Improving Side Seal Predictions: Evaluation of the Controls and Predictability of Side Seals from Well Constrained Gulf of Mexico Fields

In this contribution we evaluate the nature of side seal controls in fields with proven shared and stepped fluid contacts. The stratigraphy and fluids are constrained by well control on both sides of several different faults. Integrating both geometric and property uncertainty into the 3D geomodels of the fields helps define the likely controls on the nature of the side seals.

Multiple realizations of stratigraphy are common place in the aim to assess the likely range in bulk reservoir behaviour. In this example we extend that principle to integrate structural uncertainty. We assess the potential impact of fault throw uncertainty in controlling reservoir juxtapositions and spill points. We also evaluate the impact of fault rock property uncertainties. All these factors are reviewed against the known hydrocarbon contact differences.

The aim of this work is to be able to define rigorous and repeatable workflows that can best capture the likely range in trapping behaviour. These workflows need to be fully integrated into the current reservoir property uncertainty workflows routinely applied so that they can allow for a more complete assessment of the likely range in behaviour of the reservoir.

Developing these workflows on well constrained fields, such as in this example, should help better calibrate our risk evaluation schemes and ultimately help de-risk future exploration cases.
 

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90142 © 2012 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, April 22-25, 2012, Long Beach, California