A REVIEW OF RESEARCH

PA P E R S
 PA P E R 1 : FA C TO R S I N F LU E N C I N G T H E
H O R I Z O N TA L I N T E R - W E L L I N T E R F E R E N C E I N
TIGHT GAS RESERVOIRS
L I P E N G Z H A N G A , T I A N X I A N G W A N G ( 2 0 2 2 )

o Research Problem o Addressing the Research Problem

Investigating how inter-well interference in tight gas The study addresses the problem by analyzing and
reservoirs, particularly in horizontal wells, affects understanding the causes and effects of inter-well
productivity. The focus is on understanding the dual interference, emphasizing the importance of
nature of inter-well interference which can either controlled fracturing scale and well spacing. The
enhance or reduce gas well production. findings offer guidance for optimizing fracturing
design to maximize production while minimizing
negative interference effects.
o Key Findings: o Main Data Points
 Well Spacing Optimization: Field tests in Marcellus
 Fracturing scale significantly impacts inter-well
shale gas and Changqing gas field to study the effect
interference in tight gas reservoirs.
of well spacing on fracture penetration.
 Moderate inter-well interference can enhance
 Single Stage Fracturing Scale: Development changes in
productivity.
the Sulige East II area, including the fracturing scale of
 Excessive interference reduces well productivity. horizontal wells.
 Optimal fracturing design and well spacing are crucial.  Fracturing Engineering Factors: Examination of
construction displacement and the temporary
plugging process.
 Field Data Analysis: Analyzing data from infill horizontal
wells in the Sulige East II area.
o Methods:
1. Stress Shading Principle: Analysis of in-situ and
induced stress effects on fracture propagation.
2. Types of Interwell Interference: Differentiating
between scenarios where hydraulic fractures are
connected between wells and those where they are not.
3. Analysis of Factors: Examining well pattern spacing,
single-stage fracturing scale, and fracturing engineering
factors.
4. Field Examples: Utilizing data from the Sulige East II
area gas field to demonstrate the effects of inter-well
interference.
 cumulative production of horizontal well 2 is 6 years
o Results: and 5 months, and the cumulative gas volume is 4563
104 m3
 Demonstrated that fracturing scale is a major factor
causing inter-well interference.
 Identified that moderate inter-well interference can
enhance production, while excessive interference
reduces it.
 Showed that well pattern and spacing, along with
fracturing scale, are critical in controlling inter-well
interference.
 Provided field examples illustrating the impacts of
various factors on well productivity.
 Concluded that non-penetration of hydraulic
fractures is preferable and that a balance in
fracturing scale and well spacing is crucial for
optimal gas production.
According to the production data, horizontal well 1 has
been producing for 6 years and 2 months, and the
cumulative gas volume is 2008 104 m3 . The
 Results

 The distance between wells with the highest probability

 Thermal imaging of fractures with a spacing of
of inter-well interference is 300-500 m. For horizontal
302 m shows obvious fracture penetration and wells with spacing less than 300 m
400-500 m
 For horizontal wells with spacing greater than 700 m, the
reservoir is likely to be untapped due to an insufficient
fracturing scale. In summary, the recommended well spacing
of the gas field is 500-700 m
o Conclusion:

 Fracturing scale is a key factor in inter-well interference, influenced by well pattern and
spacing.

 Unsuccessful temporary plugging judgment requires reducing fracturing scale or cancelling

temporary plugging.

 Fracturing scale should ensure hydraulic fractures do not penetrate, with geological
reservoirs and engineering parameters as key influences.

 Non-penetrative hydraulic fractures affect pressure, enhancing single-well production.

 Wells with penetrative fractures and fluid spread reduce adjacent well production, with slow
recovery.

 Moderate inter-well interference can boost adjacent well production.

 PA P E R 2 : P r e l o a d i n g D e p l e t e d P a r e n t
We l l s To Av o i d F r a c t u r e H i t s : S o m e
Important Design Considerations

o Research Problem o Addressing the Research Problem

 The challenge of mitigating the negative
impacts of fracture hits on parent and child
well production.
 Focus on developing methods for better
managing production/injection in the parent
 The study emphasizes the importance of
engineered quantitative design for
preloading, including specific injection times,
rates, volumes, and soaking times.
 Successful preloading requires an increase in
stress in the parent well's depleted region.

well to improve the performance of the child

 The study suggests that by modifying
well by minimizing fracture interference and
completion design and preloading the parent
hits
well with water, direct fracture hits can be
avoided
o Key Findings:
Primarily explores strategies to mitigate negative impacts of fracture hits on oil and gas production.
Key findings include:
1. The importance of parent-well depletion and repressurization on child-well fracture propagation and parent-well productivity.

