Sequence Stratigraphy--Use in Reservoir Management

Marianne T. Weaver, Kim Miskell-Gerhardt, Rick L. Garnett

To better understand the impact of the application of sequence stratigraphy concepts on field development and depletion, Exxon initiated a project to examine the use of this technology in the reservoir management of the Corporation's fields. Analysis of Exxon's experience consisted of evaluating the application of this technology in fifty-eight fields, documenting individual case studies and conducting a cost/benefit analysis for two production affiliates. The results of this analysis demonstrate that there are quantifiable benefits and reservoir management improvements resulting from the proper utilization of sequence stratigraphy during all stages of field development including appraisal, initial, mature and final depletion/EOR development stages. The documented benefit include reserve additions at competitive finding costs, depletion cost savings, equity improvements and development of improved reservoir surveillance tools. These benefits can be very large when the sequence-stratigraphic studies are fully integrated with additional field data and interpretations, and the fields selected for study meet the appropriate criteria. In new fields, significant investments are saved by optimizing the number and placement of development wells and associated facility infrastructure. In older fields, with large remaining reserves in place, the application of this technology can significantly increase primary, secondary and tertiary recovery. When correctly applied at the appropriate stage of field development, fully integrated, sequence-stratigraphy field studie will result in obtaining maximum ultimate hydrocarbon recovery at the lowest full-life cost.

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