Abstract
The exploitation of ultradeep, fractured, and low-porosity gas reservoirs often encounters challenges from water invasion, exacerbated by the presence of faults and fractures. This is particularly evident in the Kelasu gas reservoir group, located in the Kuqa Depression of the Tarim Basin. The complexity of the water invasion patterns in these reservoirs demands a thorough investigation to devise effective water control measures. To elucidate the water invasion patterns, a combined approach of large-scale physical modeling and discrete fracture numerical simulations was adopted. These models allowed for the identification and categorization of water invasion behaviors in various gas reservoirs. Furthermore, production dynamic analysis was utilized to tailor water control strategies to specific invasion patterns. The large-scale physical simulation experiment revealed that water invasion in gas reservoirs is primarily influenced by high-permeability channels (faults + fractures), and that the gas production rate serves as the key factor governing gas reservoir development. The range of gas extraction rates spans from 3% to 5%. As the gas extraction rate increases, the extraction intensity diminishes and the stable production duration shortens. On the basis of the changes in the water breakthrough time and water production rate, a 2% gas extraction rate is determined as the optimal rate for the model. The embedded discrete fracture numerical simulation model further supports the findings of the physical simulation experiments and demonstrates that ① this type of gas reservoir exhibits typical nonuniform water invasion patterns, controlled by structural location, faults, and degree of crack development; ② the water invasion patterns of gas reservoirs can be categorized into three types, these being explosive water flooding and channeling along faults, uniform intrusion along fractures, and combined intrusion along faults and fractures; ③ drawing from the characteristics of water invasion in various gas reservoirs, combined with production well dynamics and structural location, a five-character water control strategy of “prevention, control, drainage, adjustment, and plugging” is formulated, with the implementation of differentiated, one-well, one-policy governance. The study concludes that a proactive approach, prioritizing prevention, is crucial for managing water-free gas reservoirs. For water-bearing reservoirs, a combination of three-dimensional water plugging and drainage strategies is recommended. These insights have significant implications for extending the productive lifespan of gas reservoirs, enhancing recovery rates, and contributing to the economic and efficient development of ultradeep, fractured, and low-porosity gas reservoirs.