New Model for the Identification of Flow Units and Optimization of Results through a Clustering Algorithm

Zuñiga Arenas G.L.G.; Sinchitullo J.; Contreras E.C. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2023)

Resumen

Petrophysical characterization employs the concept of hydraulic flow units (HFU) as a primary part of the workflow. Determination of HFUs is possible using a variety of methods and the Kozeny-Carman equation. However, models to identify HFUs are employed without a rigorous analysis of their functionality over all types of reservoirs. Therefore, the following work aims to propose a new discretization method, as well as the use of the k-means algorithm to improve the results of several of these methods. In this way, the structure of the discretization models of the flow zone indicator (FZI), such as the Global Hydraulic Element (GHE) and Discretized Rock Type (DRT) was analyzed. These methods are based on the logarithmic distribution of FZI and other factors that determine the membership of a sample to a given HFU. In addition, the validity of the proposed methodology was contrasted by comparing the results on core data from the Pariñas formation of the Álvarez Oveja field of the Talara basin. Likewise, the problem of the optimal number of flow units was analyzed and its importance in order not to lack a physical meaning or lose the degree of correlation between permeability and porosity. The results obtained through the proposed algorithm were an optimization of the results and an improvement of the correlation coefficients when predicting permeability. Finally, it is recommended to use the techniques developed in cluster analysis to solve these problems and the dependence of the equations relating porosity and permeability is emphasized.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería