A Method for Quantifying Reservoir Connectivity Combining Reservoir Simulation and Production Data

Abstract Static methods are commonly used to analyze the reservoir connectivity. However, the results are dubious. In this paper, an integrated method for validating results is proposed by using dynamic data and reservoir simulation. Static methods used to analyze the reservoir connectivity include seismic inversion, well to well correlations, pressure gradient, oil-water contacts, fluid property and so on. However, the study results by static data are dubious. In order to validate and improve the understanding of reservoir connectivity, dynamic data and reservoir simulation was used. First, the reservoir connectivity was investigated with the static methods mentioned above. Second, the static model was built on the basis of the geology integrated study result. Third, by combining both results stated above, a dynamic model was established. Finally, the understanding of reservoir connectivity was reasonably and effectively improved by conducting the production history matching and adjusting the static parameters. During this process, first, an unreasonable understanding on reservoir connectivity was recognized; then, a modified and improved static model was updated for the simulated results better matching production data, where the reservoirs connectivity was also updated. Reservoir connectivity was successfully characterized with the proposed method in application field in Iraq. Results show that (1) reservoir connectivity characterization by static methods only is often not correct for local area in case field, which is validated by the simulated WTHP of some wells much lower than the actual measured data; and (2) an updated reservoir connectivity is more correct and reliable, which can improve the matching between reservoir simulation results and production data. Dynamic data and reservoir simulation is a effective method to study the reservoir connectivity incorporated with static methods. The integrated method should be trend for the reservoir connectivity characterization.