| Title | 3D Visualization of Geothermal Wells Directional Surveys and Integration with Digital Elevation Model(DEM) |
|---|---|
| Authors | Wesley Koros |
| Year | 2012 |
| Conference | ARGeo |
| Keywords | ASTER DEM, Directional wells, Geothermal, GIS |
| Abstract | High spatial resolution topographic data is essential in assisting volcanic field work, for volcano morphology analyses, and for hazard modeling of volcanic flow processes. The stereoscopic capability of ASTER data provides the opportunity to derive DEMs at a spatial resolution of 15m for the many regions lacking accurate topographic maps. For visualization, a three dimensional model DEM of the geothermal field with the directional wells and other geographical phenomena were incorporated into the GIS program. The three dimensional model viewers were used with directional geothermal well featuring in the Greater Olkaria geothermal field. The three dimensional modeling of geothermal wells was done using the deviation surveys data by linear referencing. The tool was developed in an Excel-based program developed using a Visual Basic for Application (VBA) procedures (macros) which is the Excel visual Basic Editor (VBE). Geographic Information System (GIS) technology was used to model geothermal well directional survey data. This aids in visualizations suggesting inter-relationships between well bore productivity. By running the data through a model in ArcGIS, 3D maps can be created showing where well bores corkscrew their way down through the earth’s crust. This phenomenon is difficult to see on a two-dimensional map or cross-sectional view. The 3D map is more intuitive to the KenGen team in exploration and production who are accustomed to thinking in three dimensions. This model is of interest to potential drillers because it shows the way through which a well bore goes down. With respect to this model, geological rock units can be incorporated in the model to show the rock unit penetrated by a particular geothermal well bore. |