Seismic Velocities and Depth Conversion

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. First all input velocity data must be quality controlled and a calibrated velocity model created. Then the model is used to convert time horizons and seismic time data to depth. Both pre-stack and post-stack migrated data are considered. Participants are introduced to some of the velocity problems encountered in depth-migrated data, now more widely available.
The training starts with the basics and proceeds to more complex topics. The participant should have a basic understanding of geophysics such as offered in Petro Skills’ Basic Geophysics course. Little advanced math (calculus) is used, but algebra and lots of diagrams are applied to explain the needed concepts.