Halliburton has introduced an autonomous inflow control device (AICD), named EquiFlow Density, to effectively manage unwanted fluids production and enhance recovery of oil and gas resources.

The new device is designed to address reservoir fluid uncertainties. It also helps to enhance recovery of hydrocarbon in wells where current autonomous solutions are limited.

Utilising a density amplifier, the EquiFlow Density device can distinguish between reservoir fluids. The device is totally orientation neutral and has a fluid selector that expands density forces by creating artificial gravity.  

Without surface input, the fluid selector automatically opens or closes to restrict water flow. Water ingress, which is generally managed at the surface, is significantly reduced by the instrument.

Halliburton Completion Tools vice-president David Loveless said: “Most autonomous ICDs rely on reservoir fluid viscosity contrast to differentiate the fluids being produced, but oil and water frequently appear at similar viscosities.

“EquiFlow Density AICD differentiates itself by producing and restricting downhole fluids using density, even when the viscosities are identical. This allows operators to optimise hydrocarbon production in difficult wells where current autonomous technologies are not effectively able to separate the water from the desired oil.”

The new device forms part of Halliburton’s Advanced Completions portfolio, which aims to improve reservoir management and enhance hydrocarbon recovery, while optimising production.

Earlier this year, Halliburton acquired Resoptima, a Norwegian technology company that provides data-driven reservoir management to customers in the oil and gas industry.

These solutions allow operators to harness data for reservoir understanding, driving efficiency in oil extraction, resource management and risk mitigation.