Dynamic effects of fault modeling on stair-step and corner-point grids

Abstract Fault modeling has become an integral element of reservoir simulation for structurally complex reservoirs. Modeling faults in general major implications the grid. In turn, grid quality control is very important order to attain accurate results. We investigate dynamic effects using stair-step (SSG) and corner-point (CPG) approaches fault from perspective performance forecasting. have performed a number convergence grid-type sensitivity studies variety simple, yet intuitive faulted flow problems with gradually increasing complexity. also explored added value multipoint flux approximation (MPFA) method over conventional two-point (TPFA) increase accuracy results obtained on CPGs. Effects seal grid-resolution been briefly examined. For simple geometries, both SSG CPG can be used similar conjunction pillar-grid approach. This evidenced by fact that converge identical solutions. yield different more geometries. Simulation approach converged solution relatively fine SSGs. However, only provides geometry volumes when coarse. On other hand, non-orthogonality errors are increasingly evident models CPGs such cannot addressed refinement. It observed MPFA partially addresses discretization non-orthogonal grids but total perspective. transport related still evident. Grid behaviors quite or without (i.e., dedicated fault-zone use scaled-up factors) test cases, we it difficult achieve due increased heterogeneity underlying problem.