Productivity analysis of horizontal wells intercepted by multiple finite-conductivity fractures

Horizontal wells in the anisotropic reservoirs can be stimulated by hydraulic fracturing in order to create multiple finite-conductivity vertical fractures. Several methods for evaluating the productivity of the horizontal wells have been presented in the literature. With such methods, however, it is still difficult to obtain an accurate result. This paper firstly presents the dimensionless conductivity theory of vertical fractures. Then models for calculating the equivalent wellbore radius and the skin factor due to flow convergence to the well bore are proposed after analyzing the steady-state flow in porous reservoirs. By applying the superposition principle to the pressure drop, a new method for evaluating the productivity of horizontal wells intercepted by multiple finite-conductivity fractures is developed. The influence of fracture conductivity and fracture half length on the horizontal well productivity is quantitatively analyzed with a synthetic case. Optimum fracture number and fracture space are further discussed in this study. The results prove that the method outlined here should be useful to design optimum fracturing of horizontal wells.

Tests and Simulation Analysis on Fracture Performance of Concrete

To obtain the fracture parameters of concrete, fracture tests were conducted with three-point bending beam method aiming at 30 concrete beams with different sizes and different intensity. The concrete specimen with prefabricated crack to determine the fracture parameters of concrete were conducted and the fracture performance of the specimen was analyzed. The test results show that, initial fracture toughness is unrelated to the size of specimens; while unstable fracture toughness is related to the size of specimens. As for specimens of bastard size, when concrete intensity is relatively low, unstable fracture toughness increases along with the increase of intensity; when concrete intensity is relatively high, unstable fracture toughness will decrease; when concrete intensity increases continuously, unstable fracture toughness will further increase somewhat. As for specimens of standard size, unstable fracture toughness will increase along with the increase of intensity. Aiming at concrete beam specimens, we conducted two-dimensional non-linear finite element analysis, obtained the stress intensity factor, and carried out contrastive analysis with the experimental results.

Overall Evaluation of the Effect of Residual Stress Induced by Shot Peening in the Improvement of Fatigue Fracture Resistance for Metallic Materials

Before 1980s,the circular suspension spring in automobile subjected to torsion fatigue load,under the cyclic normal tensile stresses,the majority of fatigue fracture occurred was in normal tensile fracture mode（NTFM）and the fracture surface was under 45°diagonal.Because there exists the interaction between the residual stresses induced by shot peening and the applied cyclic normal tensile stresses in NTFM,which represents as＂stress strengthening mechanism＂,shot peening technology could be used for improving the fatigue fracture resistance（FFR）of springs.However,since 1990s up to date,in addition to regular NTFM,the fatigue fractures occurred of peened springs from time to time are in longitudinal shear fracture mode（LSFM）or transverse shear fracture mode（TSFM）with the increase of applied cyclic shear stresses,which leads to a remarkable decrease of FFR.However,LSFM/TSFM can be avoided effectively by means of shot peening treatment again on the peened springs.The phenomena have been rarely happened before.At present there are few literatures concerning this problem.Based upon the results of force analysis of a spring,there is no interaction between the residual stresses by shot peening and the applied cyclic shear stresses in shear fracture.This;means that the effect of＂stress strengthening mechanism＂for improving the FFR of LSFM/TSFM is disappeared basically.During shot peening,however,both of residual stress and cyclic plastic deformed microstructure are induced synchronously like＂twins＂in the surface layer of a spring.It has been found for the first time by means of force analysis and experimental results that the modified microstructure in the＂twins＂as a＂structure strengthening mechanism＂can improve the FFR of LSFM/TSFM.At the same time,it is;also shown that the optimum technology of shot peening strengthening must have both＂stress strengthening mechanism＂and＂structure strengthening mechanism＂simultaneously so that the FFR of both NTFM and LSFM/TSFM can be improved by shot peening.

