Variable cell model for simulating gas condensate reservoir performance

A variable cell model for simulating gas condensate reservoir performance has been developed. The model closely approximates predictions of conventional compositional models but would only require a fraction of the computation time. The characteristic trend of oil saturation profiles, which is exhibited when gas condensate wells produce below dew point pressure, was utilized to divide the reservoir into three concentric regions. Each region is simulated by one cell, and the volume of each cell is varied as production continues. Dew point pressure and phase behavior of the reservoir fluid control expansion of the inner first and second cells and contraction of the exterior third cell. The model was used to study the effect of liquid flow on well-stream fluid composition. Also, the influence of reservoir fluid phase equilibria data on the extent of two phase flow dominated region was investigated.