Proppant Distribution Control in Non-Newtonian Fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downhole stimulation treatments face challenges in efficiently redistributing proppants within non-Newtonian fluids during hydraulic fracturing, leading to uneven proppant distribution and reduced conductivity in subterranean formations, due to the complexity of fluid flow and particle transport in non-Newtonian systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of customized fluid flow models that account for non-Newtonian properties, using a new form of Stokes number and drag law to simulate and optimize proppant flow, allowing for real-time prediction and control of proppant distribution through perforations, and the use of pre-calculated dependencies to enhance computational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluid flow models are used to simulate proppant flow in non-Newtonian fluids, then the simulation can be performed with standard tools, but the accuracy of proppant distribution prediction deteriorates due to inability to account for non-Newtonian fluid properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the Stokes number parameter to account for non-Newtonian fluid behavior by incorporating power-law indices (n and m) that characterize the fluid's shear-thinning or shear-thickening properties. This parameter change enables accurate prediction of proppant distribution in non-Newtonian fluids while maintaining the overall structure of conventional flow models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a specialized Stokes number as an intermediary parameter that bridges conventional flow modeling and non-Newtonian fluid behavior. This intermediate parameter allows the model to capture complex fluid-particle interactions without requiring complete redesign of the flow simulation framework.
2Measurement precision
If customized fluid flow models with non-Newtonian properties are developed, then proppant distribution prediction accuracy improves, but computational efficiency deteriorates due to increased model complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculations to establish pre-calculated dependencies between the modified Stokes number, power-law indices, and proppant distribution characteristics. These pre-calculated relationships enable rapid prediction during actual stimulation treatments without requiring time-consuming real-time simulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified predictive relationships that copy the essential behavior of complex non-Newtonian fluid flow through dimensionless numbers and empirical correlations. These simplified models capture the key physics while reducing computational requirements for real-time application.
3Stability of the object's composition
If proppant flow is optimized using modified Stokes number and drag law, then proppant distribution uniformity improves, but the complexity of calculating flow rates increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the complex non-Newtonian flow equations into dimensionless forms using modified Stokes numbers and power-law indices. This parameter transformation simplifies the calculation process while maintaining the ability to predict uniform proppant distribution through the perforations.
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 enables more precise and efficient distribution of proppants, improving fracture conductivity and hydrocarbon production by optimizing proppant flow rates and collection efficiency, even in complex flow conditions, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of downhole stimulation treatments.
Implementation Method 1
introducing a high viscosity fracturing fluid carrying proppant particles into the subterranean formation
Implementation Method 2
flow of proppant or other materials (e.g., diverter) injected into a subterranean formation
Implementation Method 3
controlling redistribution of suspended particles in non-Newtonian fluids during stimulation treatments
Data Source
AI summary
System and methods for controlling suspended particle redistribution during stimulation treatments. Fluid flow in a wellbore is simulated for a stimulation treatment to be performed along a section of the wellbore within a subterranean formation, based on a flow model associated with the wellbore. Based on the simulation, dimensionless parameters characterizing a flow of suspended particles within a treatment fluid to a fractured area of the formation via at least one perforation along the section of the wellbore are calculated. A collection efficiency of the suspended particles within the fluid is determined, based on the dimensionless parameters. The collection efficiency is used to calculate a flow rate of the suspended particles to the fractured area of the formation via the perforation. The flow rate is used to estimate an amount of the suspended particles to be injected into the wellbore during the stimulation treatment along the wellbore section.