Pre-Stimulation Formation Testing for Hydraulic Stimulation Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optimizing hydraulic stimulation in low permeability hydrocarbon reservoirs, such as shale gas reservoirs, lack proven techniques for designing well spacing, completion selection, fluid type, and pumping schedules, relying largely on trial and error.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for predicting properties of earth formations by conducting pre-stimulation tests to estimate flow properties and changes in permeability, using instruments to measure geomechanical parameters, and modeling the stimulation response to design effective stimulation procedures, which includes determining stress states, characterizing fractures, performing pre-stimulation pumping tests, and evaluating fracture properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If trial and error methods are used for optimizing hydraulic stimulation design, then some level of production improvement may be achieved, but time and resources are wasted through repeated unsuccessful attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by conducting pre-stimulation tests before the actual hydraulic stimulation to measure formation properties, determine stress states, and characterize fractures. This preliminary characterization allows optimization of stimulation design parameters (well spacing, completion selection, fluid type, pumping schedule, proppant type) based on actual formation data rather than trial and error, thereby reducing optimization time while improving productivity
2Productivity
If comprehensive pre-stimulation testing and modeling are conducted, then stimulation design accuracy and productivity improve, but device complexity and measurement requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-functional instruments and devices that can perform multiple measurements and tests within the formation. The stimulation system is designed to integrate various functions (stress measurement, fracture characterization, permeability testing, fluid injection, pressure monitoring) into a coordinated system, reducing overall complexity while enabling comprehensive pre-stimulation evaluation to improve productivity
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 improves hydrocarbon production by optimizing stimulation procedures, enhancing permeability, and predicting ultimate recovery, allowing for better design of stimulation protocols and well placement to increase productivity and economic recovery.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus measures pressure and flow rate during pre-stimulation pumping tests to determine formation response and estimate flow properties
Implementation Method 2
The apparatus is configured to stimulate and/or fracture the formation by injecting a fluid into the formation at a series of constant flow rates
Implementation Method 3
determining stress states, characterizing fractures, performing pre-stimulation pumping tests, and evaluating fracture properties
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
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AI summary
A method of predicting a property of an earth formation includes: injecting a fluid into at least one pre-existing feature of the formation at a plurality of constant pressures or flow rates; measuring a response from the at least one pre-existing feature at each of the plurality of constant pressures or flow rates; and estimating at least one property of the at least one pre-existing feature based on the response. An apparatus for predicting a property of an earth formation is also disclosed.