Reservoir Characterization with Limited Information

SUTTERLIN, PETER G., Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, and GLENN S. VISHER, Geological Service and Ventures, Inc., Tulsa, OK

It is now possible to estimate the external geometry and the internal reservoir heterogeneity of potential producing zones from a single well. Information from logs and samples often is sufficient to make a unique interpretation of the depositional origin of the potential producing zone. Most wells drilled in the Mid-Continent test specific structural or stratigraphic prospects based upon limited subsurface information. Even without core, seismic, and dipmeter information, multivariant analysis of logs and samples is sufficient for comparison to Holocene depositional patterns.

Recognition of the origin of the reservoir interval allows comparison to similar producing reservoirs. Production experience can be used to design both completion and field development programs. Patterns of directional permeability, geometry of flow units, sweep potential, and primary and secondary recovery potential can be estimated. This allows decisions to be made on well spacing, perforation interval, and frac design.

The analysis of all available information can make the difference in completing a successful well and in confirming the play concept. A common failure is that an early effort is not made in synthesizing information to make the correct decisions.

The expert system illustrated provides the framework for data analysis and the nature of information that can be used for determining relative probabilities for specific reservoir characteristics.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91008©1991 AAPG Mid-Continent Section Meeting, Kansas Geological Society, Wichita Kansas, September 22-24, 1991 (2009)