Geomechanics simulation using the FLAC3D™ connector

The FLAC3D simulation strip enables JewelSuite to integrate with the FLAC3D™ software, originally developed by Itasca. The following paragraphs contain descriptions of the forms and views found in the FLAC3D simulation strip (simulate > FLAC3D). The tools and inputs found here can be used to produce a full geomechanical simulation of a 3D mesh, the results of which can be imported directly back into JewelSuite, allowing you to visualize the results in the full context of the reservoir model.

The FLAC3D connector in JewelSuite supports first order tetrahedron meshes, with or without discontinuous properties (split compartments), and sets up a linear elastic case. The mesh and property selection on the Build Deck form will export a full deck that can be run in FLAC3D, including conversions to the right conventions in FLAC3D. The Import Results form will import results from a selected folder with results from the simulation folder. Create Pore Pressure is a tool to assist in setting up a pore pressure property everywhere in the model (combining a background pore pressure with true dynamic values inside the reservoir).

Important The FLAC3D functionality in JewelSuite is designed to set up a relatively basic simulation case. You can decide to make edits to the simulation deck externally (e.g., manually in a text editor or in FLAC3D itself), to model different behavior (e.g., different material models). Apply caution when doing such edits, in particular with regard to the output files produced by FLAC3D. The Import Results form is not a general FLAC3D importer but is designed to import FLAC3D outputs as set-up in the deck created by JewelSuite. Therefore, modifications to the output files (e.g., creating different output files or changing the output file names) may lead to unexpected behavior upon import.