Fan-Shaped Well Pattern Fracturing Simulation Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no appropriate experimental device available for simulating the well layout of a fan-shaped well pattern, making it impossible to conduct fracturing experiments and lacking theoretical guidance for actual fracturing operations.
Innovation Solution
An experimental apparatus and method are provided to simulate fracturing of a fan-shaped well pattern, comprising a stratum simulator and a wellbore simulator group with control valves and perforation simulators, allowing for the simulation of multi-stage fracturing scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional horizontal well patterns are used, then multi-stage fracturing can be performed with parallel wells, but fan-shaped well pattern simulation cannot be conducted due to lack of appropriate experimental device
Solution Approach 1:
The experimental apparatus is divided into multiple independent wellbore simulators (first wellbore simulator, second wellbore simulator, etc.), each capable of representing different wells in the fan-shaped pattern. This segmentation allows the system to simulate complex well patterns while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus transitions from simulating simple parallel well arrangements to three-dimensional fan-shaped well patterns by introducing angular relationships between wellbores. The wellbore simulators are positioned at different angles relative to the maximum horizontal principal stress direction, enabling simulation of the spatial complexity inherent in fan-shaped patterns.
2Productivity
If fan-shaped well pattern is implemented, then reservoir reserves can be maximized in limited sites, but no theoretical guidance exists due to lack of experimental data
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus creates physical copies of the fan-shaped well pattern geometry and stress conditions in a controlled experimental environment. By replicating the essential features of fan-shaped well patterns (angular arrangement, multi-stage fracturing sequences) in the laboratory, the system generates empirical data that serves as theoretical guidance for field applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The experimental setup enables observation and measurement of fracture propagation patterns, pressure responses, and fluid flow characteristics under controlled fan-shaped well configurations. This feedback from experiments provides quantitative data that informs and refines theoretical models for fan-shaped well pattern development.
3Reliability
If multiple wellbore simulators are used to simulate fan-shaped pattern, then realistic fracturing scenarios can be simulated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each wellbore simulator is designed as a multi-functional component that can represent different wells at different stages of fracturing. The simulators can be configured to represent various well positions, orientations, and fracturing sequences within the fan-shaped pattern, reducing the need for entirely separate apparatus for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The wellbore simulators are arranged and configured within a unified experimental chamber and pressure system, with smaller functional units (perforation simulators, fracturing stages) nested within the larger wellbore simulator structures. This nested organization manages complexity by hierarchically structuring the system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The experimental apparatus and method enable realistic simulation of fracturing scenarios for fan-shaped well patterns, improving and refining existing fracturing and layout techniques, and providing more experimental basis and theoretical guidance for actual oilfield fracturing.
Implementation Method 1
apply a three-dimensional stress confining pressure on the materials poured into the stratum simulator to simulate a stratum pressure
Implementation Method 2
A first end of the first wellbore simulator and a first end of the second wellbore simulator are respectively located outside the chamber and respectively provided with a control valve
Implementation Method 3
the second end of the first wellbore simulator is extended into the chamber and provided with a first perforation simulator
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an experimental apparatus and method for simulating fracturing of a fan-shaped well pattern. The apparatus includes a stratum simulator and a wellbore simulator group. The stratum simulator includes a chamber into which materials are poured to simulate a stratum environment. The wellbore simulator group at least includes a first wellbore simulator and a second wellbore simulator. A first end of the first wellbore simulator and a first end of the second wellbore simulator are respectively located outside the chamber and provided with a control valve. A second end of the first wellbore simulator is extended into the chamber and provided with a first perforation simulator, a second end of the second wellbore simulator is extended into the chamber and passes through the corresponding first perforation simulator, and the second end of the second wellbore simulator is provided with a second perforation simulator.