Proppant Distribution Prediction between Perforation Clusters Using Fresh Water in a Horizontal Wellbore

Area of Science:

• Petroleum Engineering
• Reservoir Engineering

Background:

• Even proppant distribution in multistage, multicluster treatments is a significant challenge.
• Uneven distribution negatively impacts fracture conductivity and well productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an experimental correlation for forecasting proppant distribution in multistage, multicluster hydraulic fracturing.
• To provide insights for optimizing proppant distribution and improving well performance.

Main Methods:

• Utilized dimensional analysis with the Buckingham π-theorem.
• Developed experimental correlations using laboratory data from various proppant sizes, concentrations, and injection rates.
• Incorporated data from different perforation configurations.

Main Results:

• A new experimental correlation for proppant distribution was developed.
• The correlation can predict proppant distribution between perforation clusters.
• This aids in optimizing proppant placement for uniform distribution.

Conclusions:

• The developed correlation is essential for future hydraulic fracturing designs.
• It enables optimization of proppant distribution across multiple clusters.
• Facilitates uniform proppant distribution in multistage, multicluster horizontal wells.