Hydraulic Fracturing Pressure Prediction Using Time-Dependent Rheology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic fracturing methods fail to accurately predict pressure evolution and fracturing fluid behavior due to oversimplification of visco-elastic effects and time-dependent rheology, particularly with cross-linked polymer fluids and high proppant concentrations, leading to inefficient energy use and suboptimal fracturing processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of mass and momentum balance equations coupled with a time-dependent rheological model to optimize fracturing fluid pressure evolution at wellbore and perforation points, calculating a pressure-to-stress ratio to ensure sufficient fracturing fluid pressure for creating fractures, while minimizing pumping energy and fluid volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional hydraulic fracturing methods are used with oversimplified rheological models, then the fracturing process can be implemented with simpler calculations, but the pressure evolution prediction accuracy deteriorates and energy efficiency worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from simplified rheological models to time-dependent rheological models that incorporate visco-elastic parameters. This allows accurate prediction of pressure evolution in cross-linked polymer fluids with high proppant concentrations while maintaining computational feasibility through optimized calculation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure calculation methods with a comprehensive rheological model that incorporates time-dependent visco-elastic behavior. This substitution enables accurate prediction of pressure evolution by accounting for fluid elasticity and time-dependent properties rather than relying on simplified mechanical models.
2Reliability
If higher pumping energy is used to inject fracturing fluid, then fracture creation effectiveness improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through iterative calculations that use mass and momentum balance equations coupled with time-dependent rheological models. The system continuously adjusts pressure predictions based on fluid behavior feedback, allowing optimization of pumping energy to achieve effective fracture creation with minimal energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing comprehensive pressure evolution predictions before actual fracturing operations. The optimized fracturing fluid design and pumping parameters are determined in advance through detailed rheological modeling, enabling efficient fracture creation without excessive energy consumption during the actual operation.
3Productivity
If more fracturing fluid volume is injected, then fracture propagation and hydrocarbon flow improvement increases, but fluid consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes fracturing fluid parameters including composition, viscosity, and rheological properties to achieve effective fracture propagation with reduced fluid volumes. By modifying fluid parameters and incorporating time-dependent rheological behavior, the system maximizes hydrocarbon production enhancement while minimizing fracturing fluid consumption.
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
This approach reduces pumping energy requirements, optimizes fracturing fluid usage, and enhances the efficiency and safety of hydraulic fracturing operations by providing a more accurate predictive analysis of complex fracturing fluid behavior.
Implementation Method 1
oversimplification of visco-elastic effects and time-dependent rheology
Implementation Method 2
time-dependent rheological model to predict the pressure evolution
Implementation Method 3
mass and momentum balance equations coupled to a time-dependent rheological model
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method is disclosed for optimizing hydraulic fracturing in a subterranean formation having at least one perforation coupled to a wellbore. For each of a number of points along the at least one perforation, the pressure of a fracturing fluid is calculated based on a first pressure and a time-dependent rheological model that includes at least one of elasticity, viscoplasticity, and structural development of the fracturing fluid. A ratio of the pressure of the fracturing fluid to a fracture stress of the at least one perforation is calculated. When the ratio is greater than one, inject the fracturing fluid, at the first pressure, into the wellbore and through the at least one perforation, creating pressure-induced fractures in the perforation.