Significant Impact the Length of Hydraulic Fracturing on Well Production

Yashar AK, Safavi K, Kamran A and Javidan N

Published on: 2024-08-03

Abstract

"Formation damage" is the term used to describe the reduction in the natural permeability of the reservoir rock near the wellbore. This can occur as a result of various processes that hinder the efficiency of extracting oil, water, or gas from the formation. Operations such as production, drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and work overs can lead to formation damage, which is an undesirable issue both operationally and financially. Hydraulic fracturing is a well stimulation technique employed to enhance productivity. It aids in facilitating the movement of crude oil and natural gas by creating artificial channels through the rock pores, which may have become obstructed at certain locations. This enables the extraction of oil and gas from the well, making it available for further utilization. During hydraulic fracturing, a mixture of water and sand, referred to as fracturing fluid or pumping fluid, is injected into the formation under high pressure. Numerous activities can cause damage near the wellbore, resulting in a decrease in productivity. For instance, the drilling process itself can harm the formation. Solids and fluids present in drilling fluids, along with fine particles generated during drilling, can infiltrate the formation, reducing its permeability and the ability of oil and gas to flow towards the wellbore. Hydraulic fracturing enhances productivity by establishing a conduit into the reservoir. The length of the hydraulic fracturing operation has a direct impact on well production. An increase in the length of hydraulic fracturing leads to a subsequent increase in oil and gas production from the well. However, there is a point at which further lengthening of the hydraulic fracturing does not contribute to improved well production