Deliquification techniques for conventional and unconventional gas wells: Review, field cases and lessons learned for mitigation of liquid loading

The current study offers a practical guide for dealing with water influx and liquid loading problems particular to gas wells. Methods and discussions on remedying these problems are supported by real field cases (eight gas wells from Thrace Basin, Turkey) and are extended to wells targeting unconventional resources (coalbed methane, methane hydrates, shale gas). Indications of liquid loading are discussed, critical gas velocity concept is reviewed and deliquification techniques are presented with advantages, drawbacks, limitations, and optimum application conditions. Specific production strategy suggestions are provided and an improved decision tree is suggested for screening the deliquification methods. •Practical determination of liquid loading problems with field cases are presented.•Mechanisms of liquid loading are reviewed.•Gas well deliquification techniques are reviewed.•Sources of water in gas wells are discussed and production strategies are suggested.•A new detailed methodology and an improved decision tree are provided.