Did you know? The global crude oil production increased by 5.4% in 2022. (https://yearbook.enerdata.net/crude-oil/world-production-statistics.html) It is much above the historical trend. As the demand for oil continues to increase, the oil and gas sector strives to find ways to enhance production and boost efficiency. That is why the industry makes use of different technologies like modular screen plant, inflow control device, and more. 

However, sand production is a common problem in the oil and gas reservoirs. It not only affects the production rate but also contaminates the recovered oil. Therefore, opting for sand management services becomes vital. In this blog, you will explore how these services prove to be beneficial for the oil and gas industry. Let’s dive in!

What Causes Sand Production in Oil and Gas Reservoirs?

• Sand production may occur when the formation stress is more than the rock strength. As a result, it leads to rock failure. It is common when there is an increase in the reservoir fluid’s production rate causing a large pressure drawdown between the wellbore flowing pressure and reservoir pressure.
• Higher water cuts can lower the surface tension forces and affect the cohesiveness of the sand grains. Ultimately, the increase in water cuts leads to more sand production.
• The high viscosity of the reservoir fluids increases the rate of erosion, thereby resulting in the more generation of sand. 

How does Sand Production Affect the Oil and Gas Industry?

The production of sand can give rise to issues in both surface facilities and downholes. When the fluid velocity isn’t sufficient to eliminate the sand from the tubing, it can lead to blockages in the well. On the other hand, if the sand gets trapped in the piping equipment and networks, there can be a highpressure drop, thereby affecting the efficiency of oil and gas production. Ultimately, it leads to an increase in maintenance costs or unwanted shutdowns.

Benefits of Effective Sand Management

• Sand management services allow the oil and gas sector to minimize the loss of production and lower the associated costs significantly.
• It improves the rate of production through the optimization of proppant loading and choke schedules. As a result, the sand production rate no longer acts as a limiting factor for the choke schedule.
• The sand management services reduce the downtime and costs associated with repairing of worn-out pumps, piping, production chokes, heating coils, and dump valves.
• Effective sand management can eliminate the need for additional equipment and lower the overall budget significantly.

Conclusion

Sand management is all about minimizing the production of sand during all the phases of well production. It helps get rid of the potential issues and boost the production rates. However, choosing the best sand management services is essential to ensure optimum outcomes. Are you in search of a reputed service provider in the industry? If yes, SAZ Oilfield Services can be your ultimate destination. From cased hole gravel pack to bridge plug, they offer everything in one place. Connect with professional experts, discuss your needs, and get top-quality equipment at competitive prices.