The solution methodology of a three-dimensional hydraulic fracturing simulator (MFRAC-II) for use on personal computers is described. The Simulator is design oriented and user-friendly with menu- driven pre- and post-processors. It has been formulated and structured to be used as an everyday design tool.

The coupled rock and fluid mechanics equations governing fracture propagation are presented. These non-linear partial differential equations are then transformed and solved using integral methods. The criteria for fracture propagation and the effect fracture toughness and confining stress contrast has on fracture propagation are also discussed.

Comparative studies with full 3-D hydraulic fracturing simulators are included to illustrate the diversity of MFRAC-II. These comparison studies range from fractures dominated by pure rock mechanics (fracture toughness) to fractures dominated by viscous driven fluids. The fractures range from highly uncontained to very well contained fractures (1/3 ⩽ L/H ➝ ∞).

Keywords:
stress contrast, simulation, fracture, fracture propagation, hyfrac, coefficient, sneddon, upstream oil & gas, solution methodology, viscosity
Subjects:
Hydraulic Fracturing
Copyright 1989, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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