Novel Techniques for Modelling Re-Fracturing in Tight Reservoirs

Abstract

In the current low commodity price environment, several operators have chosen to return to their mature fields to re-fracture the reservoirs to improve overall recovery of reserves. Although modelling remains challenging, re-fracturing treatments have been successfully executed on multiple wells worldwide. This study compares three different approaches to model re-fracturing in tight sands as a means of reducing the overall uncertainty. Multi-domain integration was utilised in which geomechanical data was coupled with petrophysical analysis to build a three-dimensional (3D) hydraulic fracture model. Fracture pressure history matching was performed and the model was validated using calibration data available from microseismic analysis and extended leakoff tests. Production history matching was performed to validate the reservoir simulation model and estimate the resulting depletion around the wellbore. Geomechanical properties and the resulting minimum in-situ horizontal stress were re-calculated incorporating the results of depletion using three different approaches: Pore Pressure Model, Scale Model and Non-Scale Model. Finally, the hydraulic fracture models were re-constructed using the revised geomechanical properties to simulate re-fracturing using various pumping treatments. The fracture geometries obtained from re-fracture simulations were dependent on the model used for re-computation of geomechanical properties post-production as well as the fluid volume pumped. These properties were also validated using laboratory testing. Comparison of the three approaches indicated consistent geometries when small volumes of fluid or typical ‘Plug and Perf’ designs were pumped. Upon pumping larger volumes or typical ‘Sliding Sleeve’ treatments, major differences were observed using the three approaches indicating larger uncertainty and warranting the use of the more rigorous Non-Scale Model. Validated models are important tools for designing hydraulic fracturing treatments to avoid risks of sub-optimisation of fracture designs or undesirable bashing of offset parent wells. Good understanding of re-fracture models helps oil companies make informed decisions regarding their completion programme, hence improving overall hydrocarbon recovery. Modelling of re-fracture treatments continue to pose a challenge for engineers due to added subsurface static and dynamic complexities. This study presents basic guidelines to follow for modelling, with results verified from laboratory testing.