Case Study of a Novel Hydraulic Fracturing Method that Maximizes Effective Hydraulic Fracture Length

Abstract

Effective fracture lengths are frequently observed to be much less than antcipated fracture lengths. This is seen in lower than expected production or evidenced in pressure transient analysis results. A precursor to the poor fracture performance is poor recovery of the fracturing fluid; often less than 50% is recovered during clean-up. In many reservoirs this unrecovered fracturing fluid remains immobile within the formation creating an obstruction to flow. This significantly compromises effective frac length and results in decreased production.