Large, Comprehensive Slot Flow Testing

In a typical unconventional reservoir, proppant and fluid encounter multiple factors. Thus maximizing the learnings on each test can be achieved by incorporating various equipment and material aspects. PropTester has dedicated over 2,500 square feet for flow loop and proppant transport testing. Our facility tests proppant and fluids using a customizable 4′ x 8′ and 10’x20′ Slot Flow Wall. This patent-pending equipment is capable of significant factors, including tortuosity, leak-off, and the ability for in-situ analysis of the materials after being pumped. The wall is highly customizable to accommodate various testing regimes and flow patterns. Multiple cameras throughout the structure document the slurry behavior through the acrylic panes. It is also possible to dye the frac sand to better visualize the segregation of the proppant while pumping.  Flow meters, pressure transducers, a densitometer, and a linear variable differential transformer assist in monitoring the movement of the material and structure throughout the test. Design features are also available to be utilized. For example, in addition to a tortuous path, the equipment can study a winged (4’x8′ only) or a transverse fracture with a slight modification. The patent-pending equipment is designed for disassembly for detailed analysis of the proppant and fluid. Data analyses can include but is not limited to sieve analysis, proppant concentration, fluid viscosity, and proppant conductivity testing on the samples.

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