can also be carried out to see the possibility of occurrence of liquid loading when certain parameters (Tubing ID, Liquid-Gas Interfacial Tension, etc.) are varied. The software will continually be modified to become an integrated package to help Operators manage liquid loading issues optimally.