Geomechanics Approaches to Oil and Gas Production at the Russian Sector of the Barents Region

Anatoly Kalashnik
Mining Institute of the Russian Academy of Science
[email protected]

The operation of oil and gas fields, without taking into account geomechanical processes, can result in destructive or even catastrophic events. Besides losses involving people’s safety and damage to infrastructure, the field may remain underexploited. To address the issue of providing safety, a synergetic approach has been realized. We analyzed the geomechanical processes for the evolution of a nonlinear, nonequilibrium, natural-production system (NPS) for offshore oil-and-gas fields.  We analyzed a graphic model of the NPS evolution based on an algorithm that involves interchanging the stable cycles and bifurcations. We developed a geomechanical model of the offshore gas-condensate Shtokman field. The model takes into account the spatial geometry and fluid-saturation in this tectonically block-faulted field. The model predicted the development of the deformation processes and the geodynamical regime during the field’s production.  It provided geodynamical and geoecological safety criteria as a basis for a production monitoring system under Euro-Arctic conditions. Geomechanical estimates have also been conducted for the existing oil-and-gas transport systems as well as designed and planned systems in the Russian sector of the Barents Sea region.   

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90077©2008 GEO 2008 Middle East Conference and Exhibition, Manama, Bahrain