Limited penetration perforating methods for oilfield applications

Abstract

A method for completing an unconventional subterranean formation include the steps of positioning a perforating tool in a section of the deviated wellbore that intersects the unconventional formation,forming at least one opening in a production structure without substantially penetrating into a surrounding formation by firing the perforating tool, and fracturing the formation by pumping a fracturing fluid through the at least one opening. The perforating tool may include shaped charges that have a charge case, a liner disposed in the charge case, and an explosive material filling an interiorof the charge case.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to equipment and methods for well completions. Background technique

[0002] Oil and gas production wells typically include a string of casing within the wellbore that penetrates subterranean oil or gas deposits. The casing string adds to the integrity of the wellbore and provides a path for production fluids to reach the surface. Typically, well completions involve cementing the casing to the face of the wellbore and then perforating the formation by detonating shaped charges. When detonated, the shaped charge produces a jet that passes through the casing and concrete and creates a short-distance tunnel into the adjacent formation. Perforated tunneling is the main cause of tortuosity in unconventional hydraulically fractured reservoirs. Perforation may also create microfractures in the nearby wellbore, which may create a loss zone that is carried away from the desired zone for fracturing where the natural fractures oc...

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