Reconfigurable Conductor Network for Fracture Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating fluid and proppant transport behavior during hydraulic fracturing in shale formations lack effective simulation tools to accurately model the complex fracture networks and dynamics, leading to inefficiencies in proppant distribution and fracture conductivity.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable network of conductor segments is used to simulate fracture matrices, allowing for the testing of fluid and proppant transport through a laboratory system that mimics the orientation and geometry of actual underground fractures, using sensors to monitor dynamic parameters and analyze proppant distribution and settling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a reconfigurable network of conductor segments is used to simulate fracture matrices, then measurement precision and analysis capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is divided into multiple conductor segments that can be independently configured and reconfigured. Each segment represents a fracture element, allowing the system to model complex fracture networks by assembling simpler modular components. This segmentation enables precise measurement of proppant distribution in different fracture zones while managing complexity through standardized modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductor segments are designed to be reconfigurable, allowing the fracture network geometry to be dynamically adjusted between tests. The segments can be repositioned, reoriented, and reconnected to simulate different fracture patterns, orientations, and connectivity scenarios. This dynamic reconfigurability enables the same physical system to study multiple fracture conditions without requiring separate fixed systems for each scenario.
2Reliability
If dynamic parameters are monitored using sensors during fluid transport, then reliability of treatment evaluation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors are positioned throughout the conductor network to continuously monitor dynamic parameters such as fluid pressure, flow rate, and proppant concentration during transport. This feedback data is used to evaluate fracture conductivity and proppant distribution in real-time, providing reliable assessment of hydraulic fracturing treatment effectiveness. The sensor measurements feed back into the analysis system to validate and refine the fracture network model.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system is designed to automatically collect, process, and analyze data from the sensor network during fluid transport operations. The system self-monitors its own performance parameters and provides automated evaluation of fracture conductivity and proppant placement, reducing the need for manual intervention and external measurement equipment while maintaining high reliability of results.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conductor segments are oriented in different directions to simulate various fracture geometries, then adaptability of the testing system is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductor segments are designed as universal modular units that can serve multiple functions depending on their orientation and connection configuration. Each segment can be oriented in different directions and connected to various other segments to simulate different fracture geometries, making a single set of standardized components adaptable to multiple fracture network scenarios. This universality allows the system to study vertical, horizontal, and angled fractures using the same basic building blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
By dividing the fracture network into discrete conductor segments, the system enables flexible assembly of different fracture configurations. Each segment represents a manageable unit that can be independently positioned and connected, allowing operators to build complex three-dimensional fracture networks from simpler modular elements. This segmentation makes the adaptable configuration process more systematic and manageable.
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 detailed analysis of proppant behavior and fracture conductivity, optimizing hydraulic fracturing treatments by simulating various fracture designs and conditions, thereby enhancing treatment effectiveness and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
flowing test fluids may have constituents that include mixtures of viscosified and/or non-viscosified fluids (e.g., liquids) mixed with proppants through the network
Implementation Method 2
measure proppant distribution and volume (or mass) during and after treatment within various parts of the simulated fracture network after the proppant is transported into the network by the introduced fluid/s
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed that may be used for laboratory evaluation of the effectiveness of fluids and/or proppants such as those for hydraulic fracturing of oil and gas wells using a test system network. A test system network may include a reconfigurable network of conductor segments that may be arranged to simulate a fracture network matrix that exists downhole within an underground formation during a hydraulic fracturing treatment. Test fluids, including proppant-less as well as proppant-laden test fluids, may be flowed through the conductor segment network of a test system to measure, among other things, fluid and/or proppant distribution and proppant volume (or mass) during and after treatment within various parts of the test system network after the proppant is transported into the network by the introduced test fluid/s.