An overview of frac packs: A technical revolution (evolution) process

Journal Article · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1998 · JPT, Journal of Petroleum Technology

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/39232-JPT· OSTI ID:580771

Ellis, R C

Several completion methods are the current options typically considered when completing oil and gas wells in unconsolidated sand reservoirs. These include (1) rate control, where the flow rate is held below the sand-production threshold or below erosional limits handling produced sand at surface; (2) screen-only completions, which are common to horizontal and extended-reach wells; (3) underreamed open-hole gravel packs; (4) cased-hole gravel packs; (5) in-situ resin treatments; (6) high-rate water packs; (7) water fractures; (8) frac packs; and (9) screenless frac packs. Frac packing is a developing sand-control alternative, and use of this method continues to increase in both absolute numbers and percentage of all sand-control completions implemented. Frac-pack pumping strategies represent a definitive break in the long history of sand-control developments. Most early procedures categorically avoided pumping strategies that break down unconsolidated formations. Discarding the don`t-break-down paradigm has resulted in a new generation of sand-control concepts. This paper provides a brief overview of frac-pack evolution and discusses how growing acceptance of the method is creating a revolution in well-completion practices where sand control is required.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• OSTI ID: 580771
• Journal Information: JPT, Journal of Petroleum Technology, Journal Name: JPT, Journal of Petroleum Technology Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 50; ISSN 0149-2136; ISSN JPTJAM
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
03 NATURAL GAS
FRACTURING
NATURAL GAS WELLS
OIL WELLS
PACKINGS
PROPPING AGENTS
SAND CONSOLIDATION
WELL COMPLETION