Detection and Evaluation of Abnormally High Formation Pressures Using The Team approach

$10.00

Walter H. Fertl, Dresser Atlas Division,
P. E. Ilavia, Dresser Industries, Inc

6th Formation Evaluation Symposium of the
Canadian Well Logging Society in Calgary, October 24, 25 & 26, 1977

1977

Abstract

Distribution of hydrocarbon resources is related to regional and local subsurface pressure and temperature environments. Knowledge of the expected pore pressure and fracture gradients is the basis for efficiently drilling wells with correct mud weights, properly engineered casing programs, and proper completions which must be effective, safe, and allow for killing the well without excessive formation carnage. In reservoir engineering, formation pressures influence compressibility as well as failure of reservoir rocks and can be re- sponsible for water influx from adjacent over- pressured shale sections as an additional driving mechanism in hydrocarbon production (Fertl, 1976). Since detection and quantitative evaluation of overpressured formations are critical to exploration, drilling, and production operations involving hydrocarbon and geothermal resources, an interdisciplinary technical team approach is recommended to optimize the safety, engineering, and financial aspects of operating in such a hostile subsurface environment.