Relevant Time Update of an Earth Model with Logging While Drilling Data

Abstract

Abstract The drive for greater efficiency combined with the ever-increasing complexity of today's wells requires operators to search for improved methods of working. This has led to the introduction of better tools to facilitate data integration. The high costs of drilling in deep-water operations require that communications between disciplines be optimized. One way of ensuring that the latest information is being used across disciplines is to combine down-hole data with seismic interpretations on a "relevant time" basis. A flexible system has been developed which integrates real-time data capture and management tools with geoscience interpretation and well design software. This paper illustrates gains that are possible in the well construction process through improved utilization of the available data from the wellbore and the rigsite. Two recent case studies are presented from the Deepwater Gulf of Mexico and West of Shetland, UKCS. Logging While Drilling (LWD) data were transmitted from down-hole to onshore, then into a shared earth seismic model on a "relevant time" basis. This data integration allowed the well operations team to make a significant correction to the planned casing point during the drilling of the Gulf of Mexico well by having a detailed correlation of the logging data to the seismic model used to plan the well. It is believed that this technique and related ones will yield further examples of operational efficiency through "relevant time" data integration. This project also illustrates the benefits of close collaboration between an E&P operating company and its vendors.