Conventional hybrid fluid design limits production gains

To optimize stimulation of plug-and-perf wells in the Nemaha Osage formation, an operator experimented over the last several years with small changes in proppant concentrations and volumes, pump rates, and fracturing fluids. By the beginning of 2017, the operator had migrated to hybrid fracturing designs combining conventional slickwater with guar-based linear gel.

However, the operator was aware of technical studies from the Stim-Lab Proppant Consortium and from other operators indicating that hybrid fracturing designs, even with low guar-polymer content, can limit well production. Therefore, the operator sought new options to optimize stimulation design.

Viscous slickwater enables higher proppant concentration

Schlumberger proposed replacing the hybrid fracturing fluid design with viscous slickwater to enable more aggressive proppant designs.

Viscous slickwater is an engineered fracturing fluid that combines the operational simplicity and cleanup of conventional slickwater with the proppant transport benefit of a more viscous linear or crosslinked guar gel system—without the guar residue. With viscosity as high as 100 cP and minimal fluid friction, viscous slickwater fluids enhance proppant-carrying capacity and enable aggressive pumping schedules. The simple fluid design also eliminates the need for a hydration unit, which reduces operational footprint and complexity.