Sequential short-term optimization of gas lift using linear programming: A case study of a mature oil field in Russia

The present study examines the sequential optimization of total lifting-gas allocation into multiple producing wells via linear programming for the maximization of oil production in a mature field located in Russia. Because the injection rate of lifting gas depends on the well production status, the ten-year gas lift schedule is determined by performing the gas lift optimization on a sequential, bi-weekly basis. For each short-term production optimization, the linear programming is solved by considering four operating parameters (e.g., tubing head pressure, bottom hole pressure, oil production rate, and gas lifting rate) which are calculated via high-fidelity reservoir simulation runs. Compared to the constant rate injection case, the optimal injection case increases the cumulative oil production by 14% at the same expenditure. These numerical results indicate that the sequential short-term optimization of the gas lift can be a practical approach towards boosting the asset value of a mature oil field with consideration for the well production status.