Integrated flow model for evaluating maximum fracture spacing in horizontal wells

Multi-stage fractured horizontal wells are extensively used in unconventional reservoir; hence, optimizing the spacing between these hydraulic fractures is essential. Fracture spacing is an important factor that influences the production efficiency and costs. In this study, maximum fracture spacing in low-permeability liquid reservoirs is studied by building an integrated flow model incorporating key petrophysical characteristics. First, a kinematic equation for non-Darcy seepage flow is constructed using the fractal theory to consider the non-homogeneous characteristics of the stimulated rock volume area (StRV) and its stress sensitivity. Then, the kinematic equation is used to build an integrated mathematical model of one-dimensional steady-state flow within the StRV to analytically determine the pressure distribution in StRV. The resultant pressure distribution is utilized to propose an optimal value for the maximum fracture spacing. Finally, the effects of fractal index, initial matrix permeability, depletion, and stress sensitivity coefficient on the limit disturbed distance and pressure distribution are studied. This study not only enriches the fundamental theory of nonlinear seepage flow mechanics but also provides some technical guidance for choosing appropriate fracture spacing in horizontal wells.