Modeling of multiple fractures growth during multistage hydraulic fracturing based on cell-based pseudo 3D model

Abstract

The paper presents a mathematical model describing the process of formation of multiple fractures in inhomogeneous rock formation. The features of its numerical implementation and the results of implementation are given. Modelling of fracture growth dynamics is carried out in the frame of cell-based pseudo 3D model, taking into account the associated solution of the problems of fracture mechanics and multiphase flow of a proppant mixture acting as a proppant dispersed phase and a power law rheology fluid. To calculate the flow parameters at the points of initiation of multiple fractures for given wellhead data, the model implements the calculation of hydraulics in the wellbore based on a homogeneous multiphase model. Pathway of fracture development is determined for arbitrary field of the strained deformed state of the formation and takes into account its change caused by stress shadow effect. The developed model allows to evaluate the efficiency of the application of the multi-stage fracturing technology with several perforation clusters or hydraulic fracturing ports in a single stage, as well as to optimize the completion of a horizontal well.