Survey Merge

Integrating Multi-Survey Seismic Data into a Consistent Dataset

Challenges in Merging Multi-Survey Seismic Data

A seismic data processing project often involves many overlapping surveys. These surveys can be acquired with different acquisition parameters, including source and receiver type, source and receiver sampling, recording azimuth, and offset ranges.

A merged stack dataset, before phase matching is applied. The arrows show degradation of the reflector continuity in the overlap zone, which is due to the destructive interference of stacking together traces that are out of phase.
After applying the proper phase matching the reflector continuity is greatly improved in the overlap zone

Ensuring Consistency Across Surveys

It is critical to normalize the amplitude, phase, and statics of each survey before merging them together.

A merged stack dataset, before phase matching is applied. The arrows show degradation of the reflector continuity in the overlap zone, which is due to the destructive interference of stacking together traces that are out of phase.
After applying the proper phase matching the reflector continuity is greatly improved in the overlap zone

Survey Merge Workflow

Applying Deterministic Corrections

First, correcting the data using any deterministic parameters available, such as vibroseis sweep or receiver response.

Refraction and Reflection Statics

Second, running refraction and reflection statics on the combined data.

Residual Amplitude, Timing, and Phase Matching

Finally, correcting for residual amplitude, timing or phase differences by using a statistical cross-correlation method.

Quality Control in Overlap Areas

Careful QC is required at overlap areas to ensure an optimal merge.

Time slices of individual surveys in a multi-survey merge are analyzed to determine the best overlap areas to use for the cross-correlation phase analysis
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