Reduction of the horizontal wellʹs heel–toe effect with inflow control devices

The specific inflow rate of fluid into a horizontal well normally varies along the wellʹs completion length due to either frictional pressure losses (the heel–toe effect) or reservoir permeability heterogeneity. Such variations usually negatively affect the oil sweep efficiency and the ultimate recovery. Inflow control devices (ICDs) are a mature well completion technology that provides a more uniform inflow profile by exerting a greater restriction on high specific inflow rate zones. This paper discusses a new method to quantify the reduction of inflow imbalance caused by the frictional pressure loss along a horizontal completion in a homogeneous reservoir. We derive the equation describing this phenomenon and propose two solutions: an analytical approximation and a more precise numerical solution. The trade-off between well productivity and inflow equalisation is a key engineering issue when applying ICD technology. Our solutions quantitatively address this issue. Their practical utility is illustrated through a real field case study.