Completion Optimization by Fracture Mapping Using Realtime High Resolution Resistivity Imaging Tool in Horizontal Wells of Western Offshore India

Abstract The Western Offshore Basin is a significant geological region located along the western coast of India, extending from Gujarat in the north to Maharashtra in the south. It encompasses a vast expanse of the Arabian Sea, where the continental shelf gradually gives way to the deep oceanic waters. This basin is of immense importance in the field of hydrocarbon exploration and production due to its rich reserves of oil and natural gas. The petroleum industry finds horizontal wells highly appealing because they offer a promising solution for enhancing both production rates and recovery efficiency. By drilling horizontal drain holes, the number of wells required to exploit a field can be reduced significantly, thanks to their extensive reservoir exposure. Nevertheless, it is crucial to address the challenges related to completing these wells to extend their operational lifespan. To optimize oil recovery and prolong the lifespan of a well, horizontal wells need to be completed with an optimal number of Inflow Control Devices (ICDs) that have appropriate Flow Resistance Ratings (FRR). This setup ensures the even distribution of flow along the horizontal well in formations with high permeability. It also helps mitigate early breakthrough at the heel for thin oil formations and delays water breakthrough at locations with high permeability in heterogeneous formations. Advanced high-definition Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) electrical imaging services has brought a significant breakthrough in subsurface characterization during drilling operations. This cutting-edge technology combines the power of LWD measurements with high-resolution electrical imaging capabilities, offering unprecedented insights into the geological formations surrounding the wellbore. Real-time images are valuable for detecting wellbore stability problems such as drilling-induced tensile fractures and breakout in time to mitigate the problem. Sedimentary steering is also possible with real-time images, letting you keep the wellbore in the best part of the formation. This paper aims to examine the progress of modern technology in high-definition logging-while-drilling electrical imaging tools. These tools gather micro resistivity data along the entire circumference of the borehole while the bottomhole assembly (BHA) is rotating. The obtained micro resistivity image from LWD, after undergoing processing, effectively revealed the existence of fractures. These fractures were subsequently classified into various zones to determine the optimal ICD completion based on the density of fractures. Geological features such as natural fractures and dissolution features such as vugs are clearly resolved and captured by the high-resolution image acquired using LWD Electrical Image logging tool.