Visualizing the Depths: Subsurface Mapping Techniques Training Course

Introduction

Subsurface mapping is the fundamental art and science of translating disparate geological and geophysical data into coherent, interpretable representations of the Earth's hidden structures and rock layers. These maps are indispensable tools for hydrocarbon exploration, reservoir characterization, and groundwater management, guiding critical decisions on drilling locations, resource estimation, and infrastructure development. Mastery of various mapping techniques is crucial for unlocking the secrets beneath the surface.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip participants with a comprehensive and practical understanding of subsurface mapping techniques. From exploring the fundamental principles of geological mapping and data integration to mastering the construction of structural, isopach, and property maps, and utilizing industry-standard software, you will gain the expertise to visualize and interpret the subsurface effectively. This empowers you to identify potential hydrocarbon traps, characterize reservoirs, assess geological risks, and strategically contribute to successful subsurface projects.

Target Audience

  • Geologists and Geophysicists in Exploration and Development.
  • Reservoir Engineers and Production Engineers.
  • Drilling Engineers and Well Planners.
  • Geomodeling Specialists.
  • Data Scientists working with Geospatial Data.
  • Academics and Students in Earth Sciences.
  • Technical Staff involved in Subsurface Interpretation.
  • Anyone seeking to develop practical skills in subsurface mapping.

Duration: 10 days

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this training course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamental principles and importance of subsurface mapping.
  • Grasp the various types of data used for subsurface mapping (well logs, seismic, core).
  • Analyze different mapping techniques for structural, stratigraphic, and property maps.
  • Comprehend the process of contouring and gridding for map generation.
  • Evaluate the impact of geological uncertainty on mapping and interpretation.
  • Develop practical skills in utilizing industry-standard mapping software.
  • Navigate the complexities of integrating diverse subsurface datasets into coherent maps.
  • Formulate robust strategies for effective subsurface characterization and decision-making through mapping.

Course Content

  1. Introduction to Subsurface Mapping
  • Defining Subsurface Mapping Module: representing geological features beneath the Earth's surface
  • Purpose of Subsurface Maps Module: exploration, reservoir characterization, well planning, resource estimation
  • Types of Subsurface Maps Module: structural, isopach, property, facies maps
  • Data Sources for Mapping Module: well logs, seismic data, core data, outcrop data
  • The essential role of mapping in subsurface understanding
  1. Geological Data for Mapping
  • Well Log Data Module: formation tops, fluid contacts, lithology interpretation from logs
  • Core Data Module: direct measurements of rock properties, facies, fractures
  • Outcrop Data Module: understanding analogous surface exposures
  • Biostratigraphic Data Module: age dating and correlation
  • Preparing and quality controlling geological data for mapping
  1. Geophysical Data for Mapping (Seismic)
  • Seismic Horizon Picking Module: identifying key reflectors representing geological boundaries
  • Seismic Fault Mapping Module: interpreting fault planes and their extent
  • Time-to-Depth Conversion Module: converting seismic time maps to true depth maps
  • Seismic Attributes for Mapping Module: using attributes (e.g., RMS amplitude, coherence) to enhance geological features
  • Integrating seismic data into the mapping workflow
  1. Contouring Principles and Techniques
  • Purpose of Contouring Module: representing 3D surfaces on a 2D map
  • Contour Interval and Scale Module: impact on map detail and readability
  • Rules of Contouring Module: never cross, close on themselves, V-rule at stream crossings (for surface maps)
  • Manual Contouring Techniques Module: traditional methods, geological judgment
  • Understanding the art and science of contouring
  1. Gridding and Interpolation Methods
  • Purpose of Gridding Module: creating a regular grid from irregularly spaced data
  • Interpolation Methods Module: Nearest Neighbor, Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW), Kriging, Spline
  • Choosing the Right Interpolation Method Module: based on data distribution and geological understanding
  • Grid Resolution and Cell Size Module: impact on map detail and computational time
  • Understanding how digital maps are created from scattered data points
  1. Structural Mapping
  • Structure Contour Maps Module: representing the elevation of a geological horizon
  • Fault Maps Module: showing fault traces, throws, and relationships
  • Top and Base Reservoir Maps Module: defining the structural limits of a reservoir
  • Cross-Section Construction Module: projecting subsurface features onto a vertical plane
  • Interpreting and mapping structural traps (folds, faults)
  1. Stratigraphic and Isopach Mapping
  • Isopach Maps Module: showing true vertical or true stratigraphic thickness of a unit
  • Gross Isopach vs. Net Isopach Module: total thickness vs. reservoir quality thickness
  • Facies Maps Module: showing distribution of different rock types or depositional environments
  • Paleogeographic Maps Module: reconstructing ancient depositional settings
  • Mapping the distribution and thickness of reservoir units
  1. Property Mapping
  • Porosity Maps Module: showing distribution of pore space
  • Permeability Maps Module: showing distribution of fluid flow capacity
  • Water Saturation Maps Module: showing distribution of water (and thus hydrocarbons)
  • Net Pay Maps Module: identifying zones with economic hydrocarbon saturation
  • Mapping Hydrocarbon Contacts Module: oil-water contact (OWC), gas-water contact (GWC)
  • Quantifying and mapping reservoir quality
  1. Subsurface Mapping Software and Workflows
  • Introduction to Industry-Standard Software Module: Petrel, Kingdom Suite, Geographix (practical exercises)
  • Basic Software Functionalities Module: data import, well correlation, horizon picking, fault mapping, gridding, contouring
  • Workflow for Subsurface Mapping Module: systematic approach from data preparation to map generation
  • 3D Visualization and Model Building Module: creating integrated 3D geological models
  • Hands-on experience with leading mapping tools
  1. Uncertainty and Best Practices in Subsurface Mapping
  • Sources of Uncertainty in Mapping Module: data quality, interpretation choices, interpolation methods
  • Quantifying Mapping Uncertainty Module: sensitivity analysis, multiple realizations
  • Common Mapping Pitfalls Module: contouring errors, misinterpretations
  • Best Practices for Map Presentation Module: clarity, legends, scale, north arrow
  • Integrating Mapping with Reservoir Modeling Module: using maps as input for simulation
  • Ensuring robust and reliable subsurface maps for decision-making.

CERTIFICATION

  • Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

  • Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

  • Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com

For More Details call: +254-114-087-180

 

 

Visualizing The Depths: Subsurface Mapping Techniques Training Course in Turkmenistan
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