Abstract
For a heterogeneous reservoir, the shape of a buildup curve is strongly dependent on the length of the preceding flow period. Therefore, in exploration well testing, where the flow period is usually short, modification of the pressure buildup pattern caused by insufficient flow time can lead to erroneous interpretation of well behavior. Buildup pattern, as a function of flow time, is discussed here for various types of ideal heterogeneities such as linear reservoir discontinuities, natural fractures, vertical stratification, pressure support, and lateral permeability loss. A relationship is provided for the dimensionless flow time required to produce a certain buildup pattern. The effect of flow time on quantitative assessment of reservoir parameters is determined as well.
