Coal Bed Methane Play and Prospect Evaluations Using GeoGraphix Software

Abstract

Evaluation of coalbed methane plays, prospects, and properties is challenging work. Complex and computationally intensive, it employs a considerable diversity and volume of data, and involves a lot of interpretive analysis and mapping. The sources of data can also be a bit typical and there will also be need to combine and display the data in unusual ways. Many geologic interpretation software packages on the market today were designed specifically to handle data and workflows in conventional reservoirs. Programs that are limited, inflexible, or lack versatility can therefore be severely challenged by the differences encountered in coalbed methane projects. GeoGraphix software is not limited or inflexible and is of considerable help to the geologist and engineer in handling and interpreting a large diversity and volume of data in CBM plays. The primary objective in this CBM evaluation will be to lay-out a standard workflow for reservoir characterization, resources assessment, reserves estimation, and new well location selection on CBM properties using GeoGraphix software. Although the approach and techniques presented in this paper are very useful for many CBM plays, generalizing about what works or doesn?t work in CBM plays is dangerous because the keys to making each a success are different. So, even though the workflow will cover many of the tasks that need to be done for any CBM play, it is very probable that this procedure will need to be adjusted and customized to the specific play. A secondary objective of this paper will be to demonstrate practical application of fairly high-level CBM scientific theory in practical, real-world project settings. The main body of the paper will focus on the step-wise process of ``How-To', with only some explanation. But there will be distinct need, at times, for some technical discussion of the ``Why' in various sections. To keep the paper flowing, we will refer the reader to Appendices located at the end of the paper for discussion of the deeper scientific detail in each section. Also, it is beyond the scope of this paper to instruct the reader on exactly how to run the GeoGraphix software, and some working level of knowledge of it is assumed. However, we will present a procedure-based approach here that will describe not only the steps that need to be taken but also will advise the reader on how to accomplish those steps, in general, with the program.