Review of Studies on the Phenomenon of Bottom Water Coning During the Development of Oil and Gas Reservoirs

Abstract

Review articles play a crucial role in scientific research by summarizing existing knowledge on a specific topic, assessing its relevance, and identifying directions for further studies. This paper analyzes the results of theoretical and experimental research dedicated to the influence of geological, physical, and technological factors on the water encroachment process in production wells during the development of reservoirs with bottom water. The analysis covers a broad range of issues, including the prediction of bottom water cone development in vertical and horizontal wells, the evaluation of critical water-free oil and gas flow rates, and the impact of reservoir anisotropy on the rise and subsidence of the water cone. Special attention is given to the effectiveness of various water control methods, including pressure drawdown limitation, the use of water shutoff screens, co-production of oil or gas and water, as well as the application of periodic well operation technologies to regulate the subsidence of the bottom water cone. Classical coning models, mathematical calculation results, and their comparative analysis are reviewed. A particular focus is placed on how comprehensively the researchers have addressed the topic, how critically they have assessed the study results, and whether they have managed to formulate an objective and structured understanding of the subject. Based on the conducted analysis, the strengths and weaknesses of existing forecasting methods and technologies for controlling bottom water coning are identified, along with their practical significance and prospects for further research in the field of managing the development of oil and gas reservoirs underlain by bottom water. An important aspect of this work is the emphasis on the need for additional studies on the patterns of bottom water cone rise and subsidence during the development of gas and gas-condensate reservoirs. The findings presented in this study may be valuable both for researchers studying coning processes and for engineers working on optimizing reservoir development under water drive conditions.