Anadarko Basin survey shows value of multicomponent acquisition

Abstract

In this case study of a survey in the Anadarko Basin, Oklahoma, Steve Roche, Mark Wagaman, and Howard Watt of Veritas DGC in Houston show that using both P-wave and converted shear wave data provides better gas production estimates. Interpretation of multicomponent data holds great promise for the exploration and development of oil and gas. Shear-wave propagation is sensitive only to rigidity and density, while compressional-wave propagation is sensitive to rigidity, density and compressibility. Interpreting both P- and S-wave reflectivity offers the ability to discriminate lithology, porosity, fractures and possibly fluid content. Recent advances in seismic recording systems, sensor technology and data processing methods are such that the use of multicomponent data for exploration and development is now an economic reality. Specific case studies such as the Anadarko Basin data show the viability of recording converted-wave data. As the industry moves towards 3C recording there also needs to be assurance that P-wave data quality will not be compromised. These data demonstrate that 3C single-sensor P-wave data quality will meet, and possibly exceed, data recorded using conventional P-wave only surveys, if proper attention is given to the signal-to-noise characteristics in the survey area. This may require higher station density and/or a finer group interval in many cases. This paper has three parts, a description of the North Emerald 3C3D test and resulting P-wave (PP) and converted-wave (PS) data quality, relating the P-wave and converted-wave reflectivity to natural gas production from the Springer Formation, and comparing single sensor MEMS recording to six element geophone array data.