WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Exploration and Operation Geologists, Structure Geologists, Geophysicists, Reservoir Engineers, Supervisors and Managers.

COURSE OVERVIEW

Within structured terrains, faults and folds commonly create or contribute to the formation of hydrocarbon traps. Reservoir performance and recovery factors are often linked to the natural fracture network. Although seismic data are generally used to define the configuration of faults and folds in both exploration and development programs, dipmeter and image log data can be used to refine interpretations near to the wellbores and in areas of poor seismic definition. Image log data, in conjunction with core, provide the only direct assessment of the natural fracture system in the subsurface.

The primary objective of this course is to provide the attendees with the background to optimally utilize core, image log and dipmeter data to evaluate the natural fracture network and to constrain fault and fold interpretations. This includes (1) an understanding of the processes of fracture formation and fracture network evolution, (2) a familiarity with kinematic and geometric models that have been developed for different structural systems and (3) an awareness of the capabilities and limitations of the currently available image log tools. Several case studies and numerous practicals are used to ensure the course attendees have a working familiarity with procedures needed to make their own fracture analyses and structural interpretations.

COURSE AGENDA

Day 1:
Geometric, kinematic and mechanics approaches to structural analysis. Introduction to rock mechanics. Geometric characteristics of natural fracture systems. Case study of fractures developed across Monkshood Anticline, a detachment fold developed in Mississippian carbonates in northeastern B.C. Quantitative evaluation of fractures in core. Basic operation of image log and dipmeter tools.

Day 2:
Image log detection of fractures in the subsurface and quantification of fracture geometry from image logs. Case study of the evolution of fractures developed in folded Cardium sandstones, central Alberta Foothills. Thrust systems framework: tectonic setting, evolution of thrust systems, fold-and-thrust belt terminology, hydrocarbon traps in fold-and-thrust belts. Kinematic and geometric models of fold-thrust interactions.

Day 3:
Kinematic and geometric models of fold-thrust interactions. Analysis of dipmeter data and determination of dip domains. Fold-thrust cross-section construction from dipmeter data. Extensional systems framework: tectonic setting, evolution of extensional systems, normal fault geometry and linkage patterns, hydrocarbon traps in extensional systems. Kinematic and geometric models of flexures developed above listric normal faults.

Day 4:
Interpretation of normal and reverse drag from dip data. Cross section construction in normal fault settings using dip data. Strike-slip systems: mechanical interactions and linkages of primary and secondary faults. Kinematics of compressional folds developed in transpressional settings.

Day 5:
Modeling and prediction of fracture development in different structural settings.

LOCATION

First day will be held at the Sofitel Hotel, in Cairo. The participants will fly the next day to Hurghada to continue the course.

COURSE FEES

FIVE DAYS    U.S.$ 1800
Inclusive of refreshment and lunch at the Sofitel Hotel. Air Ticket Cairo/Hurghada/return and accommodation in Hurghada.

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE