How can you manage the cost and time of core analysis programs in oil and gas?

1 Plan your objectives

Before you start any core analysis program, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you will use the results. Define your objectives, scope, and budget for each core analysis project, and align them with your reservoir characterization and development goals. This will help you prioritize the most relevant and useful tests, avoid unnecessary or redundant experiments, and allocate your resources efficiently.

2 Choose the right methods

Depending on your objectives, you may need to perform different types of core analysis methods, such as routine core analysis (RCA), special core analysis (SCAL), or advanced core analysis (ACA). Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and requires different levels of expertise, equipment, and time. You should choose the methods that best suit your data needs, quality standards, and cost constraints. For example, you may opt for RCA if you only need basic porosity and permeability data, or SCAL if you need more detailed information on fluid flow and recovery mechanisms.

3 Manage your samples

One of the biggest challenges in core analysis is to ensure the quality and integrity of your core samples. Core samples can be affected by various factors, such as drilling fluids, handling procedures, storage conditions, and preservation methods. These factors can alter the physical and chemical properties of the core, and introduce errors or uncertainties in your measurements. To prevent or minimize these effects, you should follow the best practices for core sampling, handling, and preservation, such as using proper coring tools, sealing and labeling the samples, and maintaining the reservoir pressure and temperature.

4 Collaborate with experts

Core analysis is a complex and multidisciplinary field, and you may not have all the skills, knowledge, or equipment to perform it in-house. In that case, you may benefit from collaborating with external experts, such as core analysis laboratories, consultants, or service providers. These experts can offer you access to state-of-the-art technologies, techniques, and software, as well as guidance and support throughout your core analysis program. However, you should also be careful to choose the right partners, who can meet your expectations, deliverables, and deadlines, and who can communicate effectively with you and your team.

5 Analyze your data

The final step in your core analysis program is to analyze your data and extract meaningful insights from it. This can be a daunting task, as you may have to deal with large volumes of data, diverse formats, and complex models. To make this process easier and faster, you should use appropriate data management and analysis tools, such as databases, spreadsheets, or software applications. These tools can help you organize, visualize, and interpret your data, as well as integrate it with other sources of information, such as logs, seismic, or production data. This way, you can enhance your understanding of your reservoir, and make better decisions for your oil and gas operations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?