ABSTRACT

A successful 4D survey using a dual-vessel acquisition method was acquired over Holstein in 2006. The dual-vessel acquisition was designed to overcome the repeatability challenges in the GoM caused by the loop and eddy currents, which could significantly alter the source and receiver positions between the baseline and monitor surveys. Time-lapse amplitude hardening and time-lapse timeshifts as large as 6ms are observed after production primarily through pressure depletion. Besides the overall understanding of the subsurface as a result of the 4D survey, specific business decisions have been made which directly impacted the field development plan. This includes providing an alternative injector location in the J2 sand as well as increasing the probability of success (POS) and advancing the drilling of the K1 south sidetrack. The clear business impact made by the 2006 monitor have prompted the Holstein JV to plan for a second monitor in 2010, for which a 4D feasibility study was completed late in 2008. Parameters such as the R factor as well as the pore compressibility for the different sands have been calibrated as part of the 4D Close-the-Loop (CtL) using the baseline and 2006 monitor.

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