Tests confirm operational status of a large slot flow apparatus for characterizing fracturing fluids

摘要

A large-slot flow apparatus for investigating hydraulic fracturing fluid flow and proppant transport phenomena has been jointly devleoped by the Gas Research Institute (GRI), the Department of Energy (DOE), and The University of Oklahoma. A series of tests were performed to confirm the operational readiness of this apparatus to perform the many functions for which it was designed. This paper describes results obtained from the verification tests, particularly in terms of the proper functioning of instrumentation and control systems under a wide range of operating conditions. Tests performed were: flow of crosslinked gels, high-temperature (200 and 225 pF) flow tests, high-pressure (1,000 psi) flow tests to confirm proper operation of a unique throtting valve, effect of pressure on performation pressure loss, and dynamic fluid-loss tests with permeable facings at 1,000 psi.