3-D Integrated Geological Model Construction of Fasken Ranch Area, Midland Basin, Texas

Abstract

Defining rigorous cycle and sequence-scale frameworks at the reservoir scale through the integration of core facies, well log petrophysics, and seismic interpretations remains a challenge in constructing predictive regional 3D geological models. The integrated 3D model described in this study is designed to capture the complex basin fill and shelf margin stacking of the Wolfcampian-Leonardian-Guadalupian succession in the Fasken Ranch area of the Permian basin.

There are three areas of focus: 1) regional stratigraphic and structural framework modeling of the Wolfcampian, Leonardian, and Guadalupian intervals, with the Wolfcamp and Spraberry as targets for unconventional exploration; 2) seismic geomorphology based modeling of ooid grainstone clinoforms in the Queen / Grayburg intervals, currently targeted for ongoing water disposal; and 3) exploration of the influence of geological trends on injection and production behavior.

We generated a high-resolution 3D geocellular model for the Fasken Ranch dataset, containing over 1 billion cells. It encompasses the complex, basin infill stratigraphy and structure by utilizing a combination of seismic, well log, fault, and core interpretations (as well as injection and production data). The study area covers critical shelf-to-basin basin transitions for the complete Permian section and spans the geological boundary between the east side of the Central Basin Platform and the western margin of the Midland Basin. The 3D model is based on 13,000 well logs, 73,000 raster logs, and over 28,000 feet of core data. The 3D seismic volume provided by Fasken Oil and Ranch is located 20-40 km WNW to NW of Midland, and spans an area of approximately 500 square miles, including portions of North Cowden, Midland Farms, and Mabee fields. The resulting geological model allows for more precise description and analysis of the shelf-to-basin depositional patterns, 3D reservoir facies architecture, as well as the injection and production history.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90350 © 2019 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, San Antonio, Texas, May 19-22, 2019