The Permian Basin is notorious for its statics problems.  Near-surface complexity includes karsting, near-surface inversions, refractor shingling and refractor anisotropy.   Such complexity makes the estimation of refraction statics a challenging problem.  This presentation provides a collection of several 3D surveys from the Delaware and Midland Basins, discusses the challenges each presented, and shows the strategy that was finally taken to resolve the statics problems.  
Each dataset required very different and sometimes radical approaches.   

The paper discusses the concepts of refractor-driven versus first-break driven refraction statics, directional refractor behavior, and tying upholes to refraction solutions.  It presents an example of delay-time prediction used to pick “impossible” first breaks.   Delay-time versus tomographic solutions are discussed, including the strategies for refractor model construction.

Speaker Biography: Chuck Diggins, DownUnder Geosolutions (DUG)
Chuck Diggins began his career as Research Geophysicist with Western Geophysical in 1978.  Since then he has focused on development, training and services associated with reflection and refraction statics software at companies such as Green Mountain, Maverick, Renegade and XtremeGeo.  

Chuck has taught classes in 30 countries, consulted on statics issues worldwide, and provided statics services for both oil and geophysical companies.    He has also chaired several SEG technical sessions and workshops.  

Chuck recently served as Center Manager for Sterling Seismic Services' Houston office.  In 2015, Chuck and wife Yvonne Diggins created Statics Rocks, LLC, dedicated to all things statics:  services, consulting, teaching, programming, etc. 

In 2017, Chuck joined DownUnder Geosolutions (DUG) as Principal Geophysicist.  

Chuck lives in Louisville, Colorado and enjoys biking and photography.