Magnetic induction technique for mapping vertical conductive fractures: theory of operation

Technical Report · Sat Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1978

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6636107· OSTI ID:6636107

Utilization of a hot dry rock geothermal resource requires circulation of a fluid (water) through fractures in the rock. The Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory is presently investigating the feasibility and economics of tapping this energy resource. Presently, the fractures in the rock are created by conventional hydraulic fracturing techniques. Accurate determination of the geometry of the fracture system is required so that boreholes may be drilled to complete the circulation system. The theory of a technique designed to map vertical conductive fractures located in resistive rock is presented. The technique is based on magnetic induction. Fracture thickness and strike can be determined from measurements made in a single borehole.

• Research Organization: Los Alamos Scientific Lab., NM (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-36
• OSTI ID: 6636107
• Report Number(s): LA-7333-MS
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
150901* -- Geothermal Engineering-- Drilling Technology & Well Hardware
150906 -- Geothermal Engineering-- Reservoir Stimulation & Extraction Technology
BOREHOLES
CAVITIES
COMMINUTION
CURRENTS
EDDY CURRENTS
ELECTRIC COILS
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
ELECTRIC LOGGING
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
FAILURES
FLUID FLOW
FRACTURES
FRACTURING
GEOMETRY
GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS
GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS
Geothermal Legacy
HOT-DRY-ROCK SYSTEMS
HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
INDUCTION LOGGING
MAGNETIC SURVEYS
MAPPING
MATHEMATICS
WELL LOGGING