lows operators to make timely adjustments to wells being fracked on multiwell pads that feature parent and child wells. The system categorizes the type and severity of interwell communication by measuring the pressure response from a parent well as hydraulic fracturing proceeds normally in child wells. Geoscientists and completion engineers can use the data to determine if, or to what severity, a frack hit is taking place. The system looks for direct fluid transport from wellbore to wellbore, fluid migration increases, instantaneous pressure response in an offset well or, hopefully, if there is no signal of pressure change in a neighboring well. Austin, Texas-based Seismos received $10.5 million from investors to harness a software-based technology to also better understand frack hits. Through its product Seismos-Frac, engineers can adjust treatment solutions on the fly. The technology was developed in conjunction with Stanford University faculty.
National Lab Frack Attention At the national level, several research institutions from the University of North Dakota’s Energy and Environmental Research Center to Oak Ridge National Lab continue to assess, test and research novel or intricate methods to better understand the future of fracking. Oak Ridge researchers are using a combination of neutron and
x-ray scattering to make fracking more efficient. The team is testing the possibility and effectiveness of introducing ultrasonic (acoustic energy) to the downhole rock prior to fracking to increase porosity and permeability once the stimulation takes place. “It's all about supplying energy into the formation to release hydrocarbons,” explained ORNL researcher Joanna McFarlane. “Think of a sponge filled with water,” Richard Hale, another ORNL researcher added. “The water doesn’t come out of the pores until you squeeze it. Acoustic energy is really, really good at squeezing these pores. In small core sample–size experiments placed in acoustic baths, we can see the oil flows easily and rapidly from the rock.” Ultrasonic techniques have previously been used to clear debris near the surface of a well. ORNL researchers believe the same technique might be applicable 8,000 feet below the surface. A team of researchers at Los Alamos National Lab believe shale stimulation will benefit from understanding previous tectonic movements and water seepage forces not previously considered. A mathematical model shows how branches form off vertical cracks along the wellbore during the fracking process. Further research, they believe, will help engineers better understand how to optimize fracture pumping rates and the viscosity of the fluids pumped. BR
Efficiency Through Engineering and Design STV Energy Services, Inc., provides engineering, design, procurement, project management and construction management services to the natural gas, liquid petroleum, and pipeline transportation markets for projects from concept to completion. Strategically located throughout the U.S. to provide continuous services to our oil and gas clientele. • • • • • • • • •
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