Petrophysical Evaluation of the Lower Rudeis Formation in Shukheir Bay Field, Gulf of Suez, Egypt Using Open-Hole Well-Logs

Abstract

The Shukheir Bay Field is located in the northern part of the Shukheir Marine Concession towards the southern part of the Gulf of Suez, about 300 km southeast of Cairo. It covers a shallow offshore water area of 5 km2 with a total area of 22.5 km2. The Rudeis sands in the Miocene sequence, which are widely distributed in the area, represent the main reservoir in the Shukheir Bay field. This study focuses on the clastic unit in the Lower Rudeis Formation usually referred to as the Lower Rudeis Sandstone. The petrophysical evaluation of this sand zone was conducted using a complete set of open-hole well-logs in three wells penetrating the formation. The lithologic composition is distinguished and identified as sand intercalated with shale, using tri and dia porosity cross plots. The shale distribution has been studied in both ways, amount and type. The amount is found to be relatively low to moderate, and the type is found to be mainly dispersed shale as indicated by the Thomas-Stieber model and the dispersed-laminated plot. The net-pay thickness also has a good value ranging from 39 m to about 42 m with high porosity (21%) and good oil saturation (76-94%). Both the vertical and lateral distributions of the petrophysical parameters are clarified, using the proper types of graphs. This research recommends drilling development wells in the central part of the study area, in addition to increase the exploration process towards the southwestern part.