Single-phase flow regimes in a discrete fracture model

Typical flow regimes occurring in a finite fractured reservoir, occupied by a single-phase liquid, are quantified, using approximate analytical expres sions. Estimates are provided for the time at the beginning and end of each regime and of the expected pressure drawdown within each regime. The centr al result is the derivation of an approximate r(4)/t self-similarity for th e bilinear flow regime, and new analytical expressions are obtained for the early and late development of this bilinear regime. The evolution of flow regimes is problem dependent, and examples of slope halving and slope doubl ing are provided for the transition between the first and second regimes. E xamples discussed and quantified include radial and linear flows, fracture flows, bilinear flows, parallel flows, block drawdown, and finite fracture regimes.