Numerical Simulation of Proppant Dynamics in a Rough Inclined Fracture

Although the dynamics of proppant (small ceramic balls used to prevent opened fractures from closing on release pressure) have been subject several numerical studies over recent years, large-scale inclined exist in unconventional reservoirs for which relevant information is still missing. In present study, this problem investigated numerically considering influence factors such as fracture roughness, inclination, particle size, injection rate and fluid viscosity. The results show that a rough wall enables travel farther cover larger areas. inclination angle has little effect dune but significant suspension zone. area zone increases with decrease angle, its value an 15° 20 times at 90°. Small high rate, fracturing viscosity beneficial transport; vice versa they hinder settling phenomena.