Seismic Velocities and Depth Conversion - SVDC

Seismic data is acquired in time - the time taken for the sound to travel from the source to reflectors and to return to receivers. However, wells are drilled in depth, not time. Variations in velocity can distort the depth, size, and shape of possible reservoirs. Therefore, conversion from time to depth is needed for a clear picture of the prospect and the risks involved. This course will teach you how to use velocity information and structural inputs to build a consistent velocity model and/or calibrate ones that have been created during seismic data processing. In the last decade or two, large strides have been made in seismic processing, especially in PreStack Depth Migration. Routinely used advanced migration algorithms now require more accurate velocity models. Better tools have been developed to ascertain the velocity, and more time and effort are now spent in velocity analysis by the seismic processors. This has greatly improved current velocity models. The interpreter, however, still needs to know how the models are made, how to quality control them, and how to modify and correct them when needed. This class is designed for the interpreter so that he or she understands the theory and practice of how to estimate depths from older time-migrated data, as well as how to quality control (QC) and calibrate newer PSDM data. Also covered in this class are when to reprocess the data and how to communicate with the processor in order to produce the best velocity model and depth image. As a foundation class, the instruction starts with the basics and proceeds to more complex topics. The student should have a basic understanding of geophysics such as offered in PetroSkills' Basic Geophysics course. Little advanced math (calculus) is used, but algebra and lots of diagrams are applied to explain the needed concepts. "Vivid presentation of the topics, complicated problems were explained very well and easy to understand." - Participant, Germany