A Clearer Image
A clear and unambiguous image of the reservoir is the cornerstone to successful exploitation of an oil or gas asset. It is easy to forget this when confronted by the avalanche of technologies involved in exploration and production (E&P) today. In a time of high oil prices, attention has naturally been galvanized towards extracting the proven assets as quickly and efficiently as possible. The science of drilling is itself a massive field of enterprise, as is the business of logging, testing, production, completion, etc. etc. The enormous costs at the "business end" of the entire E&P sequence should reinforce the fact that all this investment is wasted unless we drill in the right location in the first place! Such a decision is entirely dependent upon the availability of a precisely focused and noise-free seismic image of the reservoir - a clearer image!
Many factors contribute to the ultimate quality of a seismic image. Naturally, the physical properties of the Earth must be conducive to the recording of coherent seismic events from each layer of geologic strata. When properly planned and executed, the best seismic survey will embrace a close synergy between the way that the acquisition effort is parameterized and the way that the subsequent data processing effort is parameterized. Unique geological features and settings demand unique seismic acquisition and processing solutions. PGS follows these basic tenets in their pursuit of "a clearer image". Best geophysical practice guides each acquisition and processing decision. High Density 3D (HD3D) was developed to reduce the compromises made in the sampling of seismic data during acquisition, thus providing the best platform for high fidelity data processing and imaging. Multi-Azimuth and Wide-Azimuth Towed Streamer technologies were developed to overcome barriers to clear seismic images presented by complex geological features between the surface of the Earth and the target. HD3D-4D acquisition was developed to yield the best survey repeatability in the face of all the operational challenges in real-world environments. Each acquisition solution will necessitate a customized processing solution. For example, Wide-Azimuth acquisition typically necessitates wave equation pre-stack depth migration.
The key issue presented here is that PGS will treat each new seismic survey as presenting unique challenges, for which unique solutions must be found. These solutions will be established by thorough pre-survey planning, done in concert with the owner of the asset in question. Second, PGS has developed an industry-leading portfolio of operational solutions for even the most intensive acquisition and processing efforts. A large global fleet of high performance seismic vessels, headed by six incomparable Ramform vessels. Supported by a global network of engineering, research and technical groups, each collectively focused upon streamlining operational efficiency, quality and safety. A global array of "megacentre" data processing resources, each operating many thousands of parallel PC cluster nodes. And, naturally, hundreds of technical specialists who are dedicated to harnessing all these resources to deliver the clearest seismic images, on time, every time.
At PGS we passionately pursue the vision that "a clearer image" is the foundation for all success in exploration, appraisal, drilling and exploitation. The important aspect for our customers is to understand how we go about achieving a clearer image in each survey location. At PGS we want to reinforce the value of "a clearer image" by a tangible success in your efforts.
