Paper: Bridging Effect Of Propping Agent Particles In Perforations, Perforation Tunnels, And Crosscut Channels

The transport of propping agent particles through the perforations, down the perforation tunnels, and into the fracture via the crosscut channels connecting the perforating tunnels and the fracture present special flow problems during hydraulic fracturing operations. Hydraulic fracturing treatments are commonly performed in the field, yet surprisingly little experimental or analytical work is available to guide engineers in selecting operating conditions to ensure that propping agent particles are transported efficiently from the casing into the fracture. This paper describes how propping agent particles are transported from the casing into the fracture. Presented in the paper is a procedure for predicting proppant agent transport from the casing into the fracture, and how the technique can be utilized to more effectively employ the hydraulic fracturing process.