Detection of regional fractures effect in the Bibihakimeh oilfield based on the relative frequency of fractures method, Southern Dezful Embayment, Iran

Geometric analysis of fractures in calcareous reservoirs containing hydrocarbon resources is of particular importance. Knowing the location and distribution of fractures in such reservoirs can play an effective role in providing field development plans, determining suitable sites for new drilling and reducing exploration costs. This study was carried out to evaluate the relative frequency of fractures method to identify regional fractures in the Bibihakimeh oilfield. The required data have been extracted by analyzing the underground countor maps in the Bibihakimeh oilfield. Then, the accuracy of the fracture map prepared based on this method was evaluated with the relevant data of reservoir parameters in the studied oilfields. Data on mud loss, thermal gradient, overburden thickness, total organic carbon and production index confirm results obtained from the relative frequency of fractures in the center of the oilfield. Comparison of the results with the map of basement faults in the study area shows that the performance of these regional fractures has caused curvature development and fractures concentration in some parts of the Bibihakimeh oilfield. These regional fractures act as a conduit for heat transfer from the depth to the surface, which in turn has led to a sharp increase in thermal gradient and production in wells in the central parts of the studied oilfield.