Stimulation by explosives. Pt. 3. Liquid detonated while moving through formation

Journal Article · Sun Nov 01 00:00:00 EST 1970 · World Oil; (United States)

OSTI ID:5959901

Olson, C T

A new well-stimulation process, involving a safe liquid explosive mixed on location from nondetonable ingredients, has been developed by Petroleum Technology Corp. It is called the Astro-Flow process and involves pumping material into a well under pressure and detonating it within the formation. The material is pumpable and can be injected into producing zones at pressures up to 10,000 psi and temperatures exceeding 200$F. The blast occurs after the explosive is distributed throughout the established fracture system. Surface equipment includes a process control bunker and explosive handling unit, plus an enclosed well blowdown and protection system. The use of Astrolite explosive and the process techniques permits the following: (1) safe emplacement of explosive away from the well bore; (2) powerful energy release in thin sheets within fracture systems; (3) high pressure injection for fracture initiation and spotting; (4) precise detonation while explosive is in motion; and (5) wellhead containment to prevent pollution and blowouts. Well tests in a 1,200-ft sandstone doubled the increase over hydraulic fracturing. The process is not offered commercially at this time. How the system works is described in detail.

• Research Organization: Petroleum Technology Corp
• OSTI ID: 5959901
• Journal Information: World Oil; (United States), Vol. 171:6
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
EXPLOSIVE FRACTURING
EVALUATION
FIELD TESTS
WELL STIMULATION
CHEMICAL EXPLOSIVES
EXPLOSIVE STIMULATION
FLUID INJECTION
WELL COMPLETION
COMMINUTION
EXPLOSIVES
FRACTURING
STIMULATION
TESTING
020300* - Petroleum- Drilling & Production
450100 - Military Technology
Weaponry
& National Defense- Chemical Explosions & Explosives