This presentation will show how time-lapse or 4D seismic data can be used as an additional constraint to history match reservoir models in a 4D Seismic History Matching (4D SHM) workflow. 4D seismic provides an independently measured and spatially extensive dataset that complements the field’s production data.
It is sensitive to fluid saturation and pressure changes and provides information on the dynamic behavior of the reservoirs. It is also sensitive to the geological properties and informs the geological model too. 4D SHM is the process of developing reservoir models that are consistent with both the observed production data and the 4D seismic data. When 4D seismic data are available the reservoir model can be used to generate synthetic 4D data. Discrepancies between those two datasets are used to update the models and to attain a seismic history matched simulation model. A case study will be presented where 4D SHM was applied to the Harding and Gryphon fields in the North Sea. It was used to develop regional geological and simulation models for a major gas development project. The combination of geological knowledge, reservoir simulation and 4D SHM led to greater confidence in the final models. 4D SHM is an evolving technology, so the presentation will conclude with a discussion on the current status of the technology and some of its research and development directions.