A new approach to evaluate the performance of partially propped hydraulic fractures
Date
2013
Authors
Bortolan Neto, L.
Khanna, A.
Kotooussov, A.
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Conference paper
Citation
2013 APPEA Conference and Exhibition, 2013 / pp.355-362
Statement of Responsibility
L. Bortolan Neto, A. Khanna and A. Kotousov
Conference Name
Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association Conference (2013 : Brisbane, QLD)
DOI
Abstract
A new approach for evaluating the performance of hydraulic fractures that are partially packed with proppant (propping agent) particles is presented. The residual opening of the partially propped fracture is determined as a function of the initial fracture geometry, the propped length of the fracture, the compressive rock stresses, the elastic properties of the rock, and the compressibility of the proppant pack. A mathematical model for fluid flow towards the fracture is developed, which incorporates the effects of the residual opening profile of the fracture and the high conductivity of the unpropped fracture length. The residual opening profile of the fracture is calculated for a particular case where the propp ant pack is nearly rigid and there is no closure ofthe fracture faces due to the confining (compressive) stresses. A sensitivity study is performed to demonstrate the dependence of the well productivity index on the propped length of the fracture, the propp ant pack permeability, and the dimensionless fracture conductivity. The sensitivity study suggests that the residual opening of a fracture has a significant impact on production, and that partially propped fractures can be more productive than fully propped fractures. Application ofthis new approach can lead to economic benefits.
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