The Principle of Induced Stress Change Caused by Multi-Wells and Multi-Fractures during Synchronous Fracturing of Cluster Horizontal Wells in Tight Sandstone Gas Reservoirs

During synchronous fracturing of horizontal well clusterd, the induced stresses generated by multiple wells and fractures may significantly affect fracturing design and the formation of complex fractures. Few studies have been conducted related to patterns of changes in induced stress fields. In the study that concerns itself with this topic, the mathematic model for the horizontal stress field between wells was constructed. By using linear superposition and vector representation, patterns of changes in induced stress fields between two wells at different fracture parameters and well spacing were highlighted. Research results demonstrated variable impact based on factors on induced stress field. To be more specific, the induced stress fields were extremely sensitive to changes in fracture lengths and well spacing. The maximum induced stress could be observed at the central point between two neighboring wells, whereas the minimum stress could be observed at the sidewalls. To divert fractures to generate complicated fracture systems, it was necessary to establish suitable matching among fracturing techniques, fracture length, width and well spacing. Underground micro-seismic monitoring results in Daniudi DP43 well cluster verified accuracy of above research results. In addition, these results might also provide an acceptable explanation for the high productivity of synchronous fracturing operations in zippered fractures of horizontal well clusters. Generally speaking, a clear understanding of changes in induced stress fields in horizontal clusters might provide a reliable foundation for the determination of optimal well spacing and a fracturing program for horizontal well clusters to develop tight sandstone formations.