Semi-analytical model of a multi-wing fractured vertical well in linear composite reservoirs with a leaky fault

Abstract Hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs are usually divided into multiple compartments with distinct properties by linear leaky faults. This kind of heterogeneous reservoir is usually called linear composite reservoir. Hydraulic fracturing is an important technology to significantly improve oil/gas production, and has been widely applied to the development of various oil/gas reservoirs. However, the literature on analytical/semi-analytical models for multi-wing fractured vertical (MWFV) wells in linear composite reservoirs is rare. In this work, we first derive the Laplace-space point source solution for linear composite reservoirs separated by a partially communicating fault, and then propose a semi-analytical model of MWFV wells in linear composite reservoirs based on superposition principle and fracture discrete scheme. The proposed model is validated by comparing with the published simplified models and the commercial numerical simulator. Type curves of MWFV wells in linear composite reservoirs are obtained and the flow regimes are identified. The effect of key parameters on transient pressure responses is discussed in detail. The proposed model can be employed to efficiently deal with multiple fracture wings emanated from the wellbore in linear composite reservoirs. This paper will be helpful to further develop analytical/semi-analytical models for other complex well types in linear composite reservoirs with a fault.