Dynamic fracture toughness of high strength metals under impact loading:increase or decrease

An elusive phenomenon is observed in previous investigations on dynamic fracture that the dynamic fracture toughness （DFT） of high strength metals always increases with the loading rate on the order of TPa.m1/2.s-1. For the purpose of verification, variation of DFT with the loading rate for two high strength steels commonly used in the aviation industry, 30CrMnSiA and 40Cr, is studied in this work. Results of the experiments are compared, which were conducted on the modified split Hopkinson pressure bar （SHPB） apparatus, with striker velocities ranging from 9.2 to 24.1 m/s and a constant value of 16.3 m/s for 30CrMnSiA and 40Cr, respectively. It is observed that for 30CrMnSiA, the crack tip loading rate increases with the increase of the striker velocity, while the fracture initiation time and the DFT simultaneously decrease. However, in the tests of 40Cr, there is also an increasing tendency of DFT, similar to other reports. Through an in-depth investigation on the relationship between the dynamic stress intensity factor （DSIF） and the loading rate, it is concluded that the generally increasing tendency in previous studies could be false, which is induced from a limited striker velocity domain and the errors existing in the experimental and numerical processes. To disclose the real dependency of DFT on the loading rate, experimentsneed to be performed in a comparatively large striker velocity range.

Numerical simulation of high-resolution azimuthal resistivity laterolog response in fractured reservoirs

The high-resolution azimuthal resistivity laterolog response in a fractured formation was numerically simulated using a three-dimensional finite element method. Simulation results show that the azimuthal resistivity is determined by fracture dipping as well as dipping direction, while the amplitude differences between deep and shallow laterolog resistivities are mainly controlled by the former. A linear relationship exists between the corrected apparent conductivities and fracture aperture. With the same fracture aperture, the deep and shallow laterolog resistivities present small values with negative separations for low-angle fractures, while azimuthal resistivities have large variations with positive separations for high-angle fractures that intersect the borehole. For dipping fractures, the variation of the azimuthal resistivity becomes larger when the fracture aperture increases. In addition, for high-angle fractures far from the borehole, a negative separation between the deep and shallow resistivities exists when fracture aperture is large as well as high resistivity contrast exists between bedrock and fracture fluid. The decreasing amplitude of dual laterolog resistivity can indicate the aperture of low-angle fractures, and the variation of the deep azimuthal resistivity can give information of the aperture of high-angle fractures and their position relative to the borehole.

A novel approach of tight oil reservoirs stimulation based on fracture controlling optimization and design

To deal with the stress interference caused by simultaneous propagation of multiple fractures and the wettability reversal and physical property changes of the reservoir caused by fracturing fluid getting in during large-volume fracturing of tight oil reservoirs through a horizontal well, a non-planar 3D fracture growth model was built, wettability reversal characterizing parameters and change of relative permeability curve were introduced to correct the production prediction model of fractured horizontal well, a fracturing design optimization software(Fr Smart) by integrating geological and engineering data was developed, and a fracturing design optimization approach for tight oil reservoirs based on fracture control was worked out. The adaptability of the method was analyzed and the fracture parameters of horizontal wells in tight oil reservoirs were optimized. The simulation results show that fracturing technology based on fracture control is suitable for tight oil reservoirs, and by optimizing fracture parameters, this technology makes it possible to produce the maximum amount of reserves in the well-controlled unit of unconventional reservoirs. The key points of fracturing design optimization based on fracture control include increasing lateral length of and reducing the row spacing between horizontal wells, increasing perforation clusters in one stage to decrease the spacing of neighboring fractures, and also avoiding interference of old and new fracturing wells. Field tests show that this technology can increase single well production and ultimate recovery. Using this technology in developing unconventional resources such as tight oil reservoirs in China will enhance the economics significantly.

