A Hybrid Numerical-Analytical Model of Finite-Conductivity Vertical FracturesIntercepted by a Horizontal Well

摘要

This paper presents a hybrid, numerical-analytical model forrnthe pressure-transient response of a finite-conductivity fracturernintercepted by a horizontal well. The model dynamicallyrncouples a numerical fracture model with an analyticalrnreservoir model. This approach allows us to include finerrndetails of the fracture characteristics while keeping therncomputational work manageable. For example, the fracturernmay have irregular shape, nonuniform width, and variablernconductivity, and the well may not intersect the fracture at itsrngeometric center. This model can be used as a pressuretransientrnanalysis tool to interpret complex pressure-transientrncharacteristics or as a diagnostic tool to investigate therninfluence of various fracture properties on the productionrnperformance of fractured horizontal wells.rnWe discuss the effect of fracture characteristics on thernexistence of different flow regimes. We present therndistribution of flow rate into the fracture and flowrnconvergence toward the wellbore. The model helps tornunderstand the productivity loss due to flow choking andrnnonDarcy flow at the intersection of the horizontal well.