On Some Characteristic Features of Fractured-Horizontal Wells and Conclusions Drawn Thereof

Abstract

Summary The model developed by Raghavan et al. (1997) is used to examine the characteristics of horizontal wells produced through multiple, transverse vertical fractures. The features of models of horizontal wells that drain a reservoir through multiple fractures are highlighted from the viewpoint of the use of commonly used approximate models. Rigorous and approximate predictions are compared. It is shown that scaling is needed to ensure that volumes drained by approximate models are indeed correct. To that end, information on volumes drained by individual fractures is noted.