Schlumberger Extends Fiber-Based Fracturing Technique

Fiber-based fracturing fluids now address wells in 150°F-400°F range
HOUSTON, September 28, 2004 - Schlumberger Oilfield Services announced today that it has extended its Fiber Assisted Transport* hydraulic fracturing technology to enhance proppant distribution in wells with temperatures ranging from 150°F to 400°F.

Successful applications of this technology throughout the North America tight gas market have resulted in approximately 100 treatments pumped thus far in 2004. In a recent East Texas study, average daily production rates were increased by 100% over the first three months of production as compared to conventionally treated offset wells. This yielded an incremental 54 MMSCF from the Fiber Assisted Transport treated well over the same three-month period.

"I think Fiber Assisted Transport gives you several advantages over conventional fluids," said Tony Lewis, senior production engineer, Hunt Petroleum. "It allows you to lower your gel loading and increase your breakers with the confidence that you have proppant transport characteristics not related to your fluid viscosity."

The fracturing technology provides a mechanical means -- a network of fibers -- to enhance proppant placement and distribution in tight gas fracturing applications. The fiber network provides proppant transport characteristics during the critical pre-closure period of the fracturing treatment, preventing proppant settling. Following the fracture treatment, the fibers decompose as the well is produced, leaving a uniform, more productive proppant pack.

"With the success of our fiber-based fracturing system in high temperatures, it was natural to extend its temperature range to address a larger portion of our client's wells, enabling improved sustained production in tight gas applications," said John Lassek, product champion, Well Services, Schlumberger Oilfield Services.