Reservoir Geomechanical Analyses

Comprehensive planning for production-induced stress dynamics

Reservoir compaction, subsidence and sand production are the source of many production problems.

In depleting reservoirs, compaction, subsidence and sand production can cause wellbore and equipment failure. In extreme cases, they can affect the integrity of the surface facility. Expensive reservoir stability problems can be understood, minimized or prevented to ensure long, high-rate production.

Our Reservoir Geomechanical Services provide advanced planning that anticipates the dynamic wellbore stresses caused by production. This information allows proper selection of perforation, production rate and equipment to ensure production objectives are met.

Reservoir stability problems occur in the presence of many common reservoir conditions, including:

Relatively thick pay zones
High seismic activity
Soft formation materials or uncemented sand reservoirs
Substantial declines in producing pressure

By applying Knowledge System’s powerful geomechanical analysis and modeling capabilities, we help you:

Quickly screen projects for general compaction and subsidence risks
Optimize well orientation to minimize geomechanical-related strains on the wellbore
Select the right remediation equipment to reduce sand production
Identify the preferred casing and cementing practices in unstable environments

Assessing Compaction and Subsidence Risk

In the subsurface, overburden is supported by both the rock matrix and the fluid pressure within the rock’s pore spaces. Production removes the fluid, causing a drop in pressure that requires the rock matrix to bear more of the load. In some formations this induces compaction of the reservoir.

To better understand the risk, we model how stress evolves in a depleting reservoir. This geomechanical modeling of compaction dynamics helps identify the likelihood and severity of bedding plane slippage and overburden shear, which deform the wellbore and are the main sources of compaction-related wellbore damage.

Sanding Prediction

Sand production is another type of geomechanical problem that frequently occurs during production. As the wellbore pressure drops to draw out hydrocarbons, the near wellbore stresses change and can destabilize the reservoir. The sand can plug and erode surface and downhole equipment causing lost production, equipment damage or even a complete loss of the wellbore.

Production, reservoir, geomechanical and drilling engineers depend on sanding predictions for a wide range of key applications, including:

Production rate design
Perforation orientation
Selection of surface equipment
Sand screen installation

Geopressure and Geomechanical Expertise

We’ve been the leading provider of advanced geopressure and geomechanical solutions in the industry for almost 20 years. By focusing exclusively on these services, we provide a uniquely independent source for understanding the wellbore environment.

Majors and independents worldwide rely on Knowledge Systems’ software development, engineering, consulting and training programs to reduce risk and cost, and to improve drilling performance.

Reservoir Geomechanical Analyses