Open Access

ARTICLE

Development of an Index System for the Optimization of Shut-In and Flowback Stages in Shale Gas Wells

Weiyang Xie^1,2, Cheng Chang^1,2, Ziqin Lai^1,2,*, Sha Liu^1,2, Han Xiao^1,2

1 Shale Gas Research Institute, PetroChina Southwest Oil & Gasfield Company, Chengdu, 610051, China
2 Shale Gas Evaluation and Exploitation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, 610051, China

* Corresponding Author: Ziqin Lai. Email:

Fluid Dynamics & Materials Processing 2025, 21(6), 1417-1438. https://doi.org/10.32604/fdmp.2025.060956

Received 13 November 2024; Accepted 21 March 2025; Issue published 30 June 2025

Abstract

In the context of post-stimulation shale gas wells, the terms “shut-in” and “flowback” refer to two critical phases that occur after hydraulic fracturing (fracking) has been completed. These stages play a crucial role in determining both the well’s initial production performance and its long-term hydrocarbon recovery. By establishing a comprehensive big data analysis platform, the flowback dynamics of over 1000 shale gas wells were analyzed in this work, leading to the development of an index system for evaluating flowback production capacity. Additionally, a shut-in chart was created for wells with different types of post-stimulation fracture networks, providing a structured approach to optimizing production strategies. A dynamic analysis method for flowback was also developed, using daily pressure drop and artificial fracture conductivity as key indicators. This method offers a systematic and effective approach to managing the shut-in and flowback processes for gas wells. Field trials demonstrated significant improvements: the probability of sand production was reduced, gas breakthrough time was extended, artificial fracture conductivity was enhanced, and the average estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) per well increased.

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Keywords

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