How to calculate simulation models faster without additional hardware costs: a set of analytical methods in SimBoost

Abstract

Introduction. Acceleration of reservoir simulation is necessary to reduce uncertainty and improve the quality of investment decisions in field development.

Objective. Study of the possibility of accelerating reservoir simulation without increasing hardware capacities: by adjusting convergence parameters and model properties (smoothing properties based on outlier detection filters, "additional" property upscaling).

Materials and methods. The SimBoost soft ware package has been developed, which includes various approaches to reducing calculation time and error control. It was tested on the company's simulation models: each method was tested individually and also in combination with other methods.

Results. It was shown that acceleration depends on calculating error method and model properties. The average acceleration due to the adjustment of convergence parameters is 30 % in the case of an error analysis based on the total flow rate and average pressure in model, and 16 % in the case of an error analysis based on flow rate and bottom-hole pressure in each well. One can also increase the acceleration if additionally adjust the properties of the model.

Conclusions. SimBoost soft ware implements algorithms for adjustment convergence parameters and correcting model properties. Combining different acceleration methods to achieve the best result seems promising. Therefore, it is planned to develop SimBoost as a comprehensive solution that allows users to build the acceleration process using various methods.