SPE OKC September Monthly Luncheon Featuring George Norton

7000 Northwest Grand Boulevard,Nichols Hills OK 73116

16 September, 2021

Description

Optimizing Field Development and Predicting EUR Utilizing Geochemistry Abstract: Field development strategies have been variable in many basins due to the unpredictability of well performance, spacing implications, and parent/child well interactions. Oil in place, reservoir thickness and porosity have been used for mapping efforts to increase the likelihood of drilling in the most desirable locations for years with limited success. Using a data analytics approach in conjunction with a state-of-the-art geochemical drainage analysis, a new strategy for appraisal and development can be formulated and key areas identified with limited amounts of new drilling activity. Combining the geochemistry data which identifies the specific regions that are contributing with basic vertical logs from historical wells and applying multi-variant analysis techniques to those specific drained regions, it is possible to identify which variables lead to correlations to EUR (expected ultimate recovery). Once EUR can be predicted in a stand-alone well, it is then possible to further evaluate spacing implications (vertically or horizontally), and accurately measure the percentage of degradation and communication. Combining this information is possible utilizing a RQI (reservoir quality index) and generating a contour map of the RQI allows the user to predict with ~75%+ accuracy the EUR of potential wells. This significantly aids in land evaluation, development planning, well spacing, and economic prediction. SPE members should take away a new approach for utilizing geochemistry data in conjunction with conventional log data and data analytics not for purely just a drainage analysis, but a field development and EUR predicting method that is able to be mapped with accuracy previously unavailable. Biography: George Norton is a Senior Completions Engineer with Red Bluff Resources and holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Prior to Red Bluff Resources, George had the opportunity to work in the field with Schlumberger and StrataGen Engineering, overseeing fracturing operations. During this time he was able to gain experience in the Permian, Anadarko, Bakken, Eagle ford, and Piceance basins. George joined Occidental Petroleum in 2014 and led various projects focused on optimization of fracturing chemistries, fracture design, and innovation projects. George is a recipient of the Exemplary Volunteer Award and Outstanding Study Group Award via SPE along with 4 awards from his time at Occidental Petroleum related to innovation, and 1 award at Schlumberger for operational performance. During his service George has worked with multidisciplinary teams focused on new technologies and innovation to understand well performance. George has chaired sessions for URTeC, currently serves as the Oklahoma City Program Chair, has organized SPE workshops, and presented multiple times at various conferences.