WesternGeco performs Q-Marine 4D baseline survey for Statoil
Posted: 13 August 2003
Seeking to maximise production from its Smoerbukk South field in
the Mid Norway section of the North Sea, Statoil contracted WesternGeco
to perform a Q-Marine 4D seismic survey.
It was previously considered that the low porosity and depth of
the reservoir would make the field unsuitable for 4D mapping.
However, petrophysical and geophysical modeling indicated that,
although fluid changes were probably not detectable at this depth,
pressure changes resulting from oil production might be visible,
and so identify which segments of the faulted reservoir are being
successfully drained.
“We chose the WesternGeco Q-Technology because of its unique
4D repeatability," said Lars Klefstad, Statoil geophysical
advisor of the Aasgard development. “The 4D effects of pressure
changes are normally much more subtle than those associated with
fluid replacement; therefore, it is essential to maximize repeatability
if 4D at Smoerbukk is to be a success.
The very controlled 4D survey now being acquired will be analyzed
for 4D-effects from nearly four years' production from the field.
If that is successful, the survey acquired this summer will become
the baseline for future 4D work."
Klefstad said that the survey is being acquired with very strict
limits on streamer feathering and source positioning. "The
area is known for its strong ocean currents, and Q-Marine with its
active steering is the only system that can control the effect of
these currents,” he said. “The Calibrated Marine Source
has demonstrated a very stable output, a second important contributor
to 4D repeatability also not possible with conventional marine sources.”
WesternGeco, a joint venture between Schlumberger and Baker Hughes,
is a leader in integrated exploration and reservoir imaging services,
providing worldwide seismic acquisition, processing, and multiclient
surveys.
For more information see http://www.slb.com/.
Posted by Richard Price,
Editor Pipeline Magazine
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