Fracture propagation in sandstone and slateeLaboratory experiments, acoustic emissions and fracture mechanics

Fracturing of highly anisotropic rocks is a problem often encountered in the stimulation of unconventional hydrocarbon or geothermal reservoirs by hydraulic fracturing. Fracture propagation in isotropic material is well understood but strictly isotropic rocks are rarely found in nature. This study aims at the examination of fracture initiation and propagation processes in a highly anisotropic rock, specifically slate. We performed a series of tensile fracturing laboratory experiments under uniaxial as well as triaxial loading. Cubic specimens with edge lengths of 150 mm and a central borehole with a diameter of13 mm were prepared from Fredeburg slate. An experiment using the rather isotropic Bebertal sandstone as a rather isotropic rock was also performed for comparison. Tensile fractures were generated using the sleeve fracturing technique, in which a polymer tube placed inside the borehole is pressurized to generate tensile fractures emanating from the borehole. In the uniaxial test series, the loading was varied in order to observe the transition from strength-dominated fracture propagation at low loading magnitudes to stress-dominated fracture propagation at high loading magnitudes.

Effects of leptin on femoral fracture in rats

In this study, our objective was to evaluate effects of leptin on fracture healing in rats. Seventy two male SpragueDawley（SD） rats were randomized into 3 groups. Standardized femoral fractures were created in all the rats. Group A was treated with 1 mL normal saline（NS）, group B with 0.3μg/kg leptin in 1 mL NS, and group C with 0.5μg/kg leptin in 1 mL NS for 2 weeks intraperitoneally. Each group was divided into three subgroups including 8 rats for evaluation at 2, 4 and 8 weeks. Radiological evaluation showed that callus formation of group B and C was all significantly higher than group A at 8 weeks（P=0.04 and P = 0.013, respectively）. There was no statistically significant difference in fracture healing between group B and group C at 8 weeks（P = 0.197）. Histological evaluation revealed fracture healing of group B and C was better than group A at 4 weeks（P=0.01 and P= 0.002,respectively） and 8 weeks（P = 0.008 and P= 0.003, respectively）. Micro-computed tomography（Micro-CT） analysis demonstrated that greater amounts of bony callus and evidence of bone fusion were observed in group B and C at 4 weeks（P = 0.02 and P = 0.04, respectively） and 8 weeks（P= 0.005 and P = 0.001, respectively） compared to group A. Group C also had better fracture healing than group B at 8 weeks（P = 0.01）. In conclusion, leptin has a positive effect on rat femoral fracture healing.

Incubation time fracture criterion for FEM simulations

The paper is discussing problems connected with embedment of the incubation time criterion for brittle fracture into finite element computational schemes. Incubation time fracture criterion is reviewed; practical questions of its numerical implementation are extensively discussed. Several examples of how the incubation time fracture criterion can be used as fracture condition in finite element computations are given. The examples include simulations of dynamic crack propagation and arrest, impact crater formation （i.e. fracture in initially intact media）, spall fracture in plates, propagation of cracks in pipelines. Applicability of the approach to model initiation, development and arrest of dynamic fracture is claimed.

A Study on Propagation Mechanism of Fracture Systems in Rock Masses by Discontinuity Displacement Method

The main task of fracture mechanics of rock masses is the study on the propagating mechanism of fractures in rock masses , which can be efficiently conducted by discontinuty displacement (DD) numerical evaluation . Firstly ,the element stress and displacement are analysed and the principle and steps of the numerical calculation of stress intensity factor and fracture extension force are introduced .The numerical results of parallel and echelon fracture systems ,which are compared with real field fractures .are presented. Finally . a simple engineering application example is presented .

Fracture of proximal radius combined with dislocation of the radial head:a case report

Forearm fractures are prevalent which include radius fractures,ulna fractures,or both radius and ulna fractures.Proximal radius fractures combined with dislocations of the radial heads are rare and easily misdiagnosed.The authors present and discuss a case of proximal radius fractures associated with radial head dislocations.A 36 years old male was admitted to the hospital due to pain and activity limitation in his left elbow for 7 hours due to a car accident.An X-ray of the left elbow joint revealed a“left radius fracture with surrounding soft tissue edema”.During the procedure,the radial head was found to be dislocated forward.A 3.0 mm anchor was used to fix the annular ligament.Radius fractures combined dislocations of the radial heads are rare and may be missing the diagnosis.Before undergoing surgery,the possibility of elbow dislocation should be evaluated.Wire anchors can provide reliable fixation.