2. A fully integrated equation-of-state compositional hydraulic fracturing and reservoir simulator developed for the study.

3. Different fluid types (black oil, volatile oil, and dry gas) and drawdown strategies for parent wells lead to varying stress
distributions in the depleted zone, affecting child-well fracture propagation.

4. Different strategies for repressurizing the parent well were studied, focusing on the injected fluids (gas vs. water), and volumes
of preload fluid.

5. It was discovered that fracture hits can be avoided with appropriate fluid injection strategies, but poorly designed strategies
may still lead to fracture hits.

6. The impact of preloading on parent-well productivity showed that water preloading could cause water blocking and damage
to the parent well, whereas gas preloading could increase oil recovery from the parent well.
o Methods:

 Model Description: 3 domains were considered  Simulation Methodology: Solution Algorithms in HF

and reservoir simulation model
o Results:
1. Effectiveness of Fluid Injection Strategies: The study shows that fracture
hits can be avoided with appropriate fluid injection strategies. However,
poorly designed strategies may lead to fracture hits, emphasizing the need
for careful planning.
fluid types (black oil, volatile oil, and dry gas) and drawdown strategies for
parent wells lead to varying stress distributions in the depleted zone. This
affects child-well fracture propagation, providing valuable insights into the
mechanics of reservoir management.

2. Impact on Parent-Well Productivity: The research highlights that water

preloading can cause water blocking and damage the parent well, while gas
preloading can increase oil recovery from the parent well. This finding is
crucial for optimizing preloading strategies to enhance overall productivity.

3. Stress Distribution in Depleted Zones: The paper reports that different

o Results:
4. Preloading Strategies with Gas vs. Water: The study compares different 5. Simulation and Modeling: The development and use of a fully integrated
strategies for repressurizing the parent well, focusing on the injected fluids equation-of-state compositional hydraulic fracturing and reservoir simulator
(gas vs. water) and volumes of preload fluid. The effectiveness of these are significant achievements of this research.
strategies in preventing fracture hits and their impact on the productivity of
the parent well are key outcomes.
 o Conclusions:
1.Stress Evolution Due to Depletion:
Depletion-induced stress evolution in the
reservoir is the primary cause of fracture hits
observed in the field.
2.Completion Design Changes: Simple
changes in completion design, such as
extreme limited entry and tapered perforation
designs, can help delay fracture hits and
reduce fracture interference but cannot
completely prevent them.
3.Fluid Injection for Stress Increase:
Temporarily increasing stress around parent-
well fractures by injecting fluids can help
avoid fracture hits.
Wells: Fracture treatments in the child well
should be conducted soon after
repressurization due to the temporary nature
of the stress increase. The duration of this
increase depends on reservoir permeability
and fluid type.
5. Impact of Reservoir Fluid Type on
Preload Design: The type of reservoir fluid
significantly influences pore pressure and
stress distribution, affecting preload design.
Preloads are more effective in reservoirs with
less compressible hydrocarbon fluids.
6. Water vs. Gas Preloads: Using water as a
preload fluid is more effective at increasing
pore pressure and stress than using gas.
However, water preloads may cause water
blocking in the parent well, reducing
productivity, while gas preloads can improve
oil recovery in the parent well.
stage with extreme limited entry design
for shorter, more uniform fracture growth.
 Properly designing preloads in parent
wells is crucial. Factors like fluid type,
rate, volume, and injection pressure are
important.
 Success of a preload treatment in one
reservoir type does not guarantee success
in another.
 Gas reservoirs are not ideal for parent-
well preloads.
 Child-well fracture treatments should be
planned and executed immediately after
or during the preload injection.
 Considering gas huff 'n' puff improved oil
recovery treatments in the parent well
while mitigating child-well fracture hits
using a geomechanical compositional
reservoir simulator.
 PA P E R 3 : N U M E R I C A L I N V E S T I G AT I O N F O R
S I M U LTA N E O U S G R O W T H O F H Y D R A U L I C
F R A C T U R E S I N M U LT I P L E H O R I Z O N TA L W E L L S
X I Y U C H E N , YO N G M I N G L I 2 0 1 8

o Key Findings:

1. The simulations reveal asymmetric fracture propagations in multi-well fracturing, where

the lateral growth of interior fractures is suppressed due to intense inter-well stress
interference​​.

2. A higher inlet pressure loss achieved by limited entry design can promote the lateral
propagation of interior fractures​​.
  The model makes several assumptions, including
o Methods:
horizontal wellbores positioned parallel to each other,
 The study is based on a solid-fluid coupled 3D numerical homogeneous elastic medium for reservoir rock,
model. incompressible Newtonian fracturing fluid, and the
assumption that fluid front coincides with the fracture
front​​.

