Publications | Indonesian Petroleum Association

Automation of Intermittent Well Operations: Enhancing Gas Production in Marginal Fields Through Innovative Open-Close Mechanisms

Year: 2025 Authors: Kusuma, D., H, Yudha, W., Afriawandi, D. Rizal, M., Jamain, A.

Keywords: Marginal fields, automation system, gas production, intermittent wells, logistical challenges, operational safety, production, remote environment, reservoir pressure, well integrity,

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Proceedings Title : Proc. Indon. Petrol. Assoc., 49th Ann. Conv., 2025

Marginal fields like the Tunu North Field in the Mahakam Delta, East Kalimantan, operated by PT. Pertamina Hulu Mahakam, face unique challenges in maintaining efficient production. This field produces around 35 MMSCFD of gas and 2,500 BOPD from over 310 active wells, with approximately 200 wells using intermittent cycles.

These intermittent cycles alternate between shut-in periods, allowing reservoir pressure to build and push down liquids into the reservoirs, and production phases when maximum pressure is achieved. Managing these cycles manually across a remote, offshore/swamp environment has historically posed logistical and operational issues, including dependence on sea transportation, limited operator availability, and risks from extreme weather conditions.

To overcome these challenges, a new automation system was designed and implemented in 31 intermittent wells. The system integrates advanced components - pressure sensors, pressure switches, pneumatic logic circuits, and volume bottles - to enable autonomous opening and closing of wells based on specific pressure thresholds. Each well is set to transition to production once it reaches its target pressure, dependent on its unique reservoir characteristics, and returns to shut-in at a minimum pressure limit. This cycle continues seamlessly, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. The automation system was developed to enhance operational safety and integrates with existing shutdown protocols to ensure well integrity.

The impact of this automation has been significant. Transportation costs have dropped, operator risks have been minimized, and production efficiency has increased. The automated system has successfully reactivated wells with rapid pressure buildup, yielding an additional cumulative gas production of 1,029 MMSCF from January 2023 to July 2024. This initiative underscores the potential of automation to enhance productivity, safety, and sustainability in marginal fields, setting a new standard for intermittent well operations while awaiting further interventions.