Prepack technique using fine sand improves results of fracturing and fracture acidizing treatments

Conference · Wed Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1975

OSTI ID:6286040

Miller, B D; Warembourg, P A

Dowell Division of Dow Chemical Co. describes the possible mechanisms by which 100-mesh sand used in a prepack stage greatly improves the results of stimulation treatments in various types of formations. Some of the observations made when this fine sand is used in fracturing and acidizing treatments are a higher sustained production, lower injection rates, higher concentration of conventional proppant, fewer screen-outs, treatment retention in the zone, and omission of fluid-loss additives. Dowell outlines the mechanisms operating to provide these advantages as follows: (1) The sand acts as a nondamaging fluid-loss control agent in secondary fractures; (2) It provides a permeable channel through the secondary fracture system; (3) Excess sand is carried to the extremity of the fracture, thus providing conductivity as far as the fracture penetrates; (4) It increases fluid viscosity and aids in continued fracture propagation; (5) The buildup of 100-mesh sand at the fracture tip causes a pressure differential that may initiate a new fracture or result in additional growth of the fracture vertically. Dowell presents current techniques using this sand and discusses case histories showing the excellent productivity increases obtained with the prepack technique.

• OSTI ID: 6286040
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

02 PETROLEUM
020300* -- Petroleum-- Drilling & Production
ACIDIZATION
COMMINUTION
FRACTURING
MODIFICATIONS
OIL WELLS
PACKINGS
SAND
STIMULATION
WELL STIMULATION
WELLS