 Numerical Scheme
 2. Effect of Fracture Spacing: Decreasing fracture spacing
o Results:
increases total fracture surface areas but does not significantly
1. Base Case Results: High inlet pressure loss balances flux enhance effective fracture area. Too dense fracture placement
partitioning into different fractures. Stress shadowing during may not be efficient and can lead to rapid production decline​​.
fracturing treatments leads to asymmetric propagation, where
interior fractures grow more slowly or even vertically into
adjoining boundary layers​​.
3. Effect of Well Spacing: Smaller well spacings enhance stress 4. Effect of Fracturing Scheme: The zipper fracturing scheme,
interference, potentially leading to complex fracture growth where operations are carried out alternately at multiple
patterns. However, too small spacing can result in non- horizontal wells, shows more efficiency than simultaneous
uniform fracture growths and a sharp reduction in fracturing fracturing. It promotes fracture complexity and increases
effectiveness when below a critical value​​. fracture surface areas​​.
o Conclusion:
1. The study concludes that in multi-well fracturing, asymmetric fracture propagation is common due
to intense inter-well stress interference.
2. Limited entry design can promote lateral propagation of interior fractures but may not be effective in
closely spaced wells.
3. Utilization of extremely dense fracture placement is questionable due to potential cost inefficiencies.
4. There is a lower limit in well spacing for effective fracturing treatment design. The zipper fracturing
scheme, despite requiring more optimization and operation time, provides better performance
compared to simultaneous fracturing​​.
 PA P E R 4 : S I M U L AT I O N O F S I M U LTA N E O U S
P R O PA G AT I O N O F M U LT I P L E H Y D R A U L I C
F R A C T U R E S I N H O R I Z O N TA L W E L L S
J I N Z H O U Z H A O , X I Y U C H E N A , ⁎ , Y O N G M I N G L I 2 0 1 6

o Research Problem: o Addressing the Research Problem:

The challenge of non-uniform propagation of Present a numerical model to simulate the
hydraulic fractures in horizontal wells during multi- simultaneous propagation of multiple hydraulic
stage fracturing operations. This non-uniform growth fractures. The model integrates various physical
leads to inefficient fossil fuel extraction, as some processes such as elastic deformation of rock, stress
fractures contribute less to overall production. interaction among fractures, fluid flow in fractures,
and flow distribution into different fractures. The
research aims to understand the competition process
among growing fractures and investigate
optimization measures for more uniform fracture
growth. This includes adjusting fluid partitioning and
stress interference.
Key Findings:
1. The numerical model developed in the study effectively simulates the simultaneous propagation of
multiple hydraulic fractures in horizontal wells.

2. The study finds that measures such as increasing perforation friction and utilizing inter-well stress
interference can promote more uniform growth of multiple hydraulic fractures.

3. The research also explores the limitations of these optimization measures in practical engineering
scenarios, acknowledging that factors like near-wellbore tortuosity and pressure drops can hinder
the optimization of uniform growth.

4. Despite these limitations, the proposed measures are still recommended for partially mitigating the
non-uniformity in the growth of hydraulic fractures.
o Methods:
Employed a numerical modeling approach. This method integrates various physical processes including the elastic deformation of
rock, fluid flow in fractures, and the stress interaction among fractures. The model simulates the simultaneous growth of multiple
hydraulic fractures in horizontal wells. The study uses this model to analyze how different parameters, such as fluid partitioning and
stress interference, affect the uniformity of fracture growth. This methodology is critical for understanding and optimizing hydraulic
fracturing processes.
o Results:
1. Impact of Perforation Friction: This part discusses how increasing perforation friction can influence the uniformity of hydraulic fracture
growth. The study presents findings from simulations that demonstrate the effects of altered perforation friction on fracture propagation.

2. Effect of Stress Interference: Explores the role of stress interference between wells on fracture development. It examines how stress fields
influenced by neighboring wells can impact the growth pattern of fractures.

3. Limitations of Optimization Measures: Acknowledge and discuss the practical limitations of the proposed optimization strategies. This
includes factors like near-wellbore conditions and other geological challenges that might affect the effectiveness of these strategies in real-world
scenarios.
o Conclusion:
1. The paper presents a numerical model capable of capturing relevant physical mechanisms in the propagation of hydraulic
fractures, including the elasto-hydrodynamic interaction and a dimensionless factor for accurate stress interaction estimation.

