Machine Learning-Based Real-Time Prediction of Formation Lithology and Tops Using Drilling Parameters with a Web App Integration

Abstract

The accurate prediction of underground formation lithology class and tops is a critical challenge in the oil industry. This paper presents a machine-learning (ML) approach to predict lithology from drilling data, offering real-time litho-facies identification. The ML model, applied via the web app “GeoVision”, achieves remarkable performance during its training phase with a mean accuracy of 95% and a precision of 98%. The model successfully predicts claystone, marl, and sandstone classes with high precision scores. Testing on new data yields an overall accuracy of 95%, providing valuable insights and setting a benchmark for future efforts. To address the limitations of current methodologies, such as time lags and lack of real-time data, we utilize drilling data as a unique endeavor to predict lithology. Our approach integrates nine drilling parameters, going beyond the narrow focus on the rate of penetration (ROP) often seen in previous research. The model was trained and evaluated using the open Volve field dataset, and careful data preprocessing was performed to reduce features, balance the sample distribution, and ensure an unbiased dataset. The innovative methodology demonstrates exceptional performance and offers substantial advantages for real-time geosteering. The accessibility of our models is enhanced through the user-friendly web app “GeoVision”, enabling effective utilization by drilling engineers and marking a significant advancement in the field.