The optimization of the well pattern thinning at high water cut stages in CD Heterogeneity oilfield

Water-flooding reservoirs often face challenges such as low remaining geological reserves and high production costs during the high water cut stage. Well pattern thinning presents a promising solution by increasing the geological reserve controlled by the well pattern and reducing production costs, thereby enabling the economic development of water-flooding reservoirs during high water cut periods. In this paper, we have chosen the Z reservoir of CD heterogeneity oilfield as a case study to investigate and analyze various well pattern thinning schemes using reservoir numerical simulation. The impact of different fluid properties on the development effect after well pattern thinning in the Z reservoir is also investigated. An optimization model for single-well production is also developed to determine the optimal production rate after well pattern thinning. The results indicate that the production rate after well pattern thinning surpasses that before the thinning process, and further optimization of production rates post-thinning can enhance the development effect.