QU college, Maersk in pact for study on sand plugging

A collaborative agreement was signed yesterday between the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Qatar University College of Engineering (QU-CENG) and Maersk Oil Research and Technology Centre (MO-RTC) to study the advanced application of sand plugging to isolate and stimulate specific zones in hydrocarbon wells.The project will use computational simulation and experimental investigation to visualise and test how sand dunes and plugs are formed in an annulus when deploying sand particles through a nozzle in an inner pipe. The learnings can then be applied in the field to support reservoir management.The agreement was signed by QU vice president for Research and Graduate Studies Prof Mariam Ali al-Maadeed and MO-RTC head Abdulrahman al-Emadi in the presence of QU president Dr Hassan Rashid al-Derham and CENG dean Dr Khalifa al-Khalifa, as well as officials from both institutions and CENG faculty and staff.According to the agreement, MO-RTC researchers will work together with both QU students and faculty on the project, which is expected to last one year. Prof al-Maadeed said: “This agreement emphasises Qatar University’s continued determination to find solutions to the challenges facing the society.Through this, we seek to promote the common relationship with Maersk Oil Research and Technology Centre, and expand ways of co-operation between the two sides in the field of scientific research and development.”Al-Emadi said: “ This new research project is another successful example of our co-operation with academia in Qatar to develop innovative technology and applicable solutions to industry challenges and to deliver the greatest possible value to Qatar from its natural resources.” Dr al-Khalifa said: “This agreement will result in observable benefits to Qatar University in particular and Qatar in general, and will contribute to strengthening collaboration between the two parties towards sustainable and long-term solutions.”