Full Fluid-Solid Cohesive Finite-Element Model to Simulate Near Wellbore Fractures
Abstract
This paper presents finite-element simulation for hydraulic fracture's initiation, propagation, and sealing in the near wellbore region. A full fluid solid coupling module is developed by using pore pressure cohesive elements. The main objective of this study is to investigate the hypothesis of wellbore hoop stress increase by fracture sealing. Anisotropic stress state has been used with assignment of individual criteria for fracture initiation and propagation. Our results demonstrate that fracture sealing in "wellbore strengthening" cannot increase the wellbore hoop stress beyond its upper limit when no fractures exist. However, this will help to restore part or all of the wellbore hoop stress lost during fracture propagation.
Recommended Citation
S. H. Salehi and R. Nygaard, "Full Fluid-Solid Cohesive Finite-Element Model to Simulate Near Wellbore Fractures," Journal of Energy Resources Technology, vol. 137, no. 1, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Aug 2014.
The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1115/1.4028251
Department(s)
Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Cohesive Zone Model; Fracture Sealing; Fracture Width; Hoop Stress Restoration; Wellbore Hoop Stress; Wellbore Strengthening; Hydraulic Fracturing; Oil Field Equipment; Residual Stresses; Restoration; Finite Element Method
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
0195-0738
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2015 American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Aug 2014
