Enhanced Injectivity Using Diversion Technology on Hydraulic Fracturing Jobs in Los Llanos Basin

Abstract

Conventional fracturing requires isolating one interval or a set of intervals hydrostatically to ensure the proper placement of proppant mass. This process involves considering various factors such as perforated length, formation permeability, and fluid leak-off performance to define the success of a hydraulic fracture. As the interval size increases, proppant placement becomes more challenging due to heightened fluid leak-off, incompetent fracture width, and increased hydraulic horsepower requirements. To reduce workover rig hours and enhance efficiency in hydraulic fracturing operations, there is a need for added versatility. This paper aims to address this requirement by introducing a state-of-the-art particulate diverter in the Los Llanos basin; the implementation of this latest-generation diverter has proven instrumental in achieving operational goals. Efforts to minimize workover rig hours align with current efficiency initiatives in hydraulic fracturing. The versatility introduced using a particulate diverter is detailed in this paper, showcasing its application in both producer and injector wells. The learning curve associated with the particulate diverter has paved the way for optimizing hydraulic fracturing dynamics, allowing for the execution of up to three pumping stages in a single pumping operation. This paper outlines the workflow developed for the application of particulate diverter technology in multiple wells in the Llanos basin; the success of this implementation is attributed to a comprehensive learning curve that involved various stages, including diagnosis, design, simulations, laboratory tests, execution, and post-work results.