Integrated downhole monitoring of hydraulically fractured production wells

The first-phase development of Athel formation in south Oman relies on massive hydraulic-fracture stimulation to realize economic production rates. Fracture size, shape, and direction are key parameters in prediction of well performance, optimum well placement, and fracture-design optimization. Because of the highly laminated geology, early assessment of flow barriers and dynamic reservoir behavior are crucial to managing long-term recovery. To acquire data addressing each of these issues, an integrated permanent downhole data-acquisition system is being installed in Phase I production wells. The system uses a unique combination of tubing-conveyed gauges and triaxial geophones to deliver real-time bottomhole pressure (BHP) and temperature and microseismic data during both stimulation and production.