When available, a review of historical data provides invaluable insights into the nature of the in-place reservoir fluid and any aerial or depth variations. These can then be used to technically and economically optimise future sampling and analysis programs.

During a recent offshore project where there was no historical data, open hole samples had been collected and analysed from the formations of interest prior to performing the well tests. The resultant fluid compositions and PVT properties were used in the final design of the well tests and to optimise the subsequent well test sampling and analyses.

Where appropriate, EOR and Asphaltene/Wax Deposition tests can be included.