2. The simulations demonstrate the significant uneven growth of multi-fractures in uniformly distributed perforation clusters,
attributing this unevenness to the dynamic disruption of balanced fluid partitioning by stress interaction between fractures.

3. The study finds that adjusting fluid partitioning through high perforation friction and balancing stress interference can lead to
more uniform fracture growth. The inter-well stress interference, in particular, can be utilized to promote growth in stunted
fractures by ensuring they receive more injected fluid.

4. The paper acknowledges the challenges in achieving uniform fracture growth in practice due to the heterogeneity of rock
properties and in situ stresses, as well as unpredictable near-wellbore pressure drops. Despite these challenges, the proposed
measures are suggested to partially mitigate non-uniform growth
 PA P E R 5 : A N U M E R I C A L S T U D Y O F
S E Q U E N T I A L A N D S I M U LTA N E O U S
HYDRAULIC FRACTURING IN SINGLE AND
M U LT I - L AT E R A L H O R I Z O N TA L W E L L S
V A R A H A N A R E S H S E S E T T Y , A H M A D G H A S S E M I 2 0 1 5

o Problem Statement:

Addresses the problem of optimizing hydraulic fracturing in oil and gas extraction.
The authors develop a 2D coupled displacement discontinuity numerical model to
simulate fracture propagation in simultaneous and sequential hydraulic fracturing
operations for single and multiple parallel wells. The study aims to understand the
effects of various rock and fluid properties on stimulation, aiming to minimize the
risk of unwanted fracture geometries.
o Key Findings:
1. Demonstrated effects of fracture spacing and boundary conditions on expected
stimulated zones.

2. Observed influence of fracture path by spacing and boundary conditions.

3. Analyzed the impact of simultaneous and sequential fracturing on stimulated reservoir

volume (SRV).

4. Explored differences in fracture behavior between conventional and modified zipper

fracturing methods
 fracturing in single horizontal wells, as well
o Methods:
as multi-lateral well systems (like zipper

1. Model Development: The study develops a fracturing). These examples help in

2D coupled displacement discontinuity understanding the practical application of the

numerical model. This model is designed to model.

simulate fracture propagation in both

5. Comparison of Stimulated Rock Volume:
simultaneous and sequential hydraulic
The study compares the stimulated rock
fracturing operations.
volume between conventional zipper

2. Displacement Discontinuity Method: This fracturing and modified zipper fracturing,

method is employed for calculating fracture providing insights into the efficiency of

deformation. It divides fractures into different fracturing techniques

elements and calculates stresses on each

element.

3. Fluid Flow Simulation: The model

simulates fluid flow within fractures, using
principles of fluid dynamics and considering
factors like fluid viscosity.

4. Simulation Examples: The paper includes

examples of sequential and simultaneous
 2. Impact of Fracturing Sequence: The 3. Comparison of Fracturing Methods: It
o Results:
paper examines how the sequence of compares conventional and modified zipper

1. Fracture Spacing and Boundary fracturing (sequential vs. simultaneous) fracturing methods, highlighting

Conditions: This section discusses how impacts the effectiveness of the fracturing differences in their impact on fracture

fracture spacing and surrounding boundary process and the overall stimulated area. development and reservoir stimulation.

conditions affect fracture propagation and

the resulting stimulated reservoir volume.
o Conclusion:
1. Model Effectiveness: The coupled fluid flow and rock deformation model developed is effective for
simulating hydraulic fracturing from horizontal wells.

2. Sequential Fracturing Dynamics: The fracture geometries in sequential fracturing depend on the
boundary conditions of earlier fractures, showing curving based on attraction and repulsion forces.

3. Simultaneous Fracturing Behavior: In simultaneous fracturing, outer fractures dominate growth, with
inner fractures halting due to stress shadow.

4. Zipper Fracturing Analysis: Different zipper fracturing scenarios, including simultaneous and sequential
injections with and without offsets, were analyzed. It's found that offsets increase fracture complexity but also
raise pressure requirements and potentially lead to truncation.

5. Stimulated Rock Volume: The study observed little difference in the stimulated rock volume between
conventional and modified zipper fracturing.
 PA P E R 6 : I N T E G R AT E D W O R K F L O W O F
T E M P E R AT U R E T R A N S I E N T A N A LY S I S A N D
P R E S S U R E T R A N S I E N T A N A LY S I S F O R
M U LT I S TA G E F R A C T U R E D H O R I Z O N TA L W E L L S I N
TIGHT OIL RESERVOIRS
Z H I G A N G C A O A , P E I C H A O L I , Q I N G Y U L I A , D E T A N G L U 2 0 2 0

o Problem Statement:
The research problem in the paper is centered on improving fracture diagnosis in hydraulic fracturing. The
traditional method of pressure transient analysis (PTA) often leads to multiple solutions and uncertainties. To
address this, the authors propose an integrated approach using both temperature transient analysis (TTA)
and PTA. This method utilizes the temperature field data from distributed temperature sensors (DTS) along
with pressure data to more accurately determine the geometry and conductivity of hydraulic fractures. This
integrated approach aims to overcome the limitations of using PTA alone, providing a more reliable and
detailed understanding of fracture properties.
o Key Findings:
1. A new integrated method combining Temperature Transient Analysis (TTA) and Pressure
Transient Analysis (PTA) is proposed for more accurate fracture diagnosis in horizontal wells.

