Method for selectively orienting induced fractures in subterranean earth formations
The orientation of hydraulically induced fractures in relatively deep subterranean earth formations is normally confined to vertical projections along a plane parallel to the maximum naturally occurring (tectonic) compressive stress field. It was found that this plane of maximum compressive stress may be negated and, in effect, reoriented in a plane projecting generally orthogonal to the original tectonic stress plane. This is accomplished by injecting liquid at a sufficiently high pressure into a well-bore fracture oriented in a plane parallel to the plane of tectonic stress for the purpose of stressing the surrounding earth formation in a plane generally orthogonal to the plane of tectonic stress. With the plane of maximum compressive stress reoriented due to the presence of the induced compressive stress, liquid under pressure is injected into a second well bore disposed within the same zone but at a location in the earth formation laterally spaced from the fracture in the first well bore. This effects a fracture in the second well bore along a plane generally orthogonal to the fracture in the first well bore. (6 claims)
- Assignee:
- Energy Res and Develop Adm
- Patent Number(s):
- US 4005750
- OSTI ID:
- 6557910
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Method for selectively orienting induced fractures in subterranean earth formations
Process for the selective orientation of fractures created in underground geologic formations