Enhancing Hydraulic Fracturing Assessments: A Novel Metric for Operational Efficiency

ABSTRACT: The increasing reliance on horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing to exploit unconventional resources highlights the necessity for a standardized evaluation process (for opetors, service companies, and regulatory agencies) to assess the success of hydraulic fracturing operations. In this study, we introduce a novel approach to evaluating "frac job" performance, focusing on metrics that are closely tied to the engineered completion design of the wellbore and reservoir. Our methodology extends beyond traditional evaluations that primarily focus on achieving target volumes or rates. Instead, we propose a new metric that combines stimulated rock volume, fracture density, proppant concentration factor, stimulation specific factor, and design stimulation score to provide a comprehensive assessment of technical efficiency. Using field data from hydraulic fracturing test site 2, we illustrate how this metric can be applied across various wells, highlighting a spectrum of frac job performance from poorly to excellently executed operations. Our findings support better decision-making for investors and operators, contributing to a more sustainable future for the energy industry.