Importance of Conceptual Geological Models in 3D Reservoir Modelling

Abstract

This paper briefly describes a methodology which covers different components of Conceptual Geologic model building and its importance in terms of improved understanding of reservoir depositional environments (from basin to reservoir scale), geometry, connectivity and diagenetic history. The importance of integrating the 3D conceptual geologic model with the 3D reservoir models (static and dynamic) has been demonstrated through an example of silici-clastic reservoirs. This example has limited geoscientifc and engineering data with high subsurface uncertainties. The study shows that different possible geologic scenarios incorporated in digital representation of 3D reservoir models lead to significantly different Hydrocarbon-In-Place, recoverable resources and production forecasts. Several benefits derived from this integration such as better 3D reservoir characterization, quantifying the impact of key reservoir uncertainties on fluid-flow characteristics and associated risks, providing essential information to the management in terms of more reliable production forecasts for informed decision makings are highlighted.