We present the digital slot — a tool for the development of new hydraulic fracturing technologies via digitization of slurry flow in narrow channels. We consider slurry containing fluid, proppant, and fiber components. The flow is described by a continuum mathematical model based on the lubrication theory. The numerical algorithm utilizes Lagrangian approach with finite volume pressure solver. We present the results of laboratory validation and simulation examples showing the key effects affecting solids transport in hydraulic fracturing: settling, bridging, gravity slumping, materials degradation, viscosity contrast, and bank formation.

Keywords:
hydraulic fracturing, obstacle, experiment, fiber, fracturing materials, fracturing fluid, viscous fluid, pressure distribution, validation, digital slot
Subjects:
Hydraulic Fracturing, Fracturing materials (fluids, proppant)
Copyright 2021, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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