Wellbore Stability
tools to obtain the operational window (pore pressure, in-situ stress, collapse and fracture) in design
Analytical simulation to analyze wellbore stability by estimating the proper mud weight window – considering fractures, collapses and pore pressure – choosing the best drilling direction and avoiding time-dependent issues in order to mitigate drilling risks.
Below is a short description of the key research areas. For further details or new researches, feel free to contact us
Vertical Stress Magnitude
Estimation of overburden by integrating density logs or pseudo-density from acoustic/seismic data.
Rock Strength
Estimation of mechanical properties such as unconfined compressive strength (UCS), Poisson Ratio, Young Modulus, etc.
Pore Pressure
Pore pressure generating mechanisms and prediction using trendlines methods (acoustic, resistivity or drilling data) or centroind/buoyancy effects calculations, and also, reservoir estimations based on field history.
Minimum Horizontal Stress
Determination of the least principal stress from LOTs, XLOT, Minifrac, etc., considering depletion, if necessary.
Maximum Horizontal Stress
Analysis of wellbore failure (breakouts and induced fractures) from image logs to estimate the magnitude of the maximum horizontal stress or by using field data of ratio between stresses.
Mud window
Estimate required mud weight based on pore pressure, overburden gradient and rock failure envelope.
Our Customers
Petrobras has been funding this researsh as a cooperative term with PUC-Rio since 2010.
Would you like to start a project with us?
Feel free to contact us for any details of ongoing projects or new researches. Our group would be happy to share our expertise and contribute to your project.