The Revelation of Minor Reservoir Opportunity: Realizing Low Resistivity Contrast Reservoir Play Type in Baram Delta Basin East Malaysia, Thru REM Log Enhancement and Comprehensive Water Salinity Analysis

Abstract

Low Resistivity low contrast (LRLC) reservoirs were normally disregarded due to high water saturation and classified as tight sand. LRLC reservoir defined as Pay that has low resistivity contrast between sand and adjacent shale due to presence of conductive mineral or fresh water. Hence, this paper will transform the standpoint by demonstrating values and potential reserve addition underneath LRLC reservoir which proves that it could contribute equally as the conventional reservoir and realizing potential reserve growth. HY field located in Baram Delta Basin East Malaysia has been producing for more than 40 years and classified as lower coastal plain to coastal environment. The reservoir is loosely consolidated, fine to very fine sandstone and interbedded with shale. Z reservoir (Low Resistivity contrast reservoir) initially identified as gas-bearing reservoir with fresh water salinity of 2k-4kppm. Plus, difference in resistivity values between sand and adjacent shale only separated by ~3ohmm .Due to these claims, there is no Oil interpreted below the gas level and been neglected for years. A robust water salinity investigation supported with the geological point of view and water sample taken at the wellhead, Project Team proposed the water salinity should be 10k-15k ppm which is more saline than previously assumed. Revision in water salinity value has led to pinpoint Z reservoir as Oil bearing reservoir and recover estimated ~200 ft Pay of Oil column in Z reservoir. An appraisal well was drilled for data gathering and exploring potential in the deeper sections, hence serve as a platform for further petrophysical evaluation in the Z reservoir. As a result, Project team managed to take Oil sample and Oil gradient for Z reservoir. In addition, PVT lab result showed the oil sample taken having similar fluid property as the produced oil in the major reservoir. Based from the existing static model, potential additional of recoverable reserves was calculated around 20 MMstb for the Z reservoir. This has been an eye opener for the team to give an extra attention and emphasis on the true potential beneath the LRLC reservoir.