Integration of Numerical Simulations for Uncertainty Analysis of Transient Flow Responses in Heterogeneous Tight Reservoirs

Abstract

The complex fracture network created by multistage hydraulic fracturing has been recently described by a triple porosity model. Existing triple porosity models typically assume sequential flow from matrix to micro fractures and from micro fractures to hydraulic fracture. Modeling simultaneous depletion of a matrix block into both micro and hydraulic fractures entails solution of a two dimensional continuity equation that is challenging by analytical or even semi-analytical methods. In addition, analysis with analytical models and type-curves provides deterministic and homogeneous estimates, rendering uncertainty analysis of fracture properties difficult. This paper systematically investigates applying stochastic models of fracture heterogeneity for production data analysis. It illustrates efficient integration of numerical simulations with analytical solutions to quantify the uncertainty in production performance predictions. Information derived from this sensitivity or uncertainty analysis can be used to evaluate existing fracturing operation and to optimize future multi-stage hydraulic fracturing operations.

Semi-Analytical Modeling of Fractured Horizontal Wells in Heterogeneous Formations Considering the Interference between Hydraulic Fractures

“…Numerical simulations of multiple fractured horizontal wells in low-permeability reservoirs are flexible in modeling complex heterogeneity (Xie et al, 2022;Freeman et al, 2013;Ren et al, 2014). For instance, in the numerical models of Yue et al (2013), heterogeneity of natural fractures had been considered into their simulations of a fractured horizontal well's production behavior. Their results suggested that for a…”