Title: A Comparative Study of Borate-Crosslinked
Gel Rheology Using Laboratory and Field Scale Fracturing
Simulations.
Author(s): Naval Goel, S.N. Shah, J.D. Willingham,
The University of Oklahoma and D.L. Lord, Halliburton Energy
Services.
Presentation: SPE Annual Conference and
Exhibition
Location: San Antonio, Texas USA
Date: October 5-8, 1997
Abstract: The rheological characteristics of
borate-crosslinked guar gels are studied to compare and
evaluate the scale up of laboratory measurements to an
actual hydraulic fracturing treatment. A fractured formation
was simulated using a 7 ft high by 9.3 ft long, variable gap
width slot at the Fracturing Characterization Facility of
The University of Oklahoma. The facility utilized field-size
mixing and pumping equipment and preconditions the fluid
through shear and temperature history simulators. The fluid
is sheared through 1 ¸ inch OK coiled tubing in lengths up
to 5000 ft to represent the well bore shear prior to making
rheological measurements. From extensive testing with
borate-crosslinked gel, the FFCF has developed a unique
procedure and technique for testing these gels; and the same
procedure was used her. The borate-crosslinked fluid
rheology data were also obtained form laboratory rheometers
of three major service companies, who volunteered to
participate in this cooperative effort. Each company used a
borate-crosslinked gel evaluation method which is an API
based standard testing procedure followed within their
company. Furthermore, each company was supplied with
identical chemical, mixing water, and fluid formulation
procedure.