2. The study demonstrates that TTA, supported by distributed temperature sensors (DTS), can
effectively identify the quantity and location of fractures.

3. PTA remains useful for determining the length and permeability of hydraulic fractures.

4. The integrated approach addresses the limitations of PTA alone, particularly in dealing with
multiple solution scenarios, and improves the accuracy of fracture characterization.
o Methods:
1. Mathematical Modeling: This model describes the temperature and pressure fields in multistage fractured horizontal wells during single-

phase oil production.

2. Numerical Solution with COMSOL Multiphysics: The mathematical model is numerically solved using COMSOL Multiphysics

3. Parametric Studies: The study conducts parametric analyses to understand the effects of various formation properties and fracture parameters

on wellbore temperature behavior.

4. Fracture Diagnosis Integration of PTA and TTA: PTA analyzes bottom-hole pressure data, while TTA, enhanced by Distributed

Temperature Sensors (DTS), evaluates wellbore temperature profiles to determine fracture characteristics.

5. Case Study and Simulation: Simulating the production process and employing the integrated workflow of TTA and PTA to analyze and

validate the methodology

o Results:
1. Identification of Fracture Characteristics: The combined TTA and PTA approach successfully identifies fracture characteristics,
such as their quantity, location, length, and permeability, more accurately than using PTA alone.

2. Enhanced Predictive Accuracy: The integration of TTA and PTA provides a more accurate prediction of the fracture network,
improving the reliability of production predictions and optimization designs.

3. Case Study Validation: A hypothetical case study demonstrates the practical application and validation of the integrated approach,
showing its effectiveness in simulating and analyzing fracture characteristics.
o Conclusion:
1. Thermal Convection Influence: In the multistage fractured horizontal well (MFHW) production process, thermal convection
significantly impacts the temperature field compared to thermal conduction. Wellbore temperature rises faster with higher fluid heat
capacity, production rate, and permeability.

2. Fracture Diagnosis: While the change in fracture half-length does not regularly affect wellbore temperature, the data can
determine the quantity and location of fractures due to distinct temperature behaviors at wellbore and fracture intersections.

3. Integrated Workflow of TTA and PTA: The study proposes an innovative workflow combining Temperature Transient Analysis
(TTA) and Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA). TTA identifies the quantity and location of fractures, while PTA determines the
fracture half-length and reservoir permeability, enhancing the accuracy of hydraulic fracture parameter determination.
 PA P E R 7 : N U M E R I C A L S T U D Y O F H Y D R A U L I C
F R A C T U R I N G I N T H E S E C T O R I A L W E L L - FA C T O RY
CONSIDERING WELL INTERFERENCE AND STRESS
SHADOWING
Y U - H A O L I U , J I N - T A O Z H A N G , J I E B A I , F E N G - S H O U Z H A N G , J I - Z H O U T A N G 2 0 2 3

 Research Problem :

The authors focus on the problems of fracture deflection, well interference, and stress shadowing in sectorial
well-factories. These issues arise due to the deviation of wells from the minimum horizontal stress direction,
leading to complex fracture propagation and interaction behaviors.

 Addressing the Research Problem :

Explore various fracturing designs, including stage arrangement, fracturing sequences, and techniques, to
optimize fracture morphology and stimulation design. The paper suggests that certain arrangements (like
gradual or sparse stage arrangement) and techniques can minimize the adverse effects of stress shadowing
and optimize fracturing in complex well patterns, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas.
o Key Findings: optimizing stimulation design in unconventional well-factory
settings, taking into account environmental protection
1. Fracture Deflection: The study introduces four indexes to
requirements.
describe well deflection according to fracture morphology.
5. Fracture Propagation Characteristics: The study discusses
2. Stage Arrangement and Techniques: Several fracturing
fracture propagation characteristics like well interference and
designs, including stage arrangement, fracturing sequences,
fracture deflection in oblique horizontal wells, using the
and techniques, are applied. The "gradual" or "sparse" stage
proposed evaluation indexes.
arrangement, large injection rate, and simultaneous
6. Optimization Designs: Different optimization designs are
multifracture treatment are found to optimize fracture
tested in the numerical model and evaluated by the proposed
morphology and stimulation design.
indexes. The study compares the performance of different
3. Stress Shadowing: The research highlights the impact of
fracturing sequences and techniques, showing their varying
subsequent stress shadowing on the fracturing of adjacent
impacts on fracture morphology and induced stress evolution.
wells. It suggests that with a small initial horizontal stress
7. Simulation Insights: The research provides insights into the
difference, a large injection rate, and staggered stage
feasibility of initial fracturing in reservoirs, considering
arrangement can achieve optimal stimulation performance.
complexities like stress differential and natural fractures.
4. Environmental Protection: The results provide guidance for
o Methods:

