Optimisation of hydraulic fracturing design to improve oil production from Oligocene reservoirs by maximising net present value
Abstract
Results of exploration and appraisal drilling in Cuu Long basin indicate that Tra Tan and Tra Cu Oligocene reservoirs show high potential of hydrocarbon with average porosity ranging from 10 - 15%, and reservoir permeability of 0.1 - 5 mD. However, the big problem with these reservoirs is very low conductivity and connectivity of fractures, therefore reservoir stimulations, such as hydraulic fracturing, are necessary to achieve maximum oil and gas production. The paper presents the Unified Fracture Design method (UFD) of Economides for optimal proppant mass based on maximisation of the net present value. At the same time, the 2D PKN-C fracture geometry model is used to calculate the total fracture area for optimal proppant mass. The successful application of hydraulic fracturing during well completion for Oligocence reservoirs has contributed to improvement of oil and gas recovery factor in Cuu Long basin.
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