Aug 2022
UTB Hosts International Petroleum Technical Workshop
Click below to read the full article about this petroleum technical workshop hosted by Universiti Teknologi Brunei.
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Pioneering advanced solutions for sand screen retention challenges in the oil and gas industry through innovative research and cutting-edge technology.
Established in 2020 at the Universiti Teknologi Brunei
Request Our ServicesThe Sand Retention Innovation (SRI) Lab at Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) embodies the university's vision as the "Global University of the Future" by driving innovation and research excellence.
Established in 2020 with initial funding from Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP), the Lab has developed a cutting-edge screen retention testing facility and expanded to include advanced numerical simulation capabilities and multidisciplinary expertise.
In collaboration with renowned academic partners, including the University of New South Wales and Imperial College London, SRI reflects UTB's commitment to delivering impactful solutions for the oil and gas industry while fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration globally.
As the lab has now completed BSP's original aims, we are planning to broaden access to our ongoing research. The lessons we have learned in Brunei are applicable in many other locations. We regularly present at SPE conferences and workshops, but we recognise that some operators, service companies and screen manufacturers are not just interested in seeing results, but would like to actively join us in the research process.
Stay updated with our research developments and industry insights
Click below to read the full article about this petroleum technical workshop hosted by Universiti Teknologi Brunei.
Read More →
Click below to read the full article
Read More →
Click below to read the full article
Read More →Comprehensive sand control solutions for the energy industry
We perform comparative experimental technique where water and sand slurry is passed under pressure through different screen types, then measure produced sand and retained permeability to assist with screen selection.
We calibrated Advanced simulation tools against laboratory experiments, enabling us to test high-pressure scenarios and different fluids that would be difficult to perform experimentally.
We provide detailed analysis of particle size distribution, which is critical for screen performance, along with spatial estimation techniques that outperform existing interpolation methods.
Using our radial cell, we run retention tests on cylindrical coupons to investigate radial performance at different angles of dip, helping understand screen behavior in deviated wells.
Technical expertise from our laboratory engineers, simulation engineers, and principal investigators are available to help solve your sand management challenges.
Key findings from our integrated experimental and simulation research
We observed early in the project that the dependence of screen performance on screen aperture was very weak in most cases. This suggests we need to update testing methods and consider other factors in screen selection.
Small variations in the PSD have a big difference on performance. We've developed spatial estimation techniques for particle size distributions that out-perform existing interpolation techniques to improve confidence in this critical parameter.
Given that the screen is simply a scaffold upon which the filter cake is constructed, we've found there are "good" filter cakes with high retained permeability and low produced solids, and "bad" filter cakes from the same PSD with low retained permeability.
We believe intense local forces are also percussive and result in a point failure on the screen. The hole that is created by this initial failure creates a high velocity conduit that causes lateral erosion.
Investigation of the filter cake using SEM suggests that the presence of fines will reduce the retained permeability, but will ameliorate the point stress problem. Fine clays with electrostatic charges change both the filter cake structure and particle size distribution.
State-of-the-art equipment for laboratory testing and numerical simulation
Subscription options for operators, service companies, and screen manufacturers. Contact us to learn more about our subscription models and how they can benefit your organization.
Answers to common questions about our services and research
Our testing combines traditional laboratory experiments with advanced numerical modeling, allowing us to test a wider range of conditions than conventional methods. We also focus on the underlying mechanisms of sand production and screen failure, not just on empirical correlations.
The Premier Subscription is ideal for operators and major service companies who want to actively influence research directions. The Executive Subscription works well for companies interested in regular updates without the deeper involvement. The Custom Subscription is designed for service providers who want flexibility in their engagement.
Yes, we regularly work under non-disclosure agreements to test proprietary designs. Our facility can accommodate various screen geometries and configurations, and all testing data can be kept confidential according to your requirements.
A standard comparative testing program typically takes 1-2 weeks, including setup, testing, and analysis. More complex evaluations involving multiple screen types or extensive numerical modeling may take longer.
Get in touch to learn more about our services or discuss collaboration opportunities
📍 Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
👨💼 For administrative inquiries: avceiroffice@utb.edu.bn