Comparing Simulated Production Response Across Realistic and Seismically Forward Modelled Fault Geometries

Outcrop examples show us that reservoir scale faults often have complex geometries, both in cross section and in three dimensions. This complexity may take the form of multiple slip planes, entrained lenses of host material, drag structures and relay zones, however the limitations of seismic data prevent much of this detail from being resolved and incorporated into geological and reservoir simulation models. By forward modelling the predicted seismic response of detailed fault geometries we are able to compare realistic fault architectures to those which can be identified in seismic datasets. In turn, by constructing reservoir simulation models, we are able to assess the impact of these different geometries on predicted hydrocarbon recovery. In certain situations differences in modelled cross fault juxtapositions and calculated fault rock properties between the realistic and forward modelled fault geometries result in significant variations in the simulated production response.