 Three-dimensional lattice method-based numerical model.

This model simulates hydraulic fracturing in sectorial well-factories, incorporating key factors such as well deflection,
stress shadowing, and well interference. The model evaluates different fracturing designs, including stage
arrangement, fracturing sequences, and techniques, to optimize fracture morphology and stimulation. It also involves
a comprehensive analysis of fracture propagation characteristics under various configurations, using a combination of
mechanical and flow models to understand the complex dynamics of hydraulic fracturing in oblique horizontal wells.
 sectorial well-factory setting.
o Results:
1. Fracture Propagation in the Sectorial Well-Factory:
• Discusses the characteristics of fracture
propagation in a sectorial well-factory, focusing
on the unique challenges posed by well
interference and fracture deflection.
2. Model Verification:
• The study's numerical model is validated
against established theoretical and empirical
data, ensuring its reliability for simulating
hydraulic fracturing processes.
3. Simulation of Fracture Morphology:
• Detailed simulations of fracture morphology
are presented, offering both visual and
quantitative analyses of how fractures form and
propagate under different conditions in the
4. Evaluation Indexes for the Sectorial Well-Factory: The
paper introduces specific indexes to evaluate the
performance of hydraulic fracturing in the sectorial
well-factory setup.

5. Numerical Simulations for Fracture Optimization:

Involves simulations aimed at optimizing the hydraulic
fracturing process, offering insights into best practices
and techniques in a sectorial well-factory.

6. Optimization of the “Heel” Section of Two Wells in the

Extreme Region: Focuses on optimizing the fracturing
process in the most challenging part of the well-
factory, particularly the "heel" section of two wells
(well3-1,3-2)
7. Different Fracturing Techniques: Evaluates various fracturing techniques and their effectiveness in the context
of a sectorial well-factory. The comparison and analysis focus on determining which techniques are most
beneficial for optimizing hydraulic fracturing in this specific setting.
o Conclusion:
The conclusions of the paper are as follows:

• Fracture Propagation Optimization: The study demonstrates successful optimization of fracture

propagate on in sectorial well-factories using "gradual" or "sparse" stage arrangements.

• Fracture Coalescence and Well Interference: The research indicates that fracture coalescence can be
beneficial under certain conditions, and well interference is likely to occur at large injection rates.

• Stress Differential Impact: The paper highlights the impact of stress differentials on fracturing sequence
decisions and induced stress results, noting that these can vary from model predictions.

• Consideration of Natural Fractures: The study emphasizes the importance of considering natural
fractures, which can interact with hydraulic fractures and affect fracturing outcomes.

• Large-Scale Production and Environmental Protection: The study underscores the sectorial well-
factory model's potential for balancing large-scale production with environmental protection.
 PA P E R 8 : S T R E S S S H A D O W S I Z E A N D
APERTURE OF HYDRAULIC FRACTURES
IN UNCONVENTIONAL SHALES
A . T A G H I C H I A N , M . Z A M A N , D . D E V E G O W D A 2 0 1 4

o Research Problem and Addressing that Problem:

 Paper Centers on understanding the influence of stress shadows and fracture apertures in hydraulic
fracturing within shale formations. The gap identified is the lack of comprehensive three-dimensional
studies quantifying the effect of key variables on stress shadow size and fracture aperture.

