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Philip Cerveny1,
Robert Krantz2,
Richard Fox3,
Graham Dudley4,
Dalton Lockman5,
Dana Coffield6
(1) Petrotechnical Resources of Alaska, Anchorage, AK
(2) Arco Alaska Inc, Anchorage, AK
(3) BP Amoco, Anchorage, AK
(4) BP Amoco UTG, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, United Kingdom
(5) Exxon, Anchorage, AK
(6) Alberta Energy Company International, Calgary, AB
Abstract: Predicting fault-fluid behavior at Prudhoe Bay: using a comprehensive fault properties database
The fault database has been a major factor developing the current understanding of fault behavior at Prudhoe Bay, including calibration of critical structural concepts. It also provides an efficient method for integrating local data with well targeting and planning.
The database is a compilation of drilling and production data, and geological and geophysical data relevant to fault behavior. The database includes lost circulation data, waterflood interaction, gas injection, field wide pressure data, radioactive tracers, fault cuts in wells, and fluid breakthrough data. These data are cross linked to a structurally consistent field wide fault map comprised of 5400 faults that are greater than 2 milliseconds in throw and approximately 200 feet in length. The database was compiled in spreadsheet format and then downloaded to a GIS system, which provided the opportunity to map the drilling and production data in relation to the position of the faults in the field.
The compilation in map form immediately showed that faults are the predominant reason for lost circulation in the Prudhoe Bay field. This approach indicates that certain faults posed problems historically, and highlights specific areas along faults that had the greatest incidences of lost circulation. Our improved ability to predict fault behavior while drilling has been a powerful tool in our approach to crossing faults with the well bore. Other distinct patterns, especially for sealing faults, have major implications for reservoir development. The database approach, which has become a routine tool for Prudhoe Bay operations, can be applied to any field worldwide.
AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90914©2000 AAPG Annual Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana