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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database
West Texas Geological Society
Abstract
Past, Present, and Future Applications of 3D Seismic in the Permian Basin
Abstract
While 3D seismic was shot in the Permian Basin as early as 1973, the current 3D “boom” can be traced to the publicity associated with use of the tool in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, in areas such as the Horseshoe Atoll and the Wolfcamp play in the Midland Basin. To date, approximately 9,000 - 15,000 square miles of 3D seismic have been shot, and it is likely that the vast majority of the Permian Basin will have been shot by the end of the decade. Costs for 3D surveys are averaging $20M - $25M per square mile, with approximately 95% of most companies seismic budgets being devoted to 3D. Companies are utilizing 3D for both producing fields (site infill wells, assist with reservoir characterization, define extension targets) and exploration (generate prospects, shoot out leads, etc.) applications. While there have been impressive successes associated with the use of 3D, there have also been many unsuccessful surveys (e.g. too few attractive prospects shot out, data quality too poor to map) and 3D based wells (incorrect structural interpretation because of velocity assumptions, poor reservoir rock, etc.).
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