Development of a Novel Delivery System for Ultralightweight Proppants inConventional Fracturing Treatments

摘要

With increased utilization of ultra-lightweight proppants,several operational challenges have been encountered.Blending and measurement challenges arise from the relativecloseness of the specific gravity of ultra-lightweight proppantsto the base fluid, rendering conventional measurement systemsinadequate. The use of these ultra-lightweight proppants inslickwater fracturing is further complicated operationallybecause of the low proppant concentrations used; it is notuncommon to begin as low as 0.5 ppg added1.The solution to this problem utilizes a pumpable carrier fluidto suspend the ultra-lightweight proppant (ULWP). Theconcentrated proppant slurry can be prepared at the districtand transported to location where it can be pumped “as is”,diluted with water or linear gel, or pumped as a foam2. Thisconcept was developed from a previous project that involvedoffshore and remote location gravel and frac packs. Thispaper details the development, field testing, and job success ofa new generation of ultra-lightweight proppants, utilizing thisnovel delivery concept in conventional fracturing treatments.This technology will allow companies to conduct fracturingoperations with minimal equipment and manpower, andenable hydraulic fracturing to be conducted in small and/orremote locations. It will also allow an increased number offracturing treatments to be completed in areas whereequipment utilization is at a maximum and additional fracfleets are needed.