The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR Core Analysis Training Course by Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical expertise required to perform, interpret and apply NMR Core Analysis for reservoir characterisation, petrophysical evaluation and production planning. The programme focuses on NMR core measurements, T2 relaxation analysis, pore size distribution, fluid typing, bound and movable fluids, and permeability estimation to improve the reliability of laboratory-derived reservoir properties.
Accurate core analysis is essential to understanding reservoir quality, fluid distribution and the characteristics that influence hydrocarbon recovery. Conventional core analysis provides important information about porosity, permeability and fluid saturation, but these measurements do not always provide sufficient detail about pore structures, fluid mobility and the distribution of fluids within complex reservoir systems. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance provides additional insight by measuring the response of hydrogen nuclei within pore fluids and analysing their relaxation behaviour. These measurements support a more detailed understanding of the pore system and the relationship between reservoir structure and fluid movement.
For oil and gas organisations, the ability to extract reliable information from core samples directly influences reservoir evaluation, formation characterisation and development decisions. NMR measurements provide valuable information about pore size distribution, fluid populations and the distinction between bound and movable fluids. When integrated with conventional core analysis, well logging and other petrophysical measurements, NMR data strengthens the interpretation of reservoir properties and supports more representative reservoir models.
However, obtaining meaningful results from NMR measurements requires more than operating laboratory equipment. Technical personnel must understand sample preparation, measurement conditions, instrument configuration, signal acquisition, relaxation mechanisms, data quality control and interpretation procedures. They must also recognise the influence of fluid composition, pore geometry, surface relaxation and measurement conditions on the resulting data. Incorrect interpretation of these factors leads to unreliable permeability estimates, misleading fluid classifications and inaccurate assessments of reservoir quality.
The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR Core Analysis Training Course addresses these technical requirements through an integrated examination of NMR measurement principles, laboratory workflows and practical interpretation techniques. Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops participants' understanding of how NMR measurements translate into meaningful petrophysical information. The programme examines T2 relaxation distributions, porosity determination, pore size distribution, fluid typing and permeability estimation, with particular attention to the relationship between laboratory measurements and reservoir conditions.
Participants explore the interpretation of T2 relaxation data and its application in identifying different fluid populations within core samples. They examine the relationship between relaxation time and pore characteristics, including the influence of surface relaxivity and fluid properties. The course also addresses the identification of bound and movable fluids, the interpretation of fluid volume distributions and the limitations associated with using NMR-derived parameters as direct indicators of pore size and permeability.
A further focus is the integration of NMR core measurements with conventional laboratory results and other reservoir evaluation data. Participants examine how NMR-derived porosity, fluid distributions and permeability estimates contribute to formation evaluation and reservoir characterisation. This integration helps technical teams distinguish between measurement observations, interpretation assumptions and calculated reservoir parameters.
The programme is particularly relevant to organisations operating in conventional and unconventional reservoirs, where reliable core-derived information supports reservoir modelling, field development and production optimisation. It strengthens the technical connection between laboratory specialists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers and subsurface management teams.
Through Institute For Oil & Gas Training, participants develop a structured approach to NMR Core Analysis that supports consistent laboratory practices, defensible interpretation and more effective communication of core analysis findings. The resulting capabilities contribute to improved reservoir understanding, stronger technical decision-making and more effective use of laboratory data throughout the asset lifecycle.
Explain the fundamental principles of nuclear magnetic resonance and their application to laboratory core analysis.
Describe the physical mechanisms governing nuclear spin behaviour, signal acquisition and relaxation measurements.
Identify the main components and operational functions of laboratory NMR core analysis equipment.
Apply appropriate sample preparation and conditioning procedures for reliable NMR measurements.
Understand the influence of fluid saturation, sample condition, temperature and measurement settings on NMR responses.
Interpret T1 and T2 relaxation behaviour and understand their significance in reservoir characterisation.
Analyse T2 relaxation distributions to evaluate pore systems and fluid populations.
Determine NMR-derived porosity from calibrated signal measurements.
Interpret pore size distribution information while recognising the influence of surface relaxivity and pore geometry.
Distinguish bound fluids from movable fluids using appropriate relaxation measurements and laboratory procedures.
Evaluate fluid typing techniques and understand the role of diffusion measurements in distinguishing fluid populations.
Apply established NMR permeability estimation approaches and assess their underlying assumptions.
Compare NMR-derived permeability estimates with conventional core laboratory measurements.
Identify measurement uncertainties, calibration requirements and potential sources of interpretation error.
Integrate NMR core measurements with routine core analysis, special core analysis and petrophysical datasets.
