Reservoir Analysis Using Integrated Downhole Fluid and Mud Gas Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing subsurface reservoirs lack effective tools to accurately detect compartmentalization and non-equilibrium hydrocarbon distribution, which can hinder production and lead to economically non-viable fields.
Innovation Solution
Integration of downhole fluid analysis (DFA) and mud gas logging (MGL) techniques, involving the use of downhole tools to obtain fluid samples and analyze drilling mud gases, to identify variations in fluid properties and detect compartmentalization and non-equilibrium conditions within the reservoir.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If downhole fluid analysis and mud gas logging are integrated to accurately detect compartmentalization and non-equilibrium hydrocarbon distribution, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines downhole fluid analysis (DFA) and mud gas logging (MGL) into an integrated system that simultaneously performs both functions. The DFA component analyzes reservoir fluid samples for composition and properties, while the MGL component analyzes gases extracted from drilling mud. By merging these two separate analysis systems into one integrated platform with unified data processing and comparison capabilities, the patent achieves accurate detection of compartmentalization and non-equilibrium conditions while managing system complexity through integrated architecture.
2Measurement precision
If multiple fluid samples are obtained at different measurement stations to detect reservoir variations, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by obtaining multiple reservoir fluid samples at different measurement stations during the drilling operation itself, rather than after drilling is complete. The downhole tool is positioned at various depths and locations within the wellbore to collect samples in-situ, and gases are continuously monitored from drilling mud as it returns to surface. This preliminary sampling during drilling allows for real-time or near-real-time reservoir characterization, significantly reducing the time delay between sampling and analysis compared to traditional post-drilling laboratory methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by continuously analyzing gases from drilling mud throughout the drilling operation. As drilling mud circulates through the wellbore and returns to surface, gases are continuously extracted and analyzed by the MGL system. This continuous monitoring provides ongoing information about reservoir conditions at different depths and locations, eliminating gaps in data collection and enabling timely detection of compartmentalization and non-equilibrium conditions without interrupting the drilling process.
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations directed to analyzing a reservoir using fluid analysis are provided. In one implementation, a method may include determining mud gas logging (MGL) data based on drilling mud associated with a wellbore traversing a reservoir of interest. The method may also include determining first downhole fluid analysis (DFA) data based on a first reservoir fluid sample obtained at a first measurement station in the wellbore. The method may further include determining predicted DFA data for the wellbore based on the first DFA data. The method may additionally include determining second DFA data based on a second reservoir fluid sample obtained at a second measurement station in the wellbore. The method may further include analyzing the reservoir based on a comparison of the MGL data and a comparison of the second DFA data to the predicted DFA data.