Oxy geoscientists implement robust collaboration techniques that combine advanced computing and surveillance technologies with traditional geoscience and engineering functions.
An industry leader in reservoir surveillance techniques, Oxy utilizes visualization centers for seismic analysis, geologic interpretation and well-planning exercises. Visualization centers provide a high-quality, three-dimensional perspective of a reservoir’s characteristics and allow for simultaneous viewing of multidisciplinary data and applications. The information is available to be shared globally. These centers enable Oxy geoscientists to conduct collaborative technical sessions, facilitating accurate reservoir analysis.
Seismic surveys identify geological structures by measuring the reflective properties of sound waves to subterranean or subsea rock strata. The information is recorded on magnetic tape, transmitted and digitally processed by high-speed computers for interpretation by geoscience experts. 3-D seismic surveys are used in Oxy's producing and exploration operations to generate detailed three-dimensional images of underground structures, which allow geophysicists to identify reservoir size, shape and depth estimates as well as porosity and fluid content.
State-of-the-art 4-C seismic surveys with shear wave technology are allowing Oxy’s geophysicists to better characterize the highly fractured carbonate reservoirs prevalent in the Middle East. Oxy is a leader in implementing this new technology in the Arabian Gulf.
Oxy geophysicists are currently implementing 4-D seismic surveys, which are the repeated application of 3-D seismic surveys over time, to detect fluid changes in the reservoirs. Monitoring fluid movement within oil and gas reservoirs over time can be critical to the efficient production of hydrocarbons from major fields.