A 3D VSP Recorded in Abu Dhabi Yields New Understanding of a Complex Reservoir

Abstract

A two well 3D VSP pilot project recorded in 2007 by the Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO) was successful at demonstrating the value that can be gained from a high quality 3D VSP image. This second part focuses on interpretation and value addition. It is understood that for recovery to be optimized and by-passed resources to be minimized especially in later stages of field production more accurate models of a reservoir’s architecture and characteristics are needed. The results of this first 3D VSP survey was successful in characterizing details of the reservoir that could not be derived from the surface seismic or well log data alone. The higher quality images made it possible to map detailed stratigraphy and previously unknown important faults. The improved structural map and updated geologic model generated with information from the 3D VSP images were verified by wells drilled inside the 3D VSP image areas. Based on the successful results from this pilot project the 3D VSP technology is now considered a tool for projects that require detailed reservoir characterization in an area around a well within a diameter equal to the image depth, in this case 3,000 m.