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Dynamic Data Analysis – v5.12.01 - © KAPPA 1988-2017
Chapter
3 – P ressure Transient Analysis (PTA)- p57/743
3 –
Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA)
OH – OSF – DV
3.A
Introduction (with a short history)
The following sections present the classical and modern methodology and tools developed for
Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA). We will present the typical path recommended to perform
an analysis and to design a test. The final sections are dedicated to operational considerations
on well testing i.e. what data to gather and its validation
When PTA was still called Well Test Interpretation, analyses were performed on data acquired
during dedicated operations called well tests. Typical well test set-up is shown in the figure
below. Temporary equipment is installed downhole and at surface, the well is put on
production under a predefined program and the diagnostic is performed, generally on a shut-in
period after a clean-up phase, an initial shut-in and a stable production phase during which
producing rates are measured at the separator.
Fig. 3.A.1 – Typical well test setup
The data absolutely required to perform a PTA are the rates, the pressures (preferably
downhole), the fluid PVT and a few additional parameters (well radius, pay zone, etc) required
to switch from a qualitative to a quantitative analysis.
Fig. 3.A.2 – Required data for Analysis