Integrated dynamic simulators have proved to add undisputed value during all field development and operational stages from concept, design and start-up throughout operation and revamp
Over decades, BPT has built-up invaluable experience in using integrated dynamic simulators, combining industry-leading multiphase transient flow models and dynamic process simulators, to validate and improve design as well as troubleshoot operation in more than 80 projects.
Why bother about integrating two perceived “complicated” and “expensive” simulators?Why not using each of them standalone with some defined assumptions?
For some production systems that will work out well. However, in many upstream production systems, it is significant dynamic interactions between wells/flowlines/risers and topside/onshore processing facilities. These interactions could be rater complex to cover in standalone simulators and carry quite a bit uncertainty (especially since field design today is much more marginal than in the past).
Therefore, in many cases, it is easier, quicker and more cost effective to cover this with a standardized integrated simulator approach.
As an example, a multiphase flow model will provide much more realistic boundary conditions to a dynamic process simulator, where flow instabilities like slugs or surges, pigging operation, inhibitor transportation and gas lift are realistically represented during start-up, normal and abnormal situations. It’s also a critical factor in process safety considerations.
On the other side, a dynamic process simulator has much higher fidelity when it comes to control system and details downstream 1st stage separator where dynamics often propagates. Likewise, the fluid representation or PVT will be much more detailed in a process simulator.
Experience has showed that integrated simulators adds significant value in many aspects, in all phases of field development, operational readiness and start-up stages as well as throughout field life.
Reference use cases: