Ground Coupling Matters—Surface Conditions Affect Vibrator Output and Seismic Data
In seismic prospecting, the integrity of data is a function of ground coupling quality. How well a geophysical vibrator interacts with the ground dictates how well the seismic energy is coupled into the subsurface. Anytime ground coupling is poor, despite the best instruments and processing available, loss of signal or waveform distortion can never be compensated for. Understanding the coupling physics and sensitivity to surface conditions is critical to reliable, high-fidelity seismic success. The Essential Science of Ground Coupling Ground coupling is mechanical geophysical vibrator-to-ground coupling during seismic acquisition. The vibrator applies controlled oscillating forces to the surface to convert it to seismic waves that propagate through units under the surface. Hard, firm contacts with minimum deformation or slipping at the interface are characteristics of the efficient transfer of energy. Surface material (loose rock, sand, gra...