Course Description

Seismic data, in particular 3D seismic data, is a mainstay of the petroleum industry. Seismic data are used by geophysicists, geologists and engineers alike to image subsurface structure and stratigraphy, identify hydrocarbons, and thereby generate drilling prospects and effectively drain oil and gas reservoirs. Achieving an understanding of all of the methods and concepts used during the interpretation process can be a daunting task. A partial list of disciplines incorporated into a complete interpretation includes rock physics, signal processing, wireline log analysis, computer visualization, structural geology, stratigraphy and petroleum engineering.

Course Goal

To enhance the participants’ knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to gain a practical knowledge and understanding of the techniques and concepts used in the seismic interpretation process, this course provides a thorough introduction covering all aspects, from the fundamentals of the seismic method to mapping and the use of seismic attributes.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participant will be able to:

• Explain fundamental aspects of seismic wave propagation, diffractions, and reflection criteria.
• Compare 2D and 3D seismic acquisition techniques; evaluate key survey requirements necessary to achieve project objectives.
• Assess the importance of key seismic data processing steps including datum and statics corrections, velocity analyses, migration and depth imaging.
• Contrast 2D and 3D seismic data benefits, recognize common imaging pitfalls.
• Explain how prospect risk factors can influence project objectives and interpretation workflows.
• Demonstrate practical interpretation skills; construct and use synthetic seismograms, perform well-seismic ties, 2D line correlation, horizon and fault identification, seismic picking and basic mapping.
• Compare seismic time-to-depth conversion techniques and recognize the advantages and disadvantages of different methods.
• Determine factors affecting seismic resolution at the reservoir scale.
• Differentiate the various types of seismic attributes available and select appropriate attributes for a given project.
• Demonstrate the relationship between mapping exercises on paper and modern workstation practices.
• Apply basic stratigraphic seismic interpretation skills including identification of major sequence boundaries, and also 3D stratigraphic slicing to map channel reservoirs.

Who Can Benefit

Geologists, geoscientists and petroleum engineers.