Time-Lapse Seismic For Optimal Reservoir Management - A Global Perspective

Time-lapse or 4D seismic data has proven value in reservoir management, increasing reserves and recovery by locating bypassed and undrained hydrocarbons and optimizing infill well locations and flood patterns. 4D seismic can also decrease operating costs by reducing uncertainty in the reservoir models, optimizing completions, and minimizing the number of dry holes. ExxonMobil’s 4D experience demonstrates this added value to reservoir management over a wide range of geographical areas, geological settings, and production scenarios. This paper describes three 4D case studies; from the Norwegian North Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and West Africa. In each case, the interpretation of 4D seismic data adds value to the field in ways that are not always anticipated beforehand. Most 4D seismic surveys contain at least one surprise. The value of that information can be significant.