Title: An Investigation of Fluid Leakoff Phenomena
Employing a High-Pressure Simulator
Author(s): D.L. Lord, Halliburton Energy Services,
P.S. Vinod, S.N. Shah and Milton L. Bishop, The University
of Oklahoma
Presentation: SPE Annual Conference and
Exhibition
Location: Dallas, Texas USA
Date: October 22-25, 1995
Abstract: This paper describes the results of
fluid-loss tests conducted with various hydraulic fracturing
fluids through the use of a large-scale, high-temperature,
high-pressure simulator (HPS) that can perform dynamic
fluid-loss experiments over a large surface area under 1,000
psi differential pressure. Nearly all fluid-loss studies
previously reported in the literature have described
laboratory tests involving small-core plugs having surface
area of approximately 11 cm2. In contrast, the fluid-loss
data collected in the HPS are over a significantly larger
surface area, approximately 3912 cm2. Results form the HPS
were compared to laboratory data, and significant difference
in spurt-loss values were found. Surface texture was also
found to be a significant factor in determining the extent
of filter-cake formation. The paper provides insight into
the differences between fluid-loss control mechanism
displayed by linear polymer solutions and crosslinked gels.
Experiments specifically designed to evaluate various
hypotheses were performed to determine the significance of
external filter cake on fluid-loss control of crosslinked
fluids. Conventional fracturing fluids and additives were
found to be inefficient in controlling fluid loss to natural
fractures in a rock matrix.