Integrated 3D Pore Pressure Characterisation and Modeling: Methodology & Application in Sisi Nubi Field, Mahakam - Indonesia

Abstract

Sisi-Nubi (SNB) is a gas field located 25 km offshore from the modern Mahakam delta with overpressure reservoirs being found typically in the Sisi Main Zone (SMZ) interval. SNB 3D seismic data indicates a velocity reversal in the SMZ interval, where the overpressure occurs. This velocity reversal has a relation with location of shelf break (distal area), where beyond shelf break the NTG value is sharply decreased. In the Mahakam area, overpressure gas reservoirs are one of the main issues in terms of drilling hazards. This has been historically managed by integrating surrounding wells' pressure data to predict the pore pressure profile that would be expected in an upcoming well. In new areas or where pressure data is lacking, it is difficult to predict the PP which can result either in heavier than necessary well architectures or an increased risk of taking a kick. An integrated pore pressure study has been carried out on the SNB field in order to provide three dimensional and spatially continuous pore pressure prediction using four different disciplines: sedimentology, reservoir geology, geophysics and geomechanics. The integrated pore pressure model over SNB is contained within a 3D geological model where the Eaton equation can be run using following datasets: sonic well data and sedimentological trend (Well Driven model), upscaled/resampled seismic interval velocity (seismic driven model) and hybrid method as compromise between two data sources involves using the seismic data as a soft trend for the extrapolated well data (hybrid model). Based on the blind well test analysis, the hybrid methodology shows the best result in terms of precision and 3D distribution and allows a continuous prediction of pore pressures even where there is poor well control. However, the others two methodologies could be used as an alternative when the available data is limited. This methodology gives a new approach with more integrated information in 3D pore pressure modeling that improved the classic pore pressure prediction in field Scale and/or basin scale. However, with the remaining uncertainty and discrepancy between the DT well scale velocity and the DT seismic velocity, and considering all detail well events important inputs (Gas evolution including long connection tests, kick, pressure test, HC bouyancy and other drilling events), collaboration with a strong 1D Pore Pressure synthesis will give a comprehensive result.