Abstract
A three-dimensional (3D) corner-point grid model gives a relatively accurate description of the structural properties and spatial distribution of oil and gas reservoirs than Cartesian grids. The finite element simulation of the stress field provides a relatively probable presentation of the in situ stress distribution. Both methods are of great importance to the exploration and development of oil and gas fields. Implementing the finite element simulation of in situ stress on a 3D corner-point grid model not only retains the structural attributes of a reservoir but also allows the accurate simulation of the 3D stress distribution. In this paper, we present a method for implementing the finite element simulation of in situ stress based on a 3D corner-point grid model. We first established a fine 3D reservoir model with corner-point grids and then converted the grids into corresponding 3D finite element grid models using a grid conversion algorithm. Next, we simulated the in situ stress distribution with the finite element method. The stress model is then resampled to corresponding corner-point grid geological models using the reverse algorithm. The grid conversion algorithm is to provide data support for the subsequent numerical simulation and other research efforts, thereby guaranteeing procedure continuity and data consistency. Finally, we simulated the stress distribution of a real oil field, the X region. Comparing the simulated result with the measured result, the high agreement validated the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method.
Highlights
Grid Data StructureE corner-point grid and finite element grid are grid models based on the grid generation algorithm
A three-dimensional (3D) corner-point grid model gives a relatively accurate description of the structural properties and spatial distribution of oil and gas reservoirs than Cartesian grids. e finite element simulation of the stress field provides a relatively probable presentation of the in situ stress distribution
Most studies so far have relied on the finite element method (FEM) to simulate 3D stress distributions with finite element grids because of extensive applicability and practical significance of FEM in solving continues media and field problems [19]
Summary
E corner-point grid and finite element grid are grid models based on the grid generation algorithm. E morphology of its cell blocks are described by four coordinate lines (defined by the top and bottom regular topologic control planes) and the coordinates of eight grid nodes (corner points), as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b). A finite element grid is a structural unit formed through a grid subdivision algorithm during the application of FEM. It can be a structured grid or a nonstructured one. A finite element grid is connected by nodes It is distinguished from a corner-point grid in the way it deals with the nodes between adjacent cells. Despite the identical position information, they belong to different grid cells
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
