Integrated Fracture Characterization and Modeling in North Kuwait Carbonate Reservoirs

Abstract

Abstract The North Kuwait Carbonate (NKJG) reservoirs are currently under development by KOC (Kuwait Oil Company). The appraisal and development of the NKJG offer challenges such as lateral variations in reservoir quality, tight to very tight reservoirs and natural fracturing to a varying degree spatially. The presence of open, connected fractures is one of the key elements to achieve a successful development. Also, the presence of fracture corridors increase the risk associated with drilling. Numerous fracture modelling studies have been supporting both appraisal and development strategies of the fields. A structural evolution model has been developed based on field observations and linked to the regional phases of deformations. Detailed fracture characterization using static BHI (bore hole images) and core data as well as dynamic data has been achieved. Small scale detailed DFN (Discrete Fracture Network) in support of planning and drilling activities of future appraisal wells has been carried out. Full field DFN in support to production history matching and forecast has been completed. The core and pressure transient analysis data have been used to calibrate the permeability and porosity of the DFN property ahead of the dynamic simulation work. This paper illustrates some examples of best practices of the various study components with a focus on core to BHI calibration, fracture porosity calibration using core data and calibration of DFN models using pressure transient analysis data.