Perforating for Stimulation: An Engineered Solution

Point-source perforating has reduced fracture-stimulation expenses in the south Texas Lobo trend. Although the producing intervals frequently exceed 100 ft, the operator typically perforates the bottom 5 ft of the interval. Data collected during perforating are used to design optimized fracture-stimulation treatments. The optimized treatments average 55% less proppant than the jobs designed previously with conventional practices that had perforations across the entire pay interval. The new well's initial production and sustained performance has been higher than conventionally stimulated wells of similar potential. In addition, the point-source-perforated wells have produced significantly less proppant than similar wells with perforations across the entire pay interval. Point-source perforating has reduced the cost of perforating, proppant, fluids, equipment rentals, and cleanup. This case-history paper presents the following. Historical account of previous completion practices (limited entry, multiple-stage fracturing, and full-zone perforating). Discussion of the "perforating for stimulation" fracturing technique currently used. Comparison of production results. Formation-evaluation methods (logs and bottomhole gauges). Perforating methods (phasing, charges, and perforating-interval selection). Results from a recompletion confirming that depletion has occurred.