Patent · US Expired

Methods and apparatus for multiple fracturing of subterranean formations

US7431090B2 · kind B2 · utility

37Cited by
9References
18Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJun 22, 2005
Grant dateOct 7, 2008
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 9, 2025

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
  • CPC primaryE21B43/114
  • WIPO fieldCivil engineering
  • WIPO sectorOther fields

Abstract

The invention relates to methods and apparatus for creating multiple fractures in subterranean formations. The apparatus is a jetting tool having a plurality of sets of jetting nozzles so that the sets of nozzles are substantially parallel to one another such that parallel cavities may be formed substantially simultaneously in the formation. The jetting nozzles may be adapted to provide a fluid jet that flares outwardly from the nozzle. The nozzles also may be aligned such that cavities in the formation overlap to form a single cavity. The nozzles may be further adapted so that holes jetted into the casing thereby are still spaced from one another. Methods of fracturing subterranean formations using the apparatus are also disclosed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.