Reservoir engineers build reservoir simulation models from geological models, well logs, seismic data, oil and gas production data, and with a good dose of intuition. They must iterate the model building process to generate models that best match the production history. Often, they will generate a collection of models, each matching the production history. A thorough comprehension of the production data and its integration with other data streams helps reservoir engineers develop more accurate and useful reservoir simulation models. The better that the models match actual conditions, the better the predictions of future production. The reservoir simulation model, in conjunction with other available data and models, provides the backbone for effective field development.
Data Integration
Proper data integration grows more crucial as oil fields mature because operators must understand changing field conditions. Managers know more than anyone that they must maximize hydrocarbon production while reducing drilling costs, but it’s a difficult task when massive amounts of data are involved. With so many data variables at play, the management and surveillance process can be a cumbersome endeavor that can spawn errors, if analysts are not careful. Inaccurate reservoir depictions can result in costly mistakes that reduce production goals or stall operations.
To make sense of the data, analysts often use inadequate means to analyze it. Analysts may be aware of such familiar techniques as static images or slideshow presentations. But mature fields tend to produce massive data volumes that are nearly impossible to coalesce manually, and many software packages cannot integrate all relevant data into a cohesive viewing system.
With that, data visualization and analysis software can merge many data types seamlessly, with no need to utilize manual efforts like PowerPoint presentations. It provides new ways for users to visualize and analyze traditional data to obtain clearer renderings of field profiles. Using enhanced renderings and temporal animations, it offers a complete view of young or mature fields and associated data such as:
- time-lapse seismic volumes and attributes
- well data
- geologic models
- cumulative and instantaneous production data
- reservoir simulations in 4D
- drilling hazards and roadblocks
The additional clarity that data visualization provides can offer vital insight into certain datasets, such as the insight given from time-lapse seismic data. Further, 4D signals can be used to pinpoint various factors that affect fluid fluctuations. Then, they can compare the data with oil production data and the amount of injected water.
This multidisciplinary function also assists teams that comprise individuals from other departments. All parties can understand the data, regardless of discipline, and the software nurtures a collaborative environment that solves some of the industry’s toughest field challenges. This integration enhances workflows and reduces manual hours devoted to analysis—highlighting the most pertinent pieces of information to foster better decision-making.
Target Selection and Well Planning
Efficient workflows are necessary for effective target selection and well planning. The geologist can select the best targets for drilling within a comprehensive analysis and visualization environment.
With CoViz 4D, users have the following options at their disposal:
- volumetric calculations
- time-step arithmetic operations
- back-interpolations of attributes between spatial and temporal data that overlaps
- well-planning modules
- cross-plotting of various datasets
The well-planning modules are particularly noteworthy because the software allows users to create their own well paths instead of sending targeted locales to well planners. Users can adjust and update well designs and completions to further optimize extraction strategies.
Data from many different disciplines are needed for effective field development. Geological models define the oil traps. Reservoir simulation models show the complex movement of oil, water, and gas. Seismic grids validate or refute assumptions made in other models.
To cross-correlate these data streams effectively, users need the ability to simplify the data-gathering process and allow different data types to be viewed as one. From there, analysts can understand the information presented to them—nudging them in a solid direction that enhances hydrocarbon campaigns.
Oil and Gas Production Data with CoViz 4D
CoViz 4D integrates production data with other datasets—providing much-needed clarification on reservoir layouts. It also breaks down complex numerical forms that can seem confusing, especially to team members from other disciplines. CoViz 4D fosters the seamless integration of various data types across a wide spectrum of disciplines—assimilating team members into a cohesive unit.
CoViz 4D fosters the seamless integration of various data types across a wide spectrum of disciplines—assimilating team members into a cohesive unit.
When it comes to analysis, oil and gas production data are incomplete without relevant data from all of the contributing disciplines. This is especially true when dealing with older fields that come with a wide array of data that can seem indiscernible. Overall, CoViz 4D helps operators make the best decisions with impeccable timing, which is a crucial factor that can make or break operational campaigns.
Image courtesy of bioraven
