Principles & Interpretation of 2-D and 3-D Seismic (NOV 2021)

Module VI: Principles of 2-D and 3-D Seismic Interpretation

Instructor:                    Dr. Mangat R. Thapar

Course Length:            5 Days

Course CEUs:   2.0

Course Description:

The basic principles and technology associated with 2-D seismic data interpretation provide the interpreter with the solid foundation necessary for 3-D interpretation. It is important to grasp the concepts of 2-D and 3-D seismic data and associated processing techniques. One can only quality control 2-D or 3-D data by learning and understanding the survey design and the data processing flow. For 3-D survey, it is important to know or determine that the survey template design meets all fundamental principles required in a good design. In processing, it is important to know how to QC pre and post migration techniques.

To realize the full potential benefits from seismic data, it is important to have full knowledge of the available technologies, e.g. VSP, Seismic Attributes, P and S wave multi-component data, Anisotropy, and Time Lapse (4-D) applications. Other valuable applications are the use of amplitude and frequencies to estimate thickness of thin beds. For an effective and a sound interpretation of seismic data in time and depth, it is necessary to fully learn and utilize available tools for modeling in 1-D, 2-D and 3-D. All interpretations of 2-D and 3-D data lead to a variety of maps. Therefore, it is very important to have a good understanding of Geostatistical Kriging and variogram modeling.

Typically costing less than a few pennies per barrel of oil, 3-D seismic data not only reduces the risk involved in drilling exploration and development wells, but also can dramatically increase production from existing fields. The success of any exploration or development program utilizing 3-D seismic data is dependent upon accurate, three-dimensionally viable structural and stratigraphic interpretations of the seismic data. The successful interpretation of a 3-D seismic survey depends on proper survey design, acquisition, and processing, guarding against pitfalls, and optimal utilization of available 3-D technologies.

• Detailed step by step discussion of how to design a 3-D survey along with crucial processing steps and related pitfalls.
• Discussion of the application of VSP, methodology for mapping channels, Geostatistical Krigging for thickness interpolation, time lapse 3-D (4-D), principles of P & S wave (multi-component) anisotropy analysis and interpretation, component rotation, and S-wave splitting into slow and fast due to fractures and saturation.
• In-depth explanation of thin bed thickness estimation using properly processed and modeled amplitudes and frequencies, and related pitfalls
• How to utilize of seismic attributes including coherency and variance.
• How to apply seismic modeling in 3-D analysis and to convert stacking into interval velocities for dipping layers.

Exercises:

• Calculating aliasing relating to sampling/Re-sampling of seismic data
• Calculating migration aperture
• Calculating Fresnel Zone parameters
• Design 3-D Survey Template and calculated related source/receiver parameters
• P and S wave attenuation for a thick gas/oil reservoir
• Calculating and mapping thin bed thickness from modeling and amplitudes.

Learning Outcomes:

• Utilize essential procedures in structural and stratigraphic interpretation
• Apply fundamental principles of structural and stratigraphic interpretation
• Use Geostatistical Kriging
• Use S-waves in fractured reservoir interpretation
• Conduct risk analysis of 4-D data

Who Should Attend?

Interpreters who need an understanding of 3-D seismic fundamentals, geophysicists, geologists, technical support personnel, seismic processors, exploration and data processing managers, and data acquisition managers; any geoscience professionals who uses 3-D seismic data.

Prerequisites:

It is recommended that participants take Seismic Survey Design, Acquisition and Processing; and AVO and Seismic Attributes or equivalent courses.

Course Content

·         Overview of 3-D data acquisition and processing

·         Principles of 3-D migration

·         Horizontal and horizon slices

·         3-D modeling

·         3-D seismic technologies

·         Geostistical Kriging and variogram

·         Anisotropy, 3-D, 3-C, S-waves

·         Application of seismic attributes

·         Thickness estimation using amplitude modeling, and frequency

Participants are encouraged to bring data examples related to this course.