A method for selection of optimum proppant in the Cotton Valley
Numerous laboratory tests on Cotton Valley core samples have been conducted that compare Ottawa sand and sintered bauxite in terms of their ability to perform as a propping agent under varying closure stresses. Computer simulation has also been used as an aid in selecting the optimum proppant type and pack configuration for a given fracture treatment. However, in spite of the information obtained from these sources, there remains some uncertainty as to the value of closure stress at which a high strength proppant should be incorporated into the fracture treatment design. Data obtained from Cotton Valley wells indicates that the producing rate was significantly reduced beyond the normal decline when a certain closure stress was reached. An examination of offset wells that experienced a lesser closure stress or were fractured with bauxite reveals that this abnormal decline is not present. This comparison indicates the fracture conductivity, and consequently the producing rate, were significantly altered as a result of sand crushing.
- Research Organization:
- Mitchell Energy Corp.
- OSTI ID:
- 5430574
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-830305-
- Journal Information:
- Soc. Pet. Eng. AIME, Pap.; (United States), Vol. SPE/DOE 11617; Conference: SPE symposium on low permeability, Denver, CO, USA, 14 Mar 1983
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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