An Enhanced Potential Fluid Theory Approach for Horizontal-well Productivity Calculations

Horizontal wells have emerged as a new alternative to vertical wells for optimal reservoir exploitation. The vertical to horizontal permeability anisotropy is a crucial variable in deciding which configuration can provide the best performance. This work presents the derivation of an improved equation using potential-fluid theory to calculate the productivity of horizontal wells. Furthermore, a production potential assessment of horizontal wells in comparison to vertical wells by productivity indices using the proposed equation is presented. The results show that a horizontal well could produce oil at a rate two to six times greater than an unstimulated vertical well, assuming the same pressure drawdown.