Understanding fracture performance by integrating well testing and fracture modeling

This paper presents case histories and field data that detail the applicati on of well test data to calibrate fracture models, understand fracture perf ormance, and optimize treatment designs. The paper includes field results f rom gas reservoirs in the Rocky Mountains and west Texas. The case historie s also illustrate the application of postfracture pressure-buildup data to identify reasons for fracture treatment problems and to confirm treatment s uccess. The paper also includes a novel data set that illustrates fracture performance from a liquid CO2 stimulation (no sand, no water) in west Texas . The case histories illustrate the importance of integrating well test dat a with fracture treatment optimization, showing how this process can improv e our ability to reliably make multimillion-dollar decisions concerning pro ppant selection and fracture treatment size.