Effect of Conductivity on Horizontal-Well Pressure-Behavior

Abstract

SUMMARY This study investigates the effect of pressure drop within the horizontal section on horizontal-well responses. A general, semi-analytical model that couples wellbore and reservoir hydraulics is presented. Dimensionless groups are defined to correlate the effect of wellbore hydraulics on horizontal-well responses. Flux and pressure distributions along the length of the well are investigated and the validity of the infinite-conductivity assumption is discussed. Short- and long-term characteristics of pressure responses along with asymptotic expressions are documented.