Barents Sea Pressure Study

Completed:  2011

Subsurface pressure data from 82 out of 84 exploration and appraisal wells have been used to generate reservoir pressure maps.  In addition, the burial and pressure history of the region has been defined using AFTA (apatite fission track) data, together with vitrinite reflectance and sonic velocity analysis, from 21 of the study wells.  The study addresses issues such as: overpressure distribution, expansion during uplift, seal breach and unexplained dry holes.

The study area, together with an indication of the distribution of wells used in the study is shown in the map below.

Benefits:

• An understanding of the implications for exploration in the region.
• An increased likelihood of finding and drilling successful prospects.
• An understanding of the significance of the current and historic pressure values in the region, and their relationship to the breaching history of traps.
• The knowledge that you need in order to evaluate the drilling risks, and put you in greater control of safety and well planning.

Deliverables:

• Single- and multi-well pressure-depth plots which illustrate key relationships, such as pressure transition zones, including those through Triassic strata, and pressure reversals.
• Overpressure maps for all stratigraphic levels.
• Detailed burial curves for 21 wells, including an assessment of subsidence, uplift and hiatus across the Barents Sea pressure study area.
• A Palaeo-Pressure model of the region which predicts breach risk for undrilled prospects with a 70% accuracy when tested against dry wells.
• A discussion of the implications of overpressure variation in the region, including:

 - Hydrodynamics

 - Lateral drainage
 - Pressure transition zones

• Relationships for overburden, fracture pressure and pore pressure.

Complete our Pressure Study Request Form to find out more about purchasing your own copy of the Barents Sea Pressure Study.