Communicate NMR interpretation results through structured technical reporting that supports reservoir engineering and asset management decisions.
The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR Core Analysis Training Course adopts an applied, industry-focused methodology that connects NMR measurement principles with the practical requirements of core laboratory operations and reservoir evaluation. Institute For Oil & Gas Training structures the programme around the technical workflows followed by core analysts, laboratory specialists, petrophysicists and reservoir engineers.
The delivery approach combines specialist technical presentations, laboratory workflow demonstrations, interpretation exercises, technical case studies, group discussions and real-world reservoir scenarios. These methods help participants understand the complete NMR analysis process, from sample preparation and measurement configuration to data interpretation and integration with conventional core analysis.
Technical presentations and specialist instruction establish the scientific and operational foundations of NMR Core Analysis. Participants examine nuclear magnetic resonance principles, hydrogen proton behaviour, longitudinal and transverse relaxation, measurement sequences and the factors affecting NMR signal response. Particular attention is given to understanding how T2 relaxation distributions reflect the interaction between pore fluids and the internal surfaces of reservoir rocks.
NMR measurement workflow demonstrations introduce the procedures involved in preparing core samples, establishing measurement conditions, acquiring signals and assessing data quality. Participants examine the importance of sample condition, fluid saturation, instrument calibration, temperature control and measurement consistency. These demonstrations establish the relationship between laboratory procedures and the reliability of the resulting measurements.
T2 relaxation interpretation exercises provide practical experience in examining relaxation distributions and identifying different fluid populations. Participants work through representative datasets to understand relaxation time distributions, signal amplitudes, cut-off selection and the interpretation of short and long relaxation components. The exercises also highlight the importance of understanding surface relaxivity and other influences before converting relaxation times into estimates of pore size.
Pore structure and fluid distribution case studies demonstrate how NMR measurements support reservoir characterisation. Participants examine relationships between relaxation behaviour, pore size distribution, porosity and fluid mobility. They assess how different pore systems influence measured responses and how NMR data contributes to identifying bound and movable fluids.
Permeability estimation exercises introduce established NMR-based approaches for estimating permeability from relaxation measurements and porosity information. Participants examine the assumptions behind commonly applied empirical models, the influence of calibration parameters and the importance of comparing estimated values with conventional laboratory permeability measurements.
Fluid typing and reservoir evaluation scenarios provide opportunities to assess NMR measurements in relation to different fluid populations and reservoir conditions. Participants examine the interpretation of water-filled, hydrocarbon-bearing and mixed-fluid systems, while recognising the limitations of relying exclusively on relaxation distributions for fluid identification.
Group exercises and technical discussions encourage participants to compare interpretation approaches, identify potential sources of measurement uncertainty and evaluate the implications of different analytical assumptions. These activities strengthen communication between laboratory and subsurface disciplines and promote consistent technical interpretation.
Integrated case studies bring the different elements together by examining how NMR core measurements complement routine core analysis, special core analysis and well logging information. Participants develop an understanding of how laboratory results support formation evaluation, reservoir modelling and development planning.
The methodology prioritises practical interpretation, technical reasoning and the application of measurement results to operational requirements. By combining scientific understanding with realistic laboratory and reservoir scenarios, Institute For Oil & Gas Training helps participants develop capabilities that transfer directly into professional core analysis and subsurface evaluation activities.
NMR Core Analysis provides oil and gas organisations with valuable information about reservoir pore systems, fluid distribution and petrophysical characteristics. Developing internal expertise in this analytical technique strengthens laboratory capabilities and improves the application of core-derived information in subsurface decision-making.
Organisations gain a more detailed understanding of reservoir pore structures, porosity distribution and fluid mobility. NMR measurements complement conventional core analysis and support the evaluation of reservoir heterogeneity. Improved interpretation enables subsurface teams to develop more representative reservoir descriptions and establish a stronger technical basis for development planning.
Permeability estimation is essential to reservoir modelling, production forecasting and flow assessment. The course strengthens understanding of NMR-based permeability models, their calibration requirements and their limitations. Organisations benefit from more effective evaluation of estimated permeability values through comparison with conventional laboratory measurements and other available reservoir data.
Distinguishing bound and movable fluids supports the evaluation of effective pore volume and potential fluid production. NMR-derived fluid distribution information helps technical teams assess pore accessibility and identify differences between fluids retained within smaller pore systems and fluids occupying larger, more connected pores. This improves the interpretation of reservoir storage and flow characteristics.
Consistent sample preparation, measurement configuration, calibration and quality control contribute to more dependable laboratory results. The programme strengthens organisational understanding of the factors influencing NMR measurements and the importance of documenting analytical conditions. Better control of these activities improves the comparability and repeatability of laboratory results.
NMR measurements provide greater value when interpreted alongside conventional porosity, permeability, saturation and other petrophysical results. The course promotes a structured approach to integrating different datasets, improving collaboration between core laboratories, petrophysics teams and reservoir engineering departments. This reduces the risk of making development decisions based on isolated measurements.
A stronger understanding of NMR interpretation helps organisations identify suitable measurements, recognise questionable results and focus further investigation on areas of uncertainty. This supports more efficient laboratory workflows, improves technical evaluation and strengthens the allocation of analytical resources.
Organisations benefit from personnel who can explain the assumptions behind NMR-derived parameters and communicate their implications clearly. This improves the technical review of reservoir properties, strengthens confidence in laboratory findings and supports informed decisions concerning reservoir development and production optimisation.
Developing internal NMR interpretation capabilities reduces dependence on a limited number of external specialists for routine technical evaluation. Participants establish a common understanding of measurement principles, interpretation limitations and reporting requirements, supporting knowledge transfer across laboratory and subsurface teams.
The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR Core Analysis Training Course strengthens the technical and professional capabilities of individuals involved in petroleum core analysis, petrophysics and reservoir evaluation.
Participants develop a deeper understanding of nuclear magnetic resonance principles and their practical application to reservoir rock characterisation. They gain the ability to explain how NMR signals originate, how relaxation behaviour relates to pore fluids and how measurement conditions influence the quality of analytical results.
The course develops practical interpretation skills in T2 relaxation analysis, enabling participants to examine relaxation distributions and identify meaningful characteristics of reservoir pore systems. They strengthen their understanding of pore size distribution, surface relaxivity and the relationship between relaxation times and fluid interactions within rock samples.
Participants also improve their ability to evaluate bound and movable fluids. They learn how NMR measurements support the interpretation of fluid populations, effective porosity and fluid mobility. This knowledge strengthens their contribution to reservoir quality assessments and formation evaluation activities.
Another important professional benefit is improved understanding of permeability estimation. Participants examine established NMR-based models, identify the parameters influencing calculated values and understand why laboratory calibration and comparison with conventional permeability measurements remain important.
The programme also develops analytical judgement. Participants become better equipped to recognise incomplete measurements, identify possible sources of uncertainty and distinguish direct measurement results from model-derived interpretations. This supports more responsible technical reporting and improves the quality of professional recommendations.
From a career perspective, the course strengthens the ability to work across core laboratory, petrophysics, reservoir engineering and subsurface disciplines. Participants gain technical knowledge that supports broader responsibilities in laboratory management, formation evaluation, reservoir characterisation and integrated asset studies.
Additional personal benefits include:
Greater confidence in discussing NMR measurement principles with laboratory specialists and subsurface professionals.
Improved ability to interpret laboratory datasets and explain their technical significance.
Stronger understanding of the relationship between pore structure, fluid distribution and reservoir flow properties.
Better preparation for technical reviews involving NMR-derived porosity and permeability.
Improved capability to evaluate laboratory procedures and measurement quality.
Stronger communication skills when presenting core analysis findings to multidisciplinary teams.
Increased professional versatility across core analysis, petrophysics and reservoir engineering activities.
Core Analysts: Professionals seeking to strengthen their understanding of NMR measurement procedures and core characterisation techniques.
Core Laboratory Specialists: Personnel responsible for laboratory testing, sample preparation, measurement quality and analytical reporting.
Petrophysicists: Specialists integrating NMR measurements with well log interpretation and reservoir evaluation.
Reservoir Engineers: Engineers requiring a stronger understanding of pore structure, fluid mobility and NMR-derived permeability.
Formation Evaluation Specialists: Professionals evaluating reservoir properties through laboratory measurements and well logging datasets.
Geologists and Reservoir Geologists: Specialists interpreting reservoir heterogeneity, pore characteristics and rock properties.
Rock Physics Specialists: Professionals examining relationships between rock structure, fluid properties and measured physical responses.
Special Core Analysis Specialists: Personnel involved in advanced laboratory evaluation of reservoir flow and fluid distribution characteristics.
Laboratory Supervisors and Managers: Managers responsible for laboratory operations, analytical procedures, quality control and technical reporting.
Petroleum Engineering Professionals: Engineers seeking to understand the application of NMR core measurements in reservoir development and production evaluation.
Subsurface Team Leaders: Senior technical professionals responsible for reviewing laboratory results and coordinating multidisciplinary reservoir studies.
Technical Consultants: Consultants providing specialist support in core analysis, reservoir characterisation and petrophysical evaluation.
This module establishes the scientific and technical foundations of NMR Core Analysis and explains how nuclear magnetic resonance measurements contribute to petroleum reservoir characterisation. Participants examine the behaviour of hydrogen nuclei in magnetic fields, the generation of NMR signals and the relaxation mechanisms that provide information about fluids within reservoir rocks.
The module also introduces laboratory NMR equipment, measurement configurations and the factors influencing signal quality. Emphasis is placed on understanding the relationship between rock properties, fluid characteristics and the measured NMR response.
Establishes internationally recognised requirements for laboratory competence and reliable testing activities.
Addresses the importance of suitable measurement equipment, calibration and technically valid procedures.
Supports the evaluation of measurement traceability and the reliability of laboratory results.
Provides a quality framework for laboratories performing specialised analytical measurements, including NMR core analysis.
Explain the fundamental principles of nuclear magnetic resonance.
Describe how hydrogen nuclei generate measurable NMR signals.
Differentiate between T1 and T2 relaxation mechanisms.
Explain the purpose of CPMG measurement sequences.
Identify the main components of laboratory NMR equipment.
Understand the influence of measurement settings on signal acquisition.
Recognise the importance of calibration and measurement quality.
Relate NMR measurement principles to petroleum reservoir characterisation.
Reliable NMR Core Analysis begins with appropriate sample preparation and controlled measurement procedures. This module examines the laboratory workflows required to prepare reservoir rock samples, establish suitable fluid conditions and obtain representative NMR measurements.
Participants explore the influence of sample preservation, cleaning, drying, saturation and fluid selection on measured responses. The module also addresses measurement configuration, acquisition parameters and quality control procedures. Particular attention is given to the relationship between sample preparation and the reliability of subsequent porosity, fluid distribution and relaxation interpretations.
Published by the American Petroleum Institute, API RP 40 provides historical technical guidance on conventional core analysis procedures.
Its coverage includes core handling, preservation, screening, sample preparation, fluid saturation, porosity and permeability determination.
The document provides useful historical reference material when understanding established petroleum core laboratory workflows.
API RP 40 was withdrawn on 19 February 2021 and is not a current active standard. Its procedures are treated as historical technical guidance rather than a current compliance requirement.
Identify suitable core samples for NMR measurements.
Explain the importance of sample preservation and preparation.
Understand cleaning, drying and saturation procedures.
Evaluate the influence of sample fluid conditions on NMR responses.
Identify appropriate measurement parameters for laboratory analysis.
Explain the importance of temperature and instrument configuration.
Recognise common sources of measurement inconsistency.
Apply quality control principles when reviewing acquired NMR data.
Understand the importance of documenting sample preparation and measurement conditions.
This module focuses on the interpretation of T2 relaxation measurements and their application to understanding reservoir pore systems. Participants examine how transverse relaxation behaviour reflects interactions between pore fluids and rock surfaces and how relaxation distributions provide information about pore environments.
The module develops an understanding of the relationship between T2 relaxation times, surface-to-volume ratios, surface relaxivity and pore characteristics. Participants explore the interpretation of relaxation distributions, the identification of different pore populations and the limitations of converting NMR relaxation times into direct pore size estimates.
Establishes a recognised method for evaluating pore size distribution and porosity using mercury intrusion porosimetry.
Provides a complementary reference technique for comparing pore structure information obtained through different analytical methods.
Addresses the relationship between applied pressure and mercury penetration into accessible pores.
Supports comparative evaluation of pore characteristics while recognising that mercury porosimetry and NMR measure different physical properties.
Helps laboratories understand the importance of method-specific assumptions when comparing pore size distribution results.
Interpret T2 relaxation distributions from NMR core measurements.
Explain the relationship between relaxation times and pore characteristics.
Understand the influence of surface relaxivity on T2 measurements.
Evaluate the contribution of different pore populations to NMR responses.
Interpret NMR-derived pore size distribution information.
Explain the principles of NMR porosity determination.
Identify the limitations associated with short T2 measurements.
Assess the influence of measurement settings on pore system interpretation.
Compare NMR-derived pore information with complementary laboratory measurements.
This module examines how NMR measurements contribute to identifying fluid populations and evaluating fluid mobility within reservoir rocks. Participants explore the interpretation of bound and movable fluids, the significance of relaxation distributions and the use of laboratory conditioning procedures to distinguish different fluid volume components.
The module also introduces advanced fluid characterisation techniques, including diffusion-sensitive measurements and combined T1-T2 and D-T2 analysis. Participants examine how these techniques provide additional information when conventional T2 relaxation distributions alone are insufficient to distinguish fluids with overlapping relaxation characteristics.
The Society of Petrophysicists and Well Log Analysts published a technical paper in 2024 addressing procedures for NMR rock core analysis.
The guidance discusses conventional T2, T1, T1-T2 and D-T2 measurements.
It addresses sample preparation, sample saturation, experimental settings, measurement calibration and data analysis.
It examines the application of NMR measurements to porosity, irreducible water, permeability, pore structure and oil saturation estimation.
It provides useful technical guidance for improving measurement consistency and comparability between laboratories.
This publication is a technical guideline rather than a formal regulatory standard.
Explain the principles of NMR fluid characterisation.
Differentiate between bound and movable fluid components.
Interpret Bound Volume Irreducible and Free Fluid Index measurements.
Understand the significance of clay-bound water in reservoir evaluation.
Evaluate the influence of T2 cut-off selection on fluid classification.
Explain the application of centrifugation in fluid mobility assessment.
Identify the limitations of conventional T2-based fluid typing.
Understand the application of diffusion-sensitive NMR measurements.
Explain the value of combined T1-T2 and D-T2 analysis.
Integrate fluid distribution information into reservoir characterisation.
The final module brings together the measurement and interpretation techniques covered throughout the programme. Participants examine how NMR-derived porosity, T2 relaxation distributions and fluid volume information support permeability estimation and integrated reservoir evaluation.
The module focuses on established empirical permeability models, calibration requirements and the comparison of NMR-derived estimates with conventional laboratory measurements. Participants also examine how NMR results contribute to formation evaluation, reservoir modelling and technical reporting, with emphasis on understanding analytical limitations and communicating results appropriately.
Provides an internationally recognised framework for laboratory competence and the reliability of testing results.
Establishes requirements for technical procedures, equipment, calibration and measurement validity.
Addresses the importance of evaluating uncertainty and maintaining appropriate laboratory records.
Supports consistent documentation and reporting of analytical findings.
Provides a relevant quality management reference for laboratories producing NMR-derived porosity and permeability estimates.
Explain the principles of NMR-based permeability estimation.
Differentiate between Coates and SDR permeability models.
Understand the role of porosity and T2 relaxation parameters in permeability calculations.
Identify the parameters requiring calibration for empirical models.
Compare NMR-derived permeability estimates with conventional core measurements.
Recognise the influence of pore structure and lithology on calculated permeability.
Evaluate the limitations of NMR-based permeability correlations.
Integrate NMR measurements with routine and special core analysis results.
Apply NMR information to reservoir quality assessment.
Prepare structured technical interpretations and reports.
Communicate measurement uncertainty and interpretation assumptions.
Use integrated NMR results to support reservoir engineering and formation evaluation decisions.
Upon successful completion of the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR Core Analysis Training Course, attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training.
The certificate recognises participation in the programme and completion of its professional training requirements. Attendees must satisfy the course attendance requirement of at least 80% of the total scheduled training to qualify for the Certificate of Completion.
Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.
NMR Core Analysis is a laboratory technique that uses nuclear magnetic resonance measurements to evaluate pore fluids and reservoir rock characteristics. It provides information about porosity, T2 relaxation distributions, pore size distribution, fluid mobility and permeability estimation. Oil and gas organisations use these measurements alongside conventional core analysis to improve reservoir characterisation and formation evaluation.
The course covers NMR measurement principles, sample preparation, laboratory procedures, T1 and T2 relaxation analysis, pore size distribution, fluid typing, bound and movable fluids, and NMR-based permeability estimation. It also examines Coates and SDR permeability models, measurement quality control and the integration of NMR results with conventional core analysis.
The programme is suitable for core analysts, laboratory specialists, petrophysicists, reservoir engineers, formation evaluation specialists, geologists, petroleum engineers and special core analysis professionals. Laboratory supervisors, technical managers and subsurface team leaders also benefit from understanding how NMR-derived information supports reservoir evaluation and operational decisions.
Yes. The course includes applied interpretation exercises, technical case studies and measurement workflow demonstrations. Participants examine T2 relaxation distributions, porosity determination, fluid populations, pore characteristics and permeability estimation. They also learn to assess measurement quality, recognise interpretation limitations and compare NMR-derived results with conventional core analysis data.
Attendees who successfully complete the training requirements receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training. Participants must meet the minimum attendance requirement of 80% of the total scheduled course duration to qualify for the certificate.
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