Wellsite and Operations Geology
Geothermal, Geologic Hydrogen, Helium, Lithium brines, Oil & Gas, Carbon Storage.
Wellsite Geology
Wellsite Geology, also known as Wellsite Geological Services, is a field of geology that involves the study of rock formations and subsurface conditions at a wellsite during drilling operations. Wellsite Geologists play a crucial role in the exploration and extraction of subsurface energy resources from the Earth’s crust. Below are some key aspects that our Wellsite Geology services entail:
- On-site Monitoring: Wellsite Geologists work directly at the drilling site. They monitor and analyze the geological formations encountered during drilling in real-time, as well as the daily operational and drilling activities. This role is supported with the presentation of Daily Geological Reports (DGR’s).
- Formation Evaluation:
a. Lithological, Stratigraphic Interpretation: To gather information about the subsurface, Wellsite Geologists analyze drill-cuttings as soon as these are retrieved on surface, to determine the lithology and stratigraphic sequence of the formations drilled. They also base their interpretation on real-time logs (LWD), drilling parameters, and offset information.
b. Formation fluids Identification: Based on indications observed in cuttings, including fluorescence, as well as gas detection and analysis systems; the Wellsite Geologist can determine and/or infer the type of formation fluid and its observable characteristics. They also base their evaluation on real-time logs (LWD). - Preparation of Logs and Field Reports:
a. Daily Geological Reports (DGR): A detailed daily report is produced. This document provides relevant operational and geological data and information.
b. Real-time Lithology Logs: A lithological log based on real-time acquisition and interpretation of data, is produced daily while drilling.
c. Composite Logs: Upon completion of drilling, a Composite Log with enhanced information, including wireline logging is presented.
d. Photography of the drilled lithology: Wellsite Geologists are expected to produce photography of the drilled lithology as drilling progresses.
e. End-of-Section Summary Presentations: Wellsite Geologists are expected to produce presentation summaries at the end of each section drilled.
f. End of Well Report (EOWR): An End of Well Report (EOWR) with relevant information and data regarding the well is produced. This report also includes lessons learned, conclusions and recommendations. - Core Analysis: Well drilling often involves the retrieval of rock cores from the subsurface. Wellsite geologists examine these cores to understand the composition, structure, and properties of the rocks. This involves the production of detailed descriptions, photography and presentations.
- Wellsite Services Supervision: The Wellsite Geologist is the direct supervisor of the Mudlogging, M/LWD and Wireline Logging services. Wellsite geologists compile and evaluate the data provided by these service companies, which is the basis for providing onsite geological interpretation and for the decision-making process regarding the well’s viability, while ensuring that they comply with the expected data and service quality standards.
- Communication: Wellsite Geologists communicate their findings and interpretations to the Operations Geologist, Drilling Supervisors, Drilling Engineers, Petrophysicists, and other members of the subsurface team. Also, they alert to the wellsite team about expected lithology and potential formation related risks that could affect drilling performance. Clear communication is essential for making informed decisions during the drilling process.
- Data Management: Wellsite Geologists are responsible for collecting, organizing, and managing vast amounts of geological data generated during drilling operations, and in conjunction with wellsite service companies that acquire real time data, such as Mudlogging, M/LWD and Wireline Logging. This data is crucial for future exploration and development activities.
- Safety Compliance: Wellsite Geologists play a role in identifying and mitigating geological risks that could impact the safety of drilling personnel and the environment.
- Problem Solving: Wellsite Geologists are often involved in addressing drilling challenges such as wellbore stability issues, unexpected pressure changes, and other geological and technical problems that may arise during drilling.
In summary, Wellsite Geologists play a vital role at well-sites and to the overall success of a drilling project, by providing real-time geological information that guides drilling operations. Also, by ensuring compliance of data acquisition, service performance by third party contractors, and safety standards.
Operations Geology
An Operations Geologist, is a professional in the field of geology who typically works from an office setting, while liaising with vendors and overseeing the geological advance during drilling operations. This role is crucial for ensuring the efficiency, costs savings, acquisition of geological data, and success of drilling operations. Here are key responsibilities and aspects associated with the role of an Operations Geologist:
- Planning and Logistics, and Optimization of Costs: Operations Geologists work regularly with both on-site and off-site teams, as well as service vendor providers that serve to the subsurface team (Mudlogging, M/LWD, Wireline Logging and Coring services); with the goal of achieving cost efficiency and the optimization of planning and logistics in connection with the operations.
- Real-time Monitoring of Wellsite Geology and Drilling Operations: Operations Geologists work in close communication with the Wellsite Geologist and Services Companies that operate at the Wellsite, while acquiring geological data as it becomes available to make informed decisions within the subsurface and drilling teams.
- Geological Data Collection and Data Acquisition Optimization: In conjunction with the Wellsite Geologist are responsible for collecting geological data obtained from various sources, including Mudlogging, M/LWD, Wireline Logging and Coring. The Operations Geologist conducts regular meetings with Mudlogging, M/LWD, Wireline Logging and Coring service providers, in order to stablish parameters and guidelines for the conduction of their respective services, ensuring that they comply with the expected data and service quality standards.
- Collaboration with Drilling Team: Operations Geologists, in conjunction with the Wellsite Geologist, collaborate closely with Drilling Supervisors, Drilling Engineers, and other members of the drilling team. They provide geological insights that aid in optimizing drilling parameters, addressing drilling challenges, and ensuring the safety and success of the drilling operation.
- Data Reporting: In collaboration with the Wellsite Geologist, the Operations Geologists are responsible for generating timely and accurate reports on the geological aspects of the wellsite. These reports may include information on lithology and formation characteristics, formation fluid shows, and any deviations from the drilling plan.
- Risk Assessment: They contribute to risk assessment by identifying potential geological hazards and advising on strategies to mitigate risks associated with drilling operations.
- Safety Compliance: Operations Geologists ensure that drilling operations comply with safety and environmental regulations. They play a role in identifying and mitigating geological risks that could impact the safety of drilling personnel and the environment.
- Data Management: They manage and organize geological data collected during drilling, ensuring that it is properly documented and archived for future reference and analysis.
In summary, Operations Geologists are essential members of the subsurface and drilling teams, providing geological expertise and guidance prior and during drilling operations, with a focus on data acquisition provided from the wellsite, cost efficiencies, logistics, and liaison with service providers that acquire and provide data to the subsurface team. Their contributions are crucial for the success of the drilling activities.
With several decades of combined field experience, primarily in the Oil & Gas industry, in high-profile projects, and in diverse locations across the globe, our consultants can provide you with the most accurate and diligent Operations and Wellsite Geology services for suiting your drilling and on-site geological evaluation needs.
