THE DERIVATIVE

We have discussed the advantages and drawbacks of type

curves:
• Advantages: One single curve can deal with a whole test
• Drawbacks: log-log representation in type curve could not show
small relative pressure variation

Methods using the pressure derivative take advantage of the

advantages of the type curve representation and counteract the
drawbacks of the logatithmic representation
These methods are based on an observed fact: in a well test the
pressure variation is more significant than the pressure itself. This
is illustrated by the fact that it is the slope of the semi-log straight
lines that is used to get information on the reservoir in
conventional methods
The pressure derivative as represented by D. Bourdet is
calculated in relation to the time function of radial flow in the
transient regime
 PROPERTIES OF THE DERIVATIVE

The pressure derivative is expressed as

follows with the radial flow time function:

All type curves therefore

have the 0.5 ordinate
straight line as an
asymptote during radial
flow
 WELLBORE STORAGE EFFECT

Pressure derivative is expressed by

Therefore, the derivative like

the pressure has as an
asymptote the unit slope
straight line that passes
through the origin of the
coordinates on a log-log
graph.
DIAGNOSIS
 ANALYSIS WITH TYPE CURVES
D. Bourdet’s type curves with a derivative for homogeneous
reservoirs are shown in figure below where the set of curves
similar to Gringarten’s with the addition of the derivative of each
curve
Derivative type curves have the
following remarkable properties
ANALYSIS METHOD
VERTICAL MATCHING
VERTICAL + HORIZONTAL MATCHING
 RESERVOIR KH
Permeability is calculated based on the
value ∆P/st corresponding to the
stabilization of the derivative
The value of this derivative expressed
in dimensionless term is known, it is
equal to 0.5
 WELLBORE STORAGE EFFECT
Wellbore storage can be
calculated if the coordinates of a
point located on the slope 1
straight line are known: ∆p1 and
∆t1
 SKIN

The skin can be calculated if

the coordinates of a point
located on the semi-log straight
line are known: ∆ps, ∆ts.
CONCLUSIONS