Evolution of a high near-wellbore pressure-loss-treatment strategy

Hydraulic fracturing is used extensively to improve production in the Coope r basin of central Australia. Fracturing conditions vary, with closure-stre ss gradients varying from 0.6 psi/ft to more than 1.0 psi/ft, Near-wellbore pressure loss (NWBPL) is the most serious obstacle to successful proppant placement, Techniques to remediate, mitigate, and tolerate NWBPL were studi ed and field trials were performed. Knowledge obtained from these trials cu lminated in a strategy to manage high levels of NWBPL and place optimal tre atments in these environments.