Successful Selective Fractures in a Horizontal Well Demonstrate the Effectiveness of an Abrasive Jetting and Stimulation Process in Mexico

Abstract

This study delves into the implementation of an integrated completion strategy for a horizontal infill well within a gas reservoir, with a primary focus on enhancing hydrocarbon recovery. The first lateral well in the field served as a testing ground for the combined utilization of Coiled Tubing (CT) and hydraulic fracturing services aimed at optimizing completion strategies and increasing adaptability in the presence of potentially drained zones along the horizontal section. The 1.75-inch CT facilitated a rigless operation, with a calibration run ensuring tool passage through potential restrictions, leading to subsequent Abrasive Jetting (AJ) and hydraulic fracturing operations. Grounded in the well's established petrophysical and structural model, a thoughtful selection of depth facilitated the placement of a bridge plug, with Abrasive Jetting (AJ) establishing effective wellbore-reservoir communication. Diagnostic Fracture Injection Tests (DFIT) were then conducted iteratively to assess the interaction of the infill well with undrained areas. The application of pinpoint stimulation technology demonstrated its capacity to induce fractures through a minimal number of holes, allowing for increased control over initiation sites and improved fracture height coverage. This approach enhances well productivity by increasing the fracture area in contact with the formation. Practicality and cost-effectiveness were validated using CT for various well-intervention procedures, complemented by Abrasive Jetting (AJ) assisted fracturing to minimize fracture entry friction. The multi-stage operation revealed successful drainage of two zones during the intervention. The acquisition of reservoir data for simulation purposes was pivotal in shaping future field development plans and strategically placing additional lateral wells to optimize recovery factors. To maximize hydrocarbon recovery and minimize costs, the AJ process and hydraulic fracturing techniques must be carefully optimized for economic feasibility. Reservoir simulations are employed to refine treatments for future projects, leveraging insights from pressure profiles and interactions with offset wells. The lessons learned from this well provide valuable insights for upcoming lateral infill wells, contributing to the continual improvement of execution methodologies. This first infill well not only validated the hypothesis that reserves persist beyond the drainage radius of previous wells but also demonstrated a doubling of expected production levels. The success of this endeavor underscores the potential advancements in hydrocarbon recovery techniques, with implications extending beyond commercial interests to contribute to the broader understanding of reservoir dynamics and optimal well completion strategies.