Study of treatment of scapular fractures with associated clavicle fractures

To explore the treatment methods for scapular fractures associated with clavicle fractures.Methods Of 23 cases with scapular fractures associated with clavicle fractures,13 treated conservatively took the function exercise of shoulder joint after two months and 10 treated with open reduction and plate fixation reconstruction began the function exercise of shoulder joint four weeks after operation.The follow up averaged 12 months.Results All patients were healed up.18 cases were followed up,of them 8 cases were treated surgically,10 cases,conservatively.Of eight cases treated surgically,seven got excellent functional recovery of the shoulder joint and one satisfactory.In the meantime,of 10 cases treated conservatively,the recovery of shoulder joint was excellent in six,good in three and poor in one.Conclusion As for scapular fractures with associated clavicle fractures,open reduction and plate fixation reconstruction is a good treatment method for it can keep the stability and the balance of shoulder joint and is helpful for early functional exercise and recovery of the shoulder joint.7 refs,5 figs.

CHARACTERISTIC TRANSITION TEMPERATURE OF BRITTLENESS OF LOW CARBON STEEL

On the basis of analysis of low carbon steel fracture macro-features and micro-processes at low temperature,the definition was given of the characteristic transition temperature of brittleness,T_(pm),and its physical meaning was expounded.Discussion was carried out of phys- ical characteristic of variation at T_(pm) in respect of the fracture toughness and property of crack arrest.In addition,research was made on the application of T_(pm),which can give infor- mation about the transition of the fracture toughness,the property of crack arrest and critical crack size,to estimation the brittleness of low carbon steel at low temperatures.

Rotary self-locking intramedullary nail for long tubular bone fractures

Background Intramedullary nails had been widely used in the treatment of long-bone fractures because of less interference of fractures and center bearing biomechanical advantage. However, it had been also found many shortcomings such as broken nails, delayed healing and was modified in order to achieve better efficacy and reduce complications. The aim of the present study is to compare the efficacy of rotary self-locking intramedullary nails （RSIN） with that of interlocking intramedullary nails （IIN） in the treatment of long-bone fractures.

Experimental and Numerical Study of Shear Fracture in Brittle Materials with Interference of Initial Double Cracks

A simultaneous experimental and numerical study of shear fracture of concrete-like materials is carried out using Brazilian disc specimens with initial double edge cracks and fourpoint bending beam specimens with double edge-notches.The interference effects of two cracks/notches are investigated through varied ligament angles and crack lengths.It is shown that shear fracturing paths change remarkably with the initial ligament angles and crack lengths.The cracked specimens are numerically simulated by an indirect boundary element method.A comparison between the numerical results and the experimental ones shows good agreement.

Punchability and Punching Fracture Behavior of High Silicon Steel Sheets

The 0.2-0.3mm thick cold-rolled sheets and annealed sheets of high silicon steel were produced by rolling process,then punching tests were carried out at room temperature to 150℃.The punchability and punching fracture behavior were investigated by means of scanning electron microscope（SEM）and electron back-scattered diffraction（EBSD）.It is found that cold-rolled sheets of high silicon steel show good punchability under the condition of 0.01 mm punch-die clearance and at the temperature of 100℃;the punchability of annealed sheets with fine grain size is better than that of annealed sheets with coarse grain size;the punching temperature of 150℃is suitable for annealed high silicon steel sheets especially with coarse grain size on account of punching edge quality.The major cleavage planes of annealed high silicon steel sheets are{100}crystallographic planes on which brittle fracture occurs at low temperatures.The cleavage systems include{100}〈110〉and{100}〈100〉,and cleavage fracture is completed by one or both of them.The punchability of high silicon steel sheets is related with punching temperature,grain size and ordering degree.Reducing ordering degree,increasing punching temperature,as well as refining grain size can improve the ductility and punchability of high silicon steel sheets.