Well Path Steering Perpendicular to Vertical Fractures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multiaxial electromagnetic induction methods are ineffective in detecting and characterizing fractures in subsurface formations, particularly in unconventional production wells where fractures are inclined or perpendicular to the wellbore, due to limitations in differentiating naturally occurring fractures from induced ones and insensitivity to fracture aperture.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for drilling a wellbore that involves determining the direction of vertical fractures before drilling and adjusting the well path to intersect them perpendicularly, using a directional drilling device coupled with a drill string and multiaxial electromagnetic well logging instruments to communicate fracture directions for steering the well path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If borehole imaging instruments are used to detect fractures, then shallow fracture detection capability is improved, but the ability to differentiate naturally occurring fractures from induced ones deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from shallow, surface-level borehole imaging to deep, multi-azimuthal electromagnetic induction measurements. By using triaxial induction tools that measure electromagnetic fields in three orthogonal directions, the system probes deep into the formation (hundreds of feet) rather than imaging only the immediate borehole wall, thereby accessing fractures at greater depths while avoiding contamination from shallow induced fractures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multiaxial electromagnetic induction measurements as an intermediary between the borehole and the fractures. These measurements detect eddy currents induced in the formation and fractures, providing indirect but reliable information about fracture characteristics without direct contact with the borehole wall, thus avoiding the problem of induced fracture interference.
2Length of stationary object
If multiaxial induction methods are used to detect fractures, then deep fracture detection capability is improved, but effectiveness in unconventional production wells deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic well-steering system that continuously adapts the wellbore trajectory based on real-time fracture detection data. The multiaxial induction measurements are performed during drilling operations, and the detected fracture orientations are used to dynamically adjust the drilling direction to maintain optimal perpendicular intersection with fractures, thereby maintaining high detection effectiveness throughout the unconventional well drilling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the drilling system by adjusting the wellbore orientation and azimuth based on detected fracture characteristics. By modifying the drilling parameters (direction, angle, trajectory) in response to measured fracture properties, the system optimizes fracture intersection geometry for unconventional well configurations where fractures may be inclined or perpendicular to the wellbore.
3Productivity
If well path is drilled parallel to bedding plane for unconventional production, then production efficiency is improved, but fracture intersection angle deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary fracture detection and characterization measurements before completing the wellbore trajectory. By identifying fracture orientations and locations in advance using multiaxial induction tools, the system can pre-plan and adjust the well path to achieve optimal perpendicular intersection angles with anticipated fracture zones, thereby maintaining both high production efficiency and optimal fracture geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control system where multiaxial induction measurements continuously provide information about fracture orientations encountered during drilling. This real-time feedback is used to adjust the wellbore trajectory and drilling parameters to maintain optimal perpendicular intersection with fractures, thereby resolving the contradiction between drilling parallel to bedding planes for production efficiency and achieving optimal fracture intersection angles.
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 enhances the detection and characterization of fractures, improving well productivity by accurately identifying fracture locations and apertures, even in challenging geological conditions, and allows for more effective exploration and extraction of hydrocarbons.
Implementation Method 1
multiaxial electromagnetic induction measurements made in wellbores drilled through subsurface formations
Implementation Method 2
Very thin fractures having large planar extent filled with electrically non-conductive drilling fluid (e.g., oil based drilling mud—'OBM') may block induced eddy currents from flowing in the formation
Data Source
AI summary
A method for drilling a wellbore includes drilling a well along a path substantially along a bedding direction of a selected subsurface formation having at least one substantially vertical fracture therein. A direction of the at least one substantially vertical fracture is determined with respect to a direction of the prior to drilling therethrough. A direction of the path is adjusted so that the well will intersect the at least one substantially vertical fracture substantially perpendicularly to the direction.