PORE PRESSURE ESTIMATION ENGINE IN HIGHLY UNCONSOLIDATED FORMATIONS OF THE NIGER DELTA

ABSTRACT

The Niger Delta, renowned for its rich hydrocarbon reserves, presents unique geological challenges in the form of highly unconsolidated formations. Accurate pore pressure estimation is pivotal to the safe and efficient drilling of wells in this region. This project introduces an innovative Pore Pressure Estimation Engine, implemented as an Excel macro, tailored specifically to address the complex geological conditions of the Niger Delta. This research aims to predict Pore Pressure and Fracture Pressure Forecasts within the Niger Delta region using field data from the area as a case study. We examine two pore pressure forecasting models, namely the resistivity model and the sonic transit time model developed by Ben Eaton. Additionally, we explore three fracture pressure forecasting models, including Eaton's model, Hubbert and Willis' model, and Matthew and Kelly's model. The findings indicate that pore pressure estimates are influenced by the overburden pressure gradient and the formation depth for both the resistivity and sonic transit time models. Similarly, the results for fracture pressure reveal a significant dependence on pore pressure, overburden pressure gradient, and stress allocation. Unfortunately, we couldn't demonstrate the Matthew and Kelly model due to the unavailability of the matrix stress coefficient. In conclusion, this study suggests that Eaton's model is the most suitable due to its ease of application. Furthermore, we recommend future research efforts to develop entirely new pore pressure and fracture pressure forecasting models tailored to the specific characteristics of the Niger Delta region.