A decision analysis model for comparing drilling well completion techniques

Oil and gas companies continually face decisions on the outlay of capital. One such decision concerns the method by which a well is completed when multiple pay zones (producing horizons) exist within that wellbore. This paper proposes an approach to examine the economic implications of the three most widely used and accepted techniques for completing such wells. These methods are dual completion (producing two zones simultaneously), single completion with an alternate zone accessible by wireline, and a single completion with a future rig recompletion to the alternate zone. The preferred method varies from one company to another with decisions being based on past experiences and other discretionary parameters. A simulation model that examines all recognized variables for these alternatives through decision analysis is developed. The results generated by the model should serve as a guide for determining which completion technique is most feasible considering the pertinent design variables of each situation in a company.