Well performance analysis of a vertical oil well using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Abstract

Flow behavior in oil wells is a complex phenomenon defined by the interaction between the wellbore and the reservoir, as well as the technical and environmental risks associated with hydrocarbon extraction. In a global context that demands responsible production and consumption, the implementation of technological solutions to understand fluid behavior and reduce inefficiencies is increasingly necessary. Accordingly, this work presents a performance analysis of a vertical well using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) under single-phase, steady-state, and natural flow conditions. Based on the literature, a geometric model of the well was developed governed by the Navier-Stokes equations, using Darcy's law for validation. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of flow rate, reservoir permeability, well diameter, and crude oil type on the wellbore-reservoir interaction. The results were compared with well performance curves and other indicators, showing a deviation of less than 1% between the theoretical pressure drop and the simulation data across all cases. These findings demonstrate that the implemented model is capable of accurately simulating and predicting the behavior of the selected well system.