Numerical Simulation of Fracture Propagation of Multi-Cluster Perforation and Fracturing in Horizontal Wells: A Case Study of Mahu Oilfield

Abstract

Mahu oilfield is a typical tight gravel oil reservoir. At present, long-stage multi-cluster fracturing is widely used for reservoir stimulation, and multiple-clusters treatment is realized through cluster perforation. Field monitoring indicates that not all perforation clusters produce hydraulic fractures in the fracturing process, and each cluster of hydraulic fractures in the section will expand unevenly. The unbalanced expansion of multiple clusters of fractures in the section seriously affects the effect of reservoir reconstruction of horizontal wells. Aiming at the long-stage multi-cluster fracturing of horizontal wells, a multi-fracture propagation calculation model considering wellbore flow, performance friction, different fracture criteria at the tip, and the interaction stress among multiple fractures is established in this paper. In order to improve the calculation efficiency, an explicit Runge Kutta Legendre algorithm is proposed to solve the structural mesh, and the solution program is compiled, which provides a basis for the theoretical analysis and rapid solution of the mechanism of multiple fracture growth. Finally, taking Mahu oil field as an example, we calculate the multi fracture propagation and flow distribution under different geological conditions, perforation conditions, and construction parameters. The research results will help to improve the fracturing efficiency of long-stage multi-cluster fractures.