Three-Dimensional Modeling of Carbonate Reservoir in the Permian Basin

Abstract

Recent advances with drilling and completion technologies have required a good three dimensional reservoir model that depicts the subsurface and better represents its complexities. The value of this model extends beyond its ability to simulate the reservoir performance, but to make drilling, completion and field development decisions. The difficulties in characterizing a carbonate reservoir stress the importance of having a good representative model.

This study is a part of a larger integrated study that aims to optimize drilling and completion techniques for a Permian age carbonate formation in the Permian Basin. The formation consists of tight dolomite beds that vary in porosity and permeability across the field. Water cut varied between wells that are within proximity of each other as fluid saturation presents a challenge to predict considering the impact of structure and stratigraphy on water distribution.

To determine and locate areas of higher rock quality within the reservoirs, a facies model was built that integrated well logs, mineralogy logs, and core and image log data. Those facies described the quality of the rock using petrophysical inputs as well as associated depositional environments. Considering data availability, the model relied on a depositional conceptual model using nearby information that captured low order changes in stratigraphy.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90292 © 2017 AAPG Southwest Section, Midland, Texas, April 29 - May 2, 2017