Coring and core analysis

To gain an understanding of the composition of the reservoir rock, inter-reservoir seals and the reservoir pore system it is desirable to obtain an undisturbed and continuous reservoir core sample. Cores are also used to establish physical rock properties by direct measurements in a laboratory. They allow description of the depositional environment, sedimentary features and the diagenetic history of the sequence. 

In the pre-development stage, core samples can be used to test the compatibility of injection fluids with the formation, to predict borehole stability under various drilling conditions and to establish the probability of formation failure and sand production. 

Coring is performed in between drilling operations. Once the formation for which a core is required has been identified on the mud log, the drilling assembly is pulled out of hole. For coring operations a special assembly is run on drill pipe (Fig. 5.33) comprising a core bit and a core barrel. 

If a conventional core has been cut, it will be retrieved from the barrel on the rig floor and crated. It is common to do a lithologic description at this stage. To avoid drying out of core samples and the escape of light hydrocarbons some sections will be immediately sealed in a coating of hot wax and foil. 

Upon arrival in the laboratory the core will be sectioned (one third two thirds) along its 

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