Oil extraction optimization case: Horizontal permeability heterogeneity evaluation and application

Permeability is a parameter influenced by a direction and measurement scale that defines permeability as an anisotropic property. This parameter is very important, as it influences a fluid flow direction and velocities in the subsurface, which in turn causes problems with an uneven and unwanted water front, high early water production, losses of production and many other problems, if not addressed properly. Unfortunately, anisotropy becomes evident only when those unwanted symptoms occur. The knowledge of a magnitude and direction of anisotropy can be very important in production planning and management. Well pattern orientation, spacing, perforation program can all be optimized in the very early stages of development.