Stimulation · Intervention
Frac Pumps
High pressure pumps that push the fracturing fluid and proppant into the well.
What it does
They pump at a rate and pressure the formation cannot take in radial flow, which opens a fracture in a low permeability reservoir. Proppant, typically sand, holds it open after pumping stops.
Basics
| Pump type | Positive displacement, reciprocating |
| Handles | Abrasive slurries with proppant |
| Used for | Low permeability reservoirs |
| Before the job | Test casing, tubing, wellhead and valves |
Common failures
- Rate or pressure limits exceeded during the treatment
Troubleshooting
- Symptom
- Treating pressure near the maximum allowed
- Likely cause
- Friction or screenout risk
- What to check
- Respect the maximum rates and pressures agreed in the safety meeting