Semianalytical Production Simulation of Complex Hydraulic-Fracture Networks

Document Type
Journal Paper
Authors
Wentao Zhou (Schlumberger) | Raj Banerjee (Schlumberger) | Bobby D. Poe (Schlumberger) | Jeff Spath (Schlumberger) | Michael Thambynayagam (Schlumberger)
Document ID
SPE-157367-PA
Source
SPE Journal
Volume
19
Issue
01
Pages
6 - 18
Publication Date
2013
Publisher
Society of Petroleum Engineers
Language
English
DOI
http://dx.doi.org/10.2118/157367-PA
ISSN
1086-055X
Copyright
2013. Society of Petroleum Engineers
Keywords
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Summary

The application of horizontal-well drilling and multistage fracturing hasbecome a norm in the industry to develop unconventional resources fromultratight formations. A complex fracture network generated in the presence ofstress isotropy and pre-existing natural fractures immensely extends reservoircontact and improves hydrocarbon production.

A semianalytical method is presented in this paper to simulate theproduction from such a complex fracture network. This method combines ananalytical reservoir solution with a numerical solution on discretized fracturepanels. The mathematics is briefly introduced. Numerous case studies arepresented, from a simple planar fracture to a real-field example from theBarnett shale. Production behavior and the key flow regimes are discussed.

With its simplicity, yet capturing the physics of the transient productionperformance, this approach provides an accessible tool for people from multipledisciplines in unconventional-resource development to rapidly evaluatetreated-well productivity and stimulation effectiveness.

File Size   2 MBNumber of Pages   13
References 1 

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