Analysis of slug test data from hydraulically fractured coalbed methane wells

Abstract

This paper presents new type curves for analyzing slug tests in hydraulically fractured coal seams. The type curves were developed using a finite-conductivity, vertical fracture model and are presented in terms of three parameters -- dimensionless wellbore storage coefficient, dimensionless fracture conductivity, and fracture-face skin. With these new curves, we may estimate the hydraulic fracture half-length, the formation permeability, and the fracture conductivity. We also present a procedure for using the new curves and illustrate the procedure with an example.