Oil and Gas Exploration Services


Summary

Quantec provides geophysical services to the Oil and Gas Sector. Our primary focus for non-seismic data acquisition is deep resistivity imaging technologies and potential field methods. Quantec carries out land based magnetometer and gravity surveys globally and our high quality direct current(DC) resistivity, induced polarisation (IP) and magnetotelluric (MT) resistivity surveys have proven useful as a compliment to seismic surveys in a variety of environments which can prove challenging for seismic alone.

Data can be collected in 2D profile or in full 3D. For electrical resistivity imaging Quantec can deploy the TITAN 24 2D  DCIP & MT resistivity system to provide high resolution lateral imaging.  For 3D data acquisition Quantec utilises the ORION 3D DCIP & MT system.  The ORION 3D system can provide omnidirectional DC resistivity sampling for shallow applications  <1000m and detailed resistivity blocks to depths of 3 km and deeper The system is very flexible and can be deployed virtually anywhere. Visit our technology page to find out more about these unique technologies. TECHNOLOGY

Quantec survey teams can execute surveys globally and have worked in tandem with seismic teams on several occasions. Quantec puts a priority on safe operations, and our HSE  planning and protocols fit with any seismic operation.  Logistically, Quantec has a small environmental footprint, and our equipment is lightweight and robust. Quantec’s technologies function across any terrain, any elevation and in all climates, from 40°C below to 50°C above.

Quantec geophysicists use advanced 2D, 3D and joint parameter inversion modelling techniques for potential and electrical methods.  All Quantec surveys integrate well with other data. We can provide our data in many standard and custom formats for integration in different 2D & 3D modelling packages.

Applications

Deep resistivity surveys can be useful to Oil and Gas exploration in areas where seismic data on its own delivers unreliable interpretations. Some specific ways resistivity data can be used for oil & gas exploration includes:

  • Image the geology underneath permafrost
  • Image beneath high impedance boundaries, such as below volcanic cover
  • Identify changes in lithology not expressed as variations in acoustic impedance
  • Provide indication of pore fluid type
  • Contribute independent physical property data to be used in geostatistical or neural network reservoir modelling
  • Detect subtle changes, including hydrocarbon content, in shale layers

MT data complimenting seismic data

Application Examples

Heavy Oil Exploration and Evaluation

Currently, geophysical efforts to optimize SAGD production involve deriving velocity and density changes (related to an advancing steam flood) from time lapse (4D) seismic. A resistivity survey will directly measure variations in the electrical properties of fluids present within a heavy oil reservoir. This means a DCIP + MT survey can detect where the oil/water contact is, and a 4D survey can monitor the replacement of bitumen with steam/water over time. This would allow identification of zones that have been untouched by the steam flood, leading to increased production and less resource left in the ground.

The results from a one-time Quantec DCIP + MT survey when combined with seismic data could result in a more accurate definition of steam chamber edges. Time lapse DCIP + MT surveys possibly represent a cost effective alternative to expensive seismic monitoring of SAGD operations.

For recent publications on SAGD and resistivity methods. Click here.

ORION 3D provides highly accurate images of the resistivity distribution in the subsurface. This provides an additional data set to help improve subsurface image detail. By integrating with all data sets, comprehensive models can help to increase understanding and confidence in reservoir management.

ORION 3D Resistivity (high resolution in the top 1200 metres)

See how  ORION 3D works.

Contact our team to discuss your exploration or production challenges and learn how we might help.

 

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