Modified method for fracability evaluation of tight sandstones based on interval transit time

Abstract Fracability is a property that indicates how easy reservoir rocks can be fractured in hydraulic fracturing operations. It is a key parameter for fracturing design and evaluation. In order to utilize continuous logging data to predict fracability, synchronous tests of dynamic and static mechanical parameters of rocks under different confining pressures were conducted on 13 tight sandstone samples derived from the central Junggar Basin, China. A modified formula between dynamic and static mechanical parameters was established. Fracability of the tight reservoir in the Junggar Basin was then evaluated based on brittleness index, fracture toughness, and fracability index. The effectiveness of fracturing was analyzed combined with the oil testing curve after hydraulic fracturing. The results show that: (1) The distribution of oil-bearing formations in the studied area coincides well with stratum of higher fracability index. (2) The critical fracability index is determined to be 0.3, three formations are selected as fracturing candidates, and a thin mudstone interbed is identified in the oil-bearing formation. (3) Well testing curve verifies the reliability of the fracability evaluation method and the accuracy of the modified formula between dynamic and static mechanical parameters. This study provides useful information for improving fracturing operations of tight oil and gas reservoirs.