Application of 3D Streamline Methodology in the Saladin Reservoir and Other Studies

A study of the Saladin (Barrow Group) reservoir (off shore Western Australia) was conducted using the 3D Streamline Simulation (3DSM) in 1998. This reservoir was in a harvest mode and therefore it was deemed important to investigate any remaining potential prior to abandonment. The reservoir has been on production since December 1989 entirely under primary depletion supported by an extensive and strong aquifer. Current recovery factor is over 70%! The study was initially conducted using a standard finite difference simulator but lengthy run times were encountered. Due to project time constraints a 3DSM model was constructed and tested. This model was found to be stable with significantly shorter run times. A very good history match was achieved in a short time and the results indicated two distinct areas of significant bypassed oil. The history matched model data was then converted into the finite difference model. An almost identical history match solution was achieved quickly but at significantly longer run times. As a result of this modeling, drilling during mid-1999 in one of the recommended target areas has yielded significant recovery of bypassed oil. This paper will highlight 3DSM (based on Reference 1) and its applicability to other reservoirs via the Saladin study. Other applications (e.g. geostatistical model screening.) currently being undertaken using this methodology will also be discussed along with comparisons to finite difference simulators. Conclusions will also be presented on the advantages and impact of using this methodology for reservoir studies.