Performing In-situ Stress Tests With Water in Underpressured, Low Stress Zones

Abstract

Abstract With the increased use of 3-D fracture simulators, the need for accurate and affordable formation stress tests has arose. One of the main factors in keeping the test cost down is conducting the stress test with water. In most formations the stress gradient is high enough (i.e. > 0.433 psi/ft) that water can be used, but there are many formations (Berea, Weir, Devonian Shale) that have stress gradients lower than 0.433 psi/ft. When this situation occurs the hydrostatic pressure of the water can fracture the formation and the well goes on vacuum. This leads to problems establishing constant injection rates and pressures that are usually obtained before monitoring pressure falloff1. In the past, formations with low stress gradients used nitrogen for the test fluid, thus keeping the hydrostatic pressure below frac gradient. This method works but is extremely cost prohibited. This paper explains the problems that can occur when testing low stress gradient formations, and procedures that can be used to gain accurate formation stress profiles using water and a downhole shutoff tool with equalizing ports.