Abstract

Recent improvements in wireline formation testing tools and in gauge accuracy greatly enhance the reservoir engineers ability to estimate reserves for new discoveries. This paper describes how pressure data from this tool were used to accurately predict the oil-water and gas-oil contacts in the recently discovered Ikan Pari Field, Block B, Natuna Sea, Indonesia. The prediction is in very good agreement with interfacial depth determined by relative permeability and capillary pressure data. The tool also gave a fair approximation of insitu permeability as compared to drill stem tests results.

Wireline formation tester measurements were used in two Ikan Pari wells to evaluate the fluid content and reservoir permeability, thereby eliminating the need for setting casing to obtain flow tests (DSTs). This resulted in 1.5 million USD savings in exploratory funds.

The successful use of this tool at Ikan Pari has built confidence in its use for other exploration wells in Block B. Some questions remain. These will be answered by collecting more data in Block B, by exchanging information with other operators, and/or by literature searches.