3D Analysis for Wellbore Stability: Reducing Drilling Risks in Oriente Basin, Ecuador

Abstract

TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractThis work describes a 3D approach that was used to reduce drilling risks and unscheduled events in Palo Azul field. The field is in the Oriente foreland basin (Figure 1), contiguous to the Ecuadorian Andean foothills. A portion of the field presented an unexpected igneous intrusion (laccolite) just above the reservoir formation. The 3D analysis combined 3D seismic information with the 3D structural and geological model to generate a 3D geomechanical model. The mechanical earth model (MEM), relied on onsite real-time monitoring, was used to support drilling decisions, providing predictions of well trajectory, casing points, and mud window.The 3D velocity/amplitude cube, derived from one portion of the 3D seismic program, was used as the base to construct the MEM. To capture the uncommon structural characteristics associated with the complex geological structure, an innovative methodology was developed. Steps included special reprocessing of sequences of the seismic data; structural model reinterpretation; 3D seismic velocity analysis; population of the rock properties in the 3D domain (Geostatistical approach); integration with wireline logs; core measurements analysis; and drilling history review of the offset wells. The real-time geomechanics support allowed making important decisions in time when unplanned events occurred while drilling.This new methodology created a systematic approach to well planning that reduces drilling risks in the development of a complex area. The value added by the integrated team's efforts was demonstrated by drilling the next two wells with significant reductions in costs and nonproductive time. A sensitivity analysis of different well trajectories across fractured zones was performed. Wellbore stability forecasts were compared with reference to the 3D model developed. The results obtained contribute to a better understanding of the mechanics of stress development around a magmatic intrusion and a faulted/folded zone. The methodology developed allows better insight into the parameters that must be included in the 3D MEM creation and wellbore stability forecast for similar environments. This method also serves as a good basis for further development, such as sanding studies, completion design optimization, reservoir studies, and uncertainty analysis. * EarthGM™ is a WesternGeco software; DrillMAP TM Schlumberger product