Paper: Real Time Exploration and Development Well Decisions Using PC Based Reservoir Simulators

Reservoir simulation has typically been applied to only the larger and more complicated reservoirs. The cost of performing such studies in a Unix/Workstation environment is high and most fields are not analyzed using reservoir simulation. Highpower inexpensive PCs, and software with a powerful, user-friendly interface that does not require a simulation expert has changed the economics of performing such studies to such an extent that engineers and geologists are now using PC-based reservoir simulation to evaluate exploration plays on a teal-time basis. This paper documents the process and results of a study that involved mapping, gridding, geostatistics and reservoir simulation of an exploration prospect while the drilling rig was on-site. The paper demonstrates the feasibility of using PC-based reservoir simulation as a routine part of reservoir management, beginning with the exploration well.