Multilateral wells improve development in heavy-oil field

Multilateral systems provide production from two or more wellbores, and intelligent-well systems provide control over production. Combining these technologies could improve reservoir drainage and production efficiency of future wells. Technology-advancement-multilateral (TAML) Level-3 junction systems, along with intelligent-well systems to control zone selection, were installed in three horizontal dual-lateral production wells in the Mukhaizna heavy-oil field. The junction allows installation of 7-in. liners in both legs and selective access to each leg while providing suitable barriers to sand production.