The Visualizing Simulation System of Proppant Transportation (VSSPT) is designed to evaluate the proppant transport capabilities of various fracturing fluids. This is done by pumping a slurry of frac gel and proppant through a shear loop to condition the fluid and simulate downhole conditions. The slurry is then pumped through a series of pipes to measure the shear stress exhibited by the slurry at different shear rates. Using this shear stress vs. shear rate data the rheological properties of the slurry can be determined (n’, k’, apparent viscosity). Following the pipe rheometer the slurry is flowed through a slot rheometer where the proppant transport can be visualized. By comparing the rheological properties of the slurry with the actual proppant transport observed the user can have a better understanding of the proppant transport of fluids on location when it is impossible to visualize the actual proppant transport. Studies can be conducted to determine the optimum fluid properties that will maximize proppant transport but minimize formation damage. In addition, the settling properties of the proppant in various types of frac gel can also be investigated.
General Specifications
Max working pressure through the slot: 30psi (0.20MPa)
Max working pressure bypassing the slot: 35 psi (0.24MPa)
Max working temperature through the slot: 150F (65.6C)
Max working temperature bypassing the slot: 250F (121.1C)
Max flow rate: 2.5 GPM (9.5 L/MIN)
Proppant Concentration Range: batch mixed between 0.5 to 10 lbs/gal (60 to 1200 kg/m3)
Overall Room Size: 15 meters wide by 7 meters deep by 3 meters ceiling height (Minimum. A longer room may be needed depending on the final layout)
Electrical: 380 VAC 50 Hz 3 Phase 60 Amps (5 outlets minimum), 220-240 VAC 50 Hz 1 phase 20 Amps (5 outlets minimum)
Main Components
Mainly consisting of the following subsystems:
Fracturing Fluid Mixing and Pumping
Heating and Shearing
Pipe Rheometer
Slot Rheometer
Fluids Disposal
Data Acquisition
General Specifications
Max working pressure through the slot: 30psi (0.20MPa)
Max working pressure bypassing the slot: 35 psi (0.24MPa)
Max working temperature through the slot: 150F (65.6C)
Max working temperature bypassing the slot: 250F (121.1C)
Max flow rate: 2.5 GPM (9.5 L/MIN)
Proppant Concentration Range: batch mixed between 0.5 to 10 lbs/gal (60 to 1200 kg/m3)
Overall Room Size: 15 meters wide by 7 meters deep by 3 meters ceiling height (Minimum. A longer room may be needed depending on the final layout)
Electrical: 380 VAC 50 Hz 3 Phase 60 Amps (5 outlets minimum), 220-240 VAC 50 Hz 1 phase 20 Amps (5 outlets minimum)
Main Components
Mainly consisting of the following subsystems:
Fracturing Fluid Mixing and Pumping
Heating and Shearing
Pipe Rheometer
Slot Rheometer
Fluids Disposal
Data Acquisition
