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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract

Volume: 56 (1972)

Issue: 10. (October)

First Page: 2075

Last Page: 2078

Title: Statistical Methods of Petroleum Exploration in Part of Denver Basin, Colorado

Author(s): Andrew M. Taylor (2)

Abstract:

Pattern drilling was tested in a sample area on the east flank of the Denver basin ("fairway" trend area) and compared with effectiveness of actual drilling, which might be described as a combination of random and geologic-lead drilling.

Pattern drilling will discover all fields of a size larger than the area of the spacing between pattern wells and, conversely, tends to avoid finding fields of a size much smaller than the grid spacing.

The pattern selected "discovered" 116 million bbl of oil, with an average yield of 123,000 bbl of oil per well. Historical drilling in the area has led to production of 153 million bbl of oil or 66,500 bbl per well (as of January 1, 1969). The pattern-well production average is better than the historical yield, as only the larger fields, with higher production per well, were found by the pattern.

In the sample area at least, pattern drilling could have been more economical than the actual drilling according to geologic leads, promotional deals, and leasing arrangements.

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