A new method of predicting network fracture conductivity based on the similitude principle of water and electricity

The conductivity of network fracture is a key factor that affects horizontal well production, but using conductivity cells or modified conductivity cells to test it is uncommon. Several theoretical and empirical models have been developed to estimate network fracture conductivity. This paper develops a new method of calculating network fracture conductivity based on the electrical similitude principle and experimental data. Taking into account the network fracture type, test fluid type, proppant combination ratio, and propped type, an experimental scheme is designed, and a series of network fracture conductivities are obtained indoors. Using the formula for seepage resistance R and a calculation procedure chart, the equivalent conductivity of the 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° types of network fractures are compared between test data and predictions. Comparisons of our experimental data to the prediction data indicate little error, verifying the accuracy of the new method. This predicting method can provide a reference for the fracture network conductivity optimization of shale reservoir multi-staged fracturing.