Advanced 4D Geomechanical Analysis in Hydrocarbon Drilling Operations

Abstract The application of 4D geomechanics is paramount in addressing challenges faced in hydrocarbon field operations, ranging from exploration to development phases. Its relevance is further accentuated during well-planning in challenging, depleted terrains. This technical discourse elucidates the integration of 4D geomechanical modeling into the strategic planning of well drilling. Leveraging 4D geomechanics facilitates a deeper understanding of subsurface dynamics, allowing for adept well-planning in intricate geological settings. A pivotal component of 4D geomechanics involves utilizing seismic inversion volumes to delineate geological facies and structure schematics. The primary focus is the robust analysis of wellbore stability to preemptively determine the optimal mud weight window and refine drilling protocols, thereby curtailing drilling-associated risks. This aligns with the overarching objective of ensuring a conducive borehole environment that aligns seamlessly with completion and stimulation prerequisites, optimizing hydrocarbon yield. Synergetic interactions and a harmonized approach encompassing domains like Drilling, Geology, Geo-steering, Production Engineering, and Reservoir Management underpin the success of the well. It's imperative to ascertain stress shifts across the production lifecycle to preempt and mitigate potential drilling challenges. Recognizing the heterogeneity in rock attributes, tailored 4D geomechanical models have been established. Furthermore, a dynamic reservoir simulation model addresses reservoir pressure diminution over production tenure. Utilizing datasets from proximate wells, benchmarked 1D geomechanical models were synthesized, and subsequent 3D models were architected through interpolation. Coupling of this static representation with a dynamic simulation spanned multiple years. Detailed geological schematics steered structural deciphering. Additionally, the geomechanical model accurately predicted anomalies like reservoir compaction, subsidence, and sand ingress. Pre-drilling metrics advised optimal mud weight and drilling parameters, bolstering wellbore stability. Post-drilling assessments, supplemented by Image logs, evinced prominent stress vectors and pronounced induced fractures, with interventions using bridging materials fortifying the geological matrix. This treatise accentuates the potency of 4D geomechanical modeling in scrutinizing wellbore stability, considering variables such as intrinsic stresses, pore pressures, rock resilience, drilling fluid dynamics, and directional drilling imperatives. The precision of geomechanical evaluations has witnessed significant enhancement via the integration of dynamic and static reservoir models. An in-depth exploration of reservoir dynamics augments this reservoir intelligence with the further amalgamation of reservoir models.