Eagle Ford Completion Optimization Using Horizontal Log Data

Schlumberger and four Eagle Ford Shale Play operators drilling in South Texas joined a consortium initiative to acquire various types of open hole logging data in several horizontal wells, and use the data to design the completions with optimum fracture stage and perforation cluster positioning. Horizontal production logs were subsequently used to gauge the effectiveness of using the log data to engineer the completions. This paper outlines the data acquisition techniques, analyses made on that data, application, results and conclusion. Previous work carried out on production logging data acquired in several shale plays including the Eagle Ford (Miller et al, 2011) shows a significant variation in perforation cluster contribution. Other documented results showing the effect of targeting similarly stressed rock for fracture treatments (Waters, Heinze, Jackson, 2011) in the Marcellus. The objective of this study was to improve the initial flow capacity of the well by increasing the number of perforation clusters contributing to production. A related objective was to determine the optimal horizontal logging program that was needed to characterize the rock with minimal interruption to existing work flows. This paper will show the results of data acquired over 12 horizontal wells in the Eagle Ford Shale (see map in figure 1). Petrophysical and geomechanical analyses were based on horizontal logging measurements and used as inputs to an engineered completion design tool that generated a recommendation on each well design. The design tool grouped intervals with similar properties for stimulation treatment. Following the treatment, horizontal production logs were run through the zones to measure the perforation cluster contribution. The results of the study have the potential to change the way Unconventional Resources are developed. Recent trends have seen a shift away from data acquisition to blind geometrical fracturing. This paper examines the value of acquiring petrophysical data in the lateral section and its application to completion optimization, the minimization of wasted resources, and the impact on early production.