Simulating Ground Subsidence due to Oil and Gas Extraction

Ground subsidence can occur when changes in the pore pressure of underground reservoir strata lead to plastic deformation in the strata, which in turn modify the pore fluid flow. Due to the fact that subsidence can affect the operability of equipment on the ground as well as safety of buildings and structures, it is crucial that it is accurately predicted and kept within limits. The simulation of the flow of fluids within the reservoir is a complex problem in and of itself that requires sophisticated tools specifically designed to address flow complexities; however, these tools may not be able to include deformation in the rock and the effect on the fluid flow. Abaqus is well suited for modeling inelastic deformations in the rock, but is not able to simulate the multiphase complexities in the fluid flow regime. Check out the tech brief below to learn more about how Abaqus/Standard and ECLIPSE work together to simulate ground subsidence.

Enjoy!

-Ashley