 To address this problem, piloted a detailed numerical study using a finite-element-based simulator. They
explore various scenarios involving single and simultaneous hydraulic fractures, both contained and
uncontained, and analyze the impact of hydraulic pressure, fracture aspect ratios, and stress anisotropy
on fracture behavior. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the factors influencing
stress shadow size and fracture aperture, providing valuable insights for optimizing hydraulic fracturing
in shale reservoirs.
o Key Findings:
4. Comprehensive Numerical Study: The study presents a
The key findings of the paper include:
numerical analysis of stress shadow and aperture in 3D
1. Central Role of Multistage Fracturing: Multistage hydraulic hydraulic fractures, covering single or simultaneous fractures,
fracturing and simultaneous fracturing of parallel laterals are both contained and uncontained.
crucial for enhancing productivity in shale reservoirs with low
5. Influencing Parameters and Shadow Mechanisms: Key
permeability.
parameters influencing stress shadows are introduced, with a
2. Importance of Efficient Fracture Network: An efficient discussion on different shadow mechanisms.
fracture network reduces the likelihood of deviated or
6. Equations for Prediction: A set of equations is proposed for
collapsed fractures, thereby preventing poor connectivity,
predicting stress shadow and aperture of hydraulic fractures.
reduced reserves, lower productivity, and higher completion
costs. 7. Practical Benefits: The study provides insights for improved
planning and placement of fracture treatments, potential cost
3. Impact of Stress Shadow: Local stress redistribution due to
reductions in completion design, and optimal multistage
stress shadow effect can cause fracture deviation or collapse.
hydraulic fracture treatment for enhanced reservoir drainage.
 like stress anisotropy, hydraulic pressure, and
o Methods:
fracture geometry.

1. Numerical Modeling: Utilizing ABAQUS CAE

4. Comparative Analysis: Comparing
6.12, a finite-element-based simulator for
numerically obtained results with predicted
modeling the stress shadow and aperture of
values using developed equations. This
hydraulic fractures. This approach includes
comparison is crucial for validating the
analyzing simple fracture geometries against
models and equations.
known analytical solutions to validate the
5. Parameters Variation: Investigating the
modeling strategy.
effects of different variables such as aspect
2. Scenario Analysis: Four scenarios involving
ratio, Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, and
single or simultaneous hydraulic fractures,
hydraulic pressure on the stress shadow size
both contained and uncontained, are
and aperture.
studied in detail. This approach helps
understand different stress shadow and
aperture behaviors under varied conditions.

3. Analytical Equations: Developing

comprehensive sets of equations for
predicting stress shadow size and fracture
aperture. These equations consider factors
o Results:
1. Shadow Mechanism Dependency: The study
demonstrates that the shadow mechanism in hydraulic
fractures varies depending on the magnitude of applied
hydraulic pressure.(conclusion 1st result)

2. Fracture Aperture Prediction: A comprehensive equation

was proposed for predicting fracture aperture. This
equation considers horizontal stress anisotropy, rock
moduli, hydraulic pressure, aspect ratio, and
containment. Key observations include:
 Stress anisotropy does not significantly affect the
aperture of hydraulic fractures.
 Aperture is inversely related to rock moduli and
directly related to the fracture's aspect ratio
3. Impact of Un-Containment on Aperture: Un-containment
of hydraulic fractures significantly influences the aperture,
while simultaneous fracturing does not have a significant
effect on aperture size. Specifically:
 Lower Young's modulus in the bounding layers and
greater penetration extent lead to an increase in
aperture.
 Conversely, a higher Young's modulus and greater
penetration extent result in a decrease in aperture.

4. Shadow Size Determination: Young's modulus of the rock

does not alter the shadow size. Stress anisotropy, Poisson's
ratio, aspect ratio, and hydraulic pressure directly increase
the shadow size.
o Conclusion:  Simultaneous fracturing doesn't significantly affect
aperture.
 Shadow Mechanism Variability: Changes with the
 Shadow Size Factors:
magnitude of hydraulic pressure applied.
 Young's modulus does not affect shadow size.
 Fracture Aperture Prediction: Developed equation
accounts for stress anisotropy, rock moduli, and other  Stress anisotropy, Poisson's ratio, aspect ratio, and
factors. Key findings include: hydraulic pressure increase shadow size.

 Stress anisotropy does not significantly affect
aperture.
 Aperture inversely related to rock moduli and directly
to aspect ratio.
 Proposed Equations for Shadow Size: Useful for
hydraulic fracturing treatment and design, particularly
in perforation distance and proppant size
considerations.

 Un-containment and Fracturing Impact:

 Uncontainment significantly influences aperture size.

PA P E R 9 : N U M E R I C A L S I M U L AT I O N O F M Z F
DESIGN WITH NON-PLANAR HYDRAULIC
F R A C T U R I N G F R O M M U LT I - L AT E R A L
H O R I Z O N TA L W E L L S
B . S O B H A N I A R A G H , J . T R E V E L Y A N , W . J . M A N S U R , F . C . P E T E R S 2 0 1 7

o Statement:

The research problem in the paper focuses on the Modified Zipper-Frac

(MZF) design for enhancing fracture network complexity in areas between
adjacent horizontal wellbores. This study investigates the propagation of
non-planar hydraulic fractures, considering stress shadowing effects. The
approach involves using the Cohesive Segments Method combined with
the Phantom Node Method (CPNM) and Settari's fluid leak-off model.
 3. Benefits of MZF Design: The study highlights the
o Key Findings:
advantages of the MZF design in reducing the magnitude
The key findings of the study are:
of shear stresses through stress shadowing effects.

