4D Finite element modeling of stress distribution in depleted reservoir of south Iraq oilfield

The harvest of hydrocarbon from the depleted reservoir is crucial during field development. Therefore, drilling operations in the depleted reservoir faced several problems like partial and total lost circulation. Continuing production without an active water drive or water injection to support reservoir pressure will decrease the pore and fracture pressure. Moreover, this depletion will affect the distribution of stress and change the mud weight window. This study focused on vertical stress, maximum and minimum horizontal stress redistributions in the depleted reservoirs due to decreases in pore pressure and, consequently, the effect on the mud weight window. 1D and 4D robust geomechanical models are built based on all available data in a mature oil field. The 1D model was used to estimate all mechanical rock properties, stress, and pore pressure. The minimum and maximum horizontal stress were determined using the poroelastic horizontal strain model. Furthermore, the mechanical properties were calibrated using drained triaxial and uniaxial compression tests. The pore pressure was tested using modular dynamic tester log MDT. The Mohr-Coulomb model was applied in the 4D model to calculate the stress distribution in the depleted reservoir. According to study wells, the target area has been classified into four main groups in Mishrif reservoir based on depletion: highly, moderately, slightly, and no depleted region. Also, the results showed that the units had been classified into three main categories based on depletion state (from above to low depleted): L1.1, L1.2, and M1. The mean average reduction in minimum horizontal stress magnitude was 322 psi for L1.1, 183.86 psi for L1.2, and 115.56 psi for M1. Thus, the lower limit of fracture pressure dropped to a high value in L1.1, which is considered a weak point. As a result of changing horizontal stress, the mud weight window became narrow.

Automated summary

This study focused on the stress redistribution in depleted reservoirs due to changes in pore pressure, with a focus on vertical stress, maximum and minimum horizontal stress changes, and their impact on the mud weight window. By using 1D and 4D geomechanical models, the study analyzed the mechanical rock properties, stress, and pore pressure, and determined the stress distribution in the reservoir. The results showed classifications of reservoir areas based on depletion and changes in stress, leading to a narrow mud weight window.