PVT measurements derive from a series of processes/experiments to establish phase behavior and physical properties/parameters of the reservoir fluid. The experiments through which these parameters are determined in the laboratory assume that a valid fluid sample is available for the tests, either through i) obtaining a single phase sample in the field, or ii) through careful recombination of separator gas and liquid in the laboratory. Validation of field samples and recombination are integral parts of PVT measurements. The majority of PVT measurements are derived from a relatively straightforward suite of experiments depending upon fluid type. All PVT measurements are carried out by measuring in a PVT cell the total fluid volume and compressibility over a wide range of pressures extending beyond initial reservoir pressure to pressures below the anticipated separator pressures. Depending on fluid type, the following are the common PVT experiment.
- Constant Volume Expansion (CCE)
- Differential Liberation
- Constant Volume Depletion (CVD)
- Separator tests
- Measurement of physical properties
