Method for controlling sand production of relatively unconsolidated formations
US5386875A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 18, 1993 |
| Grant date | Feb 7, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 18, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/02
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An improved method for fracturing oil wells is disclosed and claimed herein. In particular, the present invention involves the determination of the direction of fracture propagation, i.e., perpendicular to the minimum stress existing within a given formation and the alignment of perforations produced by a variety of perforating devices with the previously determined direction of fracture propagation. The methods disclosed and claimed herein will eliminate many problems encountered in the prior art, including reducing the pressure required to initiate fractures and reducing the undesirable effects of near wellbore tortuosity. A solidified compound may be placed proximate the fractures to further limit undesirable sand production.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.