Abstract: A wellbore completion includes a plurality of longitudinal gravel pack sections disposed within a well, the gravel pack sections being capable of imposing a predetermined substantially radial flow restriction upon fluid production flowing radially through the gravel pack section. At least one of the gravel pack sections creates a radial flow restriction that is different from the radial flow restriction of at least one other gravel pack section. The gravel pack sections may comprise graded gravel material having an effective permeability within a predetermined range when placed in the well.

Abstract: This invention provides improved apparatus and methods for completing a subterranean zone penetrated by a wellbore. One embodiment of the present invention is a wellbore completion comprising a plurality of longitudinal gravel pack sections disposed within a well, the gravel pack sections are capable of imposing a predetermined substantially radial flow restriction upon fluid production flowing radially through the gravel pack section. At least one of the gravel pack sections creating a radial flow restriction that is different from the radial flow restriction of at least one other gravel pack section. The gravel pack sections can comprise graded gravel material having an effective permeability within a predetermined range when placed in the well.