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Nonplanar fracture propagation from a horizontal wellbore: Experimental study

Journal Article · · SPE Production and Facilities
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/24823-PA· OSTI ID:276196

This paper presents experimental results related to hydraulic fracturing of a horizontal well, specifically the nonplanar fracture geometries resulting from fracture initiation and propagation. Experiments were designed to investigate nonplanar fracture geometries. This paper discusses how these nonplanar fractures can be responsible for premature screenout and excessive treatment pressure when a horizontal well is hydraulically fractured. Reasons for unsuccessful hydraulic fracturing treatments of a horizontal well are presented and recommendations to ensure clear communication channels between the wellbore and the fracture are given.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
276196
Journal Information:
SPE Production and Facilities, Journal Name: SPE Production and Facilities Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 11; ISSN 1064-668X; ISSN SPRFEZ
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English