Petroleum Systems Model Scenarios for Vulcan Sub-basin Offshore Western Australia

A 2004 petroleum systems model by Fuji et al. was simulated using PetroMod 3D V.10 software to create several 3D scenarios. The modeling results confirm generation timing and present-day maturity for different sub-basins, with key differences arising from the use of PhaseKinetic models for source rock formations and subsequent fluid compositional predictions.

Use Cases

• Compare source rock transformation ratios and bulk generation rates across the Central Swan Graben and Cartier Trough kitchen areas.
• Analyze predicted accumulation locations and column heights against proven field locations to assess model resolution.
• Evaluate exploration risk by examining the dependence of untested, predicted accumulations on fault closure.
• Assess variations in predicted petroleum distribution and accumulated fluid physical properties across different modeled scenarios.

Strengths

• Model is based on an established petroleum systems model from 2004, providing a foundational geological framework.
• Results include specific predictions for untested accumulation locations, offering exploration hypotheses.
• Analysis covers distinct sub-basin areas like the Central Swan Graben and Cartier Trough for comparative maturity.

Limitations

• Model resolution is described as low, leading to potentially overestimated accumulation sizes and column heights.
• Key risks like source rock definition, trap definition, and cap rock properties are noted as largely unconstrained.
• Primary data format is report-based (HTML, PDF), limiting direct computational analysis without manual extraction.

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia Data

Collection Method

3D simulation of a published petroleum systems model using PetroMod 3D V.10 software.

Time Range

Model based on 2004 study; present-day maturity assessed.

Freshness

null

Geography

Vulcan Sub-basin, Offshore Western Australia, including Central Swan Graben and Cartier Trough.