--> ABSTRACT: Target Characterization by Seismic Attribute Analysis - A Case History from West Texas, by Douglas C. Nester, Peter M. Duncan; #91020 (1995).

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Target Characterization by Seismic Attribute Analysis - A Case History from West Texas

Douglas C. Nester, Peter M. Duncan

3D seismic attributes aide being routinely used in conjunction with geostatistics to predict reservoir character that the seismic has been properly collected, processed and interpreted. If this assumption is invalid, then merging such seismic data with even the most detailed geostatistical database, or the most elegant simulation software will produce erroneous results.

This paper presents a case history from the Permian Basin of West Texas which documents three common pitfalls that can occur when attempting to merge 3D seismic with subsurface and production data. These pitfalls are: 1) assuming the seismic correct 2) assuming that the geological model is correct, and 3) assuming a static model for each play.

The identification and correction of these errors within this pinnacle reef play has resulted in raising the success rate from a typical 1 in 10 to seven consecutive discoveries. The ability to pinpoint the area of highest reservoir quality has resulted in wells with the highest flowing tubing pressure in this portion of the Horseshoe Atoll.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91020©1995 AAPG Annual Convention, Houston, Texas, May 5-8, 1995