N519 Introduction to Seismic Interpretation and Reservoir Characterization
Course Facts
- Course Code:
- N519
- Duration:
- 3 days
- Type:
- Classroom
- Certificate:
- Certificate Issued Upon Completion
Summary
After reviewing the fundamentals of seismic wave propagation, data acquisition, and image processing, participants will learn seismic interpretation workflows that will enable them to quickly and efficiently evaluate the resource potential of large 2D and 3D data sets. Specialized workflows covering AVO analysis, time/depth conversion, and estimation of reserve potential are also included. Participants will acquire the skills necessary to perform property evaluations in data rooms as well as the advanced skills necessary for reservoir characterization. Course materials include case studies of both conventional and unconventional reservoirs.
Duration and Training Method
This is a three-day classroom which will include a mix of lectures (65%) and hands-on exercises (35%). The class is also available via five interactive online sessions ( four hours each). Printed exercise materials can be mailed to participants, and several mapping exercises may be completed by participants off-line.
Participants will learn how to:
- Explain the fundamentals of seismic wave propagation and factors affecting resolution at the reservoir level.
- Calibrate seismic data using well data.
- Communicate effectively with data acquisition and processing specialists.
- Execute an effective interpretation workflow for a 2D seismic project.
- Apply interpretation fundamentals to design a 3D workflow on a workstation.
- Utilize multiple offset volumes to perform reconnaissance AVO analysis.
- Apply basic seismic sequence stratigraphic interpretation principles.
- Perform time-to-depth conversions using simplified velocity models.
- Utilize common seismic attributes to characterize reservoirs.
- Generate volumetric estimates of recoverable reserves (EUR).
Workflow training begins with the calibration of seismic data, the establishment of correlation loops, and structural contouring. More advanced workflows including depth conversion and the practical application of AVO using multiple offset volumes will be demonstrated. Direct hydrocarbon indicators and basic principles of seismic sequence stratigraphy will also be discussed during the course of the lectures and exercise sessions.
Day 1
- What is seismic data? What can it do? What are its limitations?
- Introduction to seismic wave propagation and elastic behavior of rocks.
- How is seismic data recorded?
- What is required to generate useful subsurface images?
- What can go wrong?
- The interpreter’s role in working with acquisition and processing specialists
- Seismic Well Tie Exercise: Using synthetic seismograms or VSPs
Day 2
- A practical 2D seismic interpretation workflow
- Understanding the geology of a project
- Identifying critical geologic risk factors
- Interpretation Exercise: Constructing an interpretation baseline for a project
- Interpretation Exercise: Tying interpretation loops for multiple horizons
- Interpretation Exercise: Constructing a lineament map to guide the interpretation
- Interpretation Exercise: Generating a structure map
- Interpretation Exercise: Construction and use of isochron maps
- Interpretation Exercise: Using 3D time slices to validate an interpretation
- A simplified approach to time/depth conversion
Day 3
- A 3D interpretation case history
- Interpretation Exercise: Using time slices to validate an interpretation.
- Using stratal slices to characterize a reservoir
- Useful seismic geometric attributes
- Reservoir Characterization: What rock parameters can seismic “see”?
- Interpretation Exercise: Use of direct H/C indicators to estimate reservoir size
- Seismic inversion tools
- Seismic inputs to geocellular modeling
- AVO Interpretation workflows using multiple offset volumes
- Unconventional Reservoirs
- Tomographic velocity models and reservoir stress
- Fracture characterization tools
- Benefits and limitations of using fiber optics sensors
- Can seismic data image stimulate rock volume?
- Wrap-up discussion
Who should attend
The course has been designed for early career geoscientists and technical support staff who work with seismic data. This class would also enable engineers and managers to interact effectively with geoscience teams, and to establish realistic expectations regarding decisions to invest in seismic data.
Prerequisites and linking courses
A general geological background and some familiarity with oil and gas industry terms and practices are assumed. N519 also provides the foundation necessary for other geophysics courses such as:
N004 (The Essentials of Rock Physics for Seismic Amplitude Interpretation)N485 (Advanced Seismic Interpretation)
N049 (Seismic Attributes for Exploration and Reservoir Characterization)
Click on a name to learn more about the instructor
John Randolph
John Randolph
Background
John has over 40 years experience in the Oil and Gas Industry and is currently Technical Manager for Nautilus geophysical programs in North America. During his career, John worked as a seismic interpreter for Texaco, a geophysical project manager for The Louisiana Land and Exploration Company, and he served in the role of Chief Geophysicist for Burlington Resources. John retired from Burlington Resources in 2005 as General Manager of Exploration responsible for the company’s exploration activities in the US, Latin America, the UK, Algeria, and China. While working as Chief Geophysicist, John was also responsible for training and career development for Burlington’s geoscience professionals. Since 2005, John has also worked as a consultant to independent oil and gas companies and also national oil companies assisting them with various project management issues.
In addition to his passion for teaching seismic interpretation, John enjoys travel, biking, and hiking. John also taught scuba diving classes for many years.
John and his wife Cheri live in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Affiliations and Accreditation
MS Business Administration
BS Physics and Mathematics
SEG -Member
AAPG - Member
Courses Taught
N080: Geophysics for Subsurface Professionals
N085: Introduction to Seismic Interpretation
N165: Fundamental Concepts of Seismic Techniques
N250: Evaluation Methods for Shale Reservoirs
N281: Introduction to Seismic Interpretation for Exploration and Production
N394: 3D Seismic Interpretation Workflow
N408: Seismic Imaging for Coal
N420: Introduction to Seismic Interpretation for Coal Mining
N443: Essentials of Geophysics
John is a contributer to the following courses:
N092: Reservoir Geophysics
N286: Seismic Acquisition Principles and Practice
Dates for this Course
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