A new process for fracturing wells more intelligently and efficiently has been unveiled by US-based Chevron and hydrocarbon services company Halliburton.
The two companies jointly developed the new process in light of fracturing execution’s dependence on consistency and efficiency. Chevron, the maker of Texaco grease and lubricant products, brought its subsurface and hydraulic fracturing knowledge, which was integrated into an algorithm. This was combined with the ZEUS IQ platform for intelligent fracturing from Halliburton to facilitate a closed feedback loop with control capability. This in turn enables an autonomous workflow whereby the completion process is refined based on real-time data from below the ground. This ultimately helps enhance performance from the asset.
Chevron’s Rockies Business Unit vice president, Kim McHugh, said about the new process:
“At Chevron, we focus on continuously advancing asset performance safely through the innovation of our subject matter experts, new technology and strategic collaborations. This real-time adaptive feedback loop is expected to further drive efficiencies and improve overall asset performance.”
This and other groundbreaking work on closed-loop automation is changing how operators develop shale and tight rock formations through hydraulic fracturing. Whereas they had to previously rely on forecasting performance, the process can now adapt in real time based on the actual conditions in the local environment. The new process also brings environmental benefits such as reductions in surface impact, emissions and fluid use. The new approach could well be adopted by other operators in North America and set a new standard for hydraulic fracturing.
