1.

2 History matching
The main objective of history matching is to test, validate and improve a reserv
oir
simulation model. Reservoir modeling is one of the most viable and reliable ways
to
predict production performance and to understand reservoir flow mechanisms [Schi
ozer,
1999]. It is considered to be one of the most powerful predictive tools availabl
e to a
reservoir engineer [Ertekin et al, 2001]. A reservoir model is constructed by us
ing
geological and geophysical data from specific wellbores that penetrate a hydroca
rbon
reservoir. These data are in the form of well tests, seismic surveys, well log d
ata, etc.
However, a large majority of the reservoir properties remains unknown and there
are
many uncertainties. Consequently, the available data need to be adjusted for a s
imulation
model to accurately predict reservoir performance. Once a reservoir model is con
structed
based on available data, it must be tuned with known reservoir behavior, which i
s known
as history matching. History matching is used to adjust the proposed model until
simulation results match the observed data [Schiozer, 1999].
History matching can be either manual or automatic. Automatic history matching
uses computer logic to adjust reservoir engineering data rather than direct engi
neering
judgment. However, manual history matching is more widely used as it utilizes th
e
engineering judgment of experienced professionals on the field. History matching
3
attempts to determine parameters such as porosity, permeability and thickness by
matching the properties of each gridblock in a simulator model that result in si
mulated
well pressures and production data that match as closely as possible to those me
asured
during production [Dye et al, 1986]. An initial model that is developed using av
ailable
data does not generally match historical performance. Normally, there will be de
viations
from the historical performance and, as a result, adjustments to the reservoir s
imulation
model must be made so that there is an improved match. Once the historical produ
ction
data are matched, it indicates that the model approximates the actual reservoir
behavior.
The simulation model can then be used to more accurately predict the behavior of
the
reservoir as the hydrocarbons are being produced.
The final history-matched model is not unique. There may be several historymatch
ed
models that can provide equally acceptable matches to past reservoir
performance but may yield significantly different future predictions [Ertekin et
al, 2001].
However, a history-matched model gives a better understanding of the reservoir a
nd
clarifies uncertainties such as aquifer support, paths of fluid migration, commu
nication
barriers and depletion mechanisms. In addition, areas of by-passed reserves and

unusual
operating conditions can be more easily identified. Once the historical producti
on data
are matched, a much greater confidence can be placed in the predictions made wit
h the
model [Ertekin et al, 2001].