1. Stress-Altered Zones: The simulation results indicate that

4. Fracture Spacing and Stress Contrast: The results suggest
stress-altered zones crucially affect the second stage of
that new fractures growing into the altered-stress region
Well No. 1, dividing them into attraction and repulsion
can change local stresses and the low-stress contrast
zones. Similarly, the area near Well No. 1, where the third
region. Additionally, it is revealed that reducing fracture
fracture propagates, is divided into curving and unaltered
spacing significantly decreases horizontal stress contrast
zones.
near the fracture tip, while larger fracture spacing results

2. Impact on Shear Stresses and Fracture Activation: The in a considerably lower overall horizontal stress contrast

propagation of a third fracture from an offset wellbore between fractures.

into the area between pre-existing fractures significantly
5. Leak-Off Flow Rate: The leak-off flow rate substantially
alters the magnitude of shear stresses. This alteration
increases as the hydraulic fracturing process in the MZF
exposes more of the reservoir to changes in shear stress,
design progresses to its later stages
activating pre-existing planes of weakness and natural
fractures in non-conventional reservoirs like shale plays.
o Methods:
1. Cohesive Segments Method in combination with Phantom Node Method (CPNM): This method is established to simulate the
propagation of non-planar hydraulic fractures. CPNM considers the stress shadowing effects

2. Settari's Fluid Leak-off Model: A user-defined subroutine to treat the filter cake as a pressure-dependent layer. This approach is
essential for accurately modeling the fluid dynamics involved in hydraulic fracturing.

3. Numerical Simulations: A substantial number of numerical simulations using CPNM (Cohesive phantom node method) are
conducted. These simulations are critical for investigating various factors such as stress isotropy, in-plane shear stresses, and
the leak-off flow rate.
o Results:
1. Stress-Altered Zones: The study identifies stress-
altered zones around Well No. 1, categorizing them
into attraction and repulsion zones. These zones
significantly affect the second stage of hydraulic
fracturing.

2. Impact on Shear Stresses and Fracture Activation:

The propagation of a third fracture from an offset
wellbore into the area between pre-existing
fractures considerably alters the magnitude of
shear stresses. This alteration exposes a larger part
of the reservoir to changes in shear stress,
activating pre-existing planes of weakness and
natural fractures in non-conventional reservoirs like
shale plays.
3. Fracture Spacing and Stress Contrast:
New fractures growing into the
altered-stress region can change local
stresses and reduce the low-stress
contrast region. The results also show
that the horizontal stress contrast
decreases near the fracture tip when
fracture spacing is reduced, and
overall horizontal stress contrast is
lower in cases with larger fracture
spacing.

4. Leak-Off Flow Rate: The leak-off flow

rate increases significantly as the
hydraulic fracturing process in the MZF
design progresses to its later stages
 magnitude of shear stresses, exposing more of the reservoir to
o Conclusions:
shear stress alterations. This leads to the activation of pre-existing
• The study presented a comprehensive analysis of the Modified planes of weakness and natural fractures in non-conventional
Zipper-Frac (MZF) design using closely spaced fractures to reservoirs like shale plays.
enhance fracture network complexity between adjacent
• The MZF design is beneficial in decreasing the magnitude of
horizontal wellbores.
shear stresses through stress shadowing effects.
• Stress shadowing effects were accounted for using the Cohesive
• New fractures growing into the altered-stress region can alter
Segments Method combined with the Phantom Node Method
local stresses and change the low-stress contrast region.
(CPNM), and Settari's fluid leak-off model was employed for
simulating non-planar hydraulic fracture propagation. • The horizontal stress contrast significantly decreases near the
fracture tip when fracture spacing is reduced. Overall horizontal
• The results identified stress-altered zones around Well No. 1,
stress contrast between fractures is lower in cases with larger
divided into attraction and repulsion zones, with significant effects
fracture spacing.
on the second stage of fracturing.
• The leak-off flow rate increases substantially as the hydraulic
• The area near Well No. 1 where the third fracture propagates is
fracturing process in the MZF design progresses to its later stages
partitioned into curving and unaltered zones.

• The propagation of a third fracture from an offset wellbore into

the area between pre-existing fractures considerably alters the