Several studies have been performed recently that have focused on reevaluating the original fracture treatment designs performed in various low permeability gas fields in the Burgos Basin of northern Mexico. The primary goal of these studies was to determine if the fracture treatments were achieving optimal stimulation of the reservoirs. Results of this work have indicated that the propped fracture half-lengths achieved in the past are approximately 40% to 50% of the original designed half-lengths. The main reason for the shorter fracture lengths is that the created fracture heights were greater than expected.
The studies have provided better descriptions of individual reservoir properties and vertical stress profiles. These results are now being used in both reservoir and fracture models to design more optimal fracture treatments. These new fracture treatment designs have increased production from 50% to 300% over previous fracture designs.
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