Modified Approach for Reorientation Fracturing Propagation Trajectory Prediction

Abstract

Reorientation fracturing of post-phase development of conventional low productive formations and pro-phase development of unconventional reservoirs such as shale gas plays and coalbed methane formations has been and will always be of considerable significance for oil/gas development. Conventional reorientation trajectory prediction results cannot exactly match the field actual fracture mapping propagation ones. Based on the discrepancy, this research focuses on the dominant factors influencing re-fracture propagation path and re-recognizes the disturbed stress field. Taking advantage of the proposed Principle of Maximum Circumferential Tensile Stress, the fracture propagation path is numerically modeled, which is more in conformity with the fracture mapping compared with the conventional one. Finally, the importance of proper estimation of reorientation fracturing propagation trajectory is analyzed.