State-of-the-art fracturing in the North Sea

Conference · Sun Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1995

OSTI ID:160654

Domelen, M.S. Van; Jacquier, R C; Sanders, M W

This paper will focus on recent advances in hydraulic fracturing technology with emphasis on North Sea applications. Five generalized applications that will benefit most from advances in technology have been identified. Because North Sea oil and gas field development requires the use of platform facilities for wellhead and processing equipment, deviated and horizontal wells are often used to effectively drain the reservoirs. Many of these wells require fracture stimulation. The success rate of such wells has increased significantly in recent years as a result of the following: Researchers better understand how fractures initiate and grow; Pre-treatment diagnostic techniques have improved substantially; Engineers better understand how completion design affects well performance. With improved understanding of post-frac well performance, engineers can evaluate the feasibility of developing a reservoir through fractured, horizontal wells. In addition to a review of the advances in HPHT technology that would apply to North Sea applications, this paper will identify improvements necessary before these techniques are applied in the North Sea. Hydraulic fracturing is being used more frequently (1) in high-permeability reservoirs to improve the overall profitability of the project, and (2) as an alternative to traditional sand control applications in soft, weakly consolidated reservoirs. The effect of hydraulic fracturing operations on the North Sea environment must be recognized. The advances in fluid design and post-treatment flowback procedures that minimize these effects are discussed. 78 refs., 19 figs.

• OSTI ID: 160654
• Report Number(s): CONF-950501--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
03 NATURAL GAS
ENHANCED RECOVERY
HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
NATURAL GAS WELLS
NORTH SEA
OIL WELLS
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
WELL STIMULATION