Conceptual Plan for Redevelopment of Marginal Fields in the South China Sea

Client requested an interpretation of a Formation Micro Scanner (FMS) resistivity image, as part of a conceptual plan to develop an existing marginal field, in conjunction with surrounding production facilities. High-resolution resistivity and sonic image logs have the potential to characterise the reservoir facies in carbonate systems and help delineate the porosity systems at work (primary or secondary porosity networks) and fault and fracture orientations. The problem associated with this FMS interpretation is that the client did not provide the digital FMI image log data, only digital pdf images.

ERCE has the inhouse capacity to work with and manipulate ‘older’ hard copy and digital data from existing databases, including orienting pdf resistivity images. Interpretation of the FMS provided subdivision of the carbonate reef system into discrete reservoir facies, differentiated the natural fracture network (open and closed) from the drilling-induced fracture subset, and enabled interpretation of the secondary porosity system (vugs and channels) throughout the reservoir. The integration of the FMS image log data provided input into the resource assessment. ERCE subsequently formulated an appraisal and conceptual development strategy. ERCE also analysed the economics of different development scenarios.

ERCE has extensive experience in technical studies covering a wide range of disciplines and geologies. In this example ERCE presented an integrated FMS interpretation, with wellbore petrophysical analyses and seismic interpretations. We draw upon our local and regional understanding of Southeast Asia to add value to our Reserves & Resource auditing in carbonate reef systems including platform carbonates, isolated pinnacle reef systems and remobilized carbonate turbidite deposits. Our expertise across the entire value chain provides a one-stop shop from subsurface to economics.