A field-specific geomechanical model serves as a platform for dramatically reducing costs and increasing production over the life of a field. The information contained in a geomechanical model makes it possible to assess exploration risk associated with fault-seal breach caused by fault slip. Using model-specific stress, pore pressure, and rock properties information, drilling engineers can provide recommendations for efficient well design and placement to reduce adverse events such as stuck pipe and lost circulation. A geomechanical model also makes it possible to design completions to avoid or manage solids production and to extend the productive life of wells. In addition, the effects of reservoir depletion and injection can be predicted to enable optimal exploitation that avoids excessive reservoir damage, casing collapse, and hazards related to leakage of produced or injected fluids.

The essential contribution of wellbore image technologies to these exploration and production challenges is illustrated through recent case studies that apply wellbore imaging technologies to the detection, access, and recovery of hydrocarbons. Future reservoir development and management practice will demand an increased use of imaging techniques to ensure successful production in risky drilling environments, reduce the costs associated with drilling, and increase the economic lifetime of mature reservoirs.