A material balance based practical analysis method to improve the dynamic reserve evaluation reliability of ultra-deep gas reservoirs with ultra-high pressure

Ultra-deep major gas fields are typically characterized by high and ultra-high pressure, tight matrix and developed fractures, so the reserve estimation is of higher uncertainty. In order to accurately estimate the reserves of this type of gas reservoir, this paper analyzed the correlation between the effective rock compressibility and the cumulative effective rock compressibility based on the material balance equation of high and ultra-high pressure gas reservoirs, and accordingly selected the material balance based analysis method suitable for the reserves estimation of high and ultra-high pressure gas reservoirs. Then, the starting calculation conditions of reserve estimation were determined using the non-linear regression method. In addition, a semi-logarithmic type curve matching method was established for the cases where the starting conditions could not be met. Finally, this method was applied to calculate the reserves of three ultra-high pressure gas fields (reservoirs) to verify its reliability. And the following research results were obtained. First, the cumulative effective compressibility of gas reservoir in the material balance equation of high and ultra-high pressure gas reservoir is a key parameter influencing its reserves, and it is the function of original formation pressure and current average formation pressure, but its numerical value can be hardly obtained by core experiments. Second, it is recommended to adopt the nonlinear regression method without compressibility to estimate the reserves of high and ultra-high pressure gas reservoirs. Third, the calculation starting point of reserves by the nonlinear regression method (the starting point of dimensionless apparent formation pressure-cumulative gas production curve deviating from the straight line relationship) cannot be theoretically calculated. The calculation starting point for different dimensionless linear coefficients (ωD) obtained from the statistical results by the graphic method corresponds to the dimensionless apparent pressure depletion degree of 0.06–0.38, and that obtained based on the data statistics of the example gas reservoir falls within this interval. Fourth, when the starting conditions are not satisfied, the semi-logarithmic type curve matching method can be used for reserve estimation. The ratio of the reserves to the apparent geological reserves G/Gapp is a function of ωD.The higher the ωD, the lower the G/Gapp. Fifth, for the high and ultra-high pressure gas reservoirs in the production test stage, the test production time shall be extended as long as possible to improve the reliability of reserve estimation. And for those in the middle and late stages of development, it is necessary to prepare the comprehensive treatment measures on the basis of reserves so as to improve the development effects of gas reservoirs continuously.