Integration of Geomechanical Parameters and Numerical Simulation for an Offshore Reservoir in the Gulf of Mexico
Date
2014-09-30
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Abstract
The primary objective of this thesis is the evaluation of geomechanical behavior of two offshore soft sandstone gas reservoirs located in the Gulf of Mexico with a view to quantifying the geomechanical risk associated with subsidence and compaction.
To meet this objective a 3D Mechanical Earth Model (3D MEM) was built that included: (1) a reservoir model capable of handling equations governing multiphase flow in porous media and heat transfer, (2) a geomechanical model that handles equations governing the relationship between principal stresses, pore pressure, temperature and porosity. Fluid flow models have been used in the petroleum industry for several decades. On the other hand geomechanical models are generally considered as newcomers.
Original contributions for the study area include:
(1) Development of correlations between static and dynamic Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio.
(2) Development of correlations that relate the internal friction angle and unconfined compressive strength to Young’s modulus and porosity.
(3) Quantification of subsidence and compaction.
Basic data for development of items (1) and (2) were provided by sonic-wave velocities and mechanical laboratory experiments conducted in soft sandstone cores collected in the reservoirs under consideration.
Item (3) was developed using the 3D MEM. Distribution of rock mechanical properties in the 3D MEM was developed applying geostatistical data analysis and Sequential Gaussian Simulation (SGS) methods. The simulation process was used to produce equally probable maps of mechanical properties.
Computed results using the 3D MEM indicate that average subsidence will be -0.74 m and average compaction of the upper reservoir -1.37 m under the anticipated production schedule. This collapse could induce catastrophic damage of subsea production facilities if not taken into account. Understanding of these displacement processes as presented in this thesis should help to develop mitigation strategies in order to minimize down to a minimum any risks associated with well integrity and deep water facilities.
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Engineering--Petroleum
Citation
Manzano Angeles, D. (2014). Integration of Geomechanical Parameters and Numerical Simulation for an Offshore Reservoir in the Gulf of Mexico (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/26583