Custom Fracking Ceramic Proppant Solution vs. Conventional Sands: Which One Wins?
When it comes to hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, the choice of proppant - the material used to prop open the fractures in the rock - can be a significant factor in the efficiency and success of the operation. Two common options for proppant are conventional sands and custom fracking ceramic proppant solutions, but which one comes out on top?
Conventional Sands: Affordable but Limited.
Conventional sands, typically of the silica or quartz variety, are a low-cost option that has been used in hydraulic fracturing for many years. They are abundant and easy to obtain, making them an attractive choice for companies looking to keep costs low.
However, sands have limitations when it comes to propping open fractures. They can be crushed under the weight of the rock above, which means that they may not maintain the fracturing channels open as effectively as other materials. This can lead to lower yields over time and eventually necessitate costly re-fracturing operations. In addition, the size range of conventional sands can be limited, which can lead to the formation of fines - small particles that can clog the fracture channels and reduce flow rates.
Custom Fracking Ceramic Proppant Solution: Superior Performance.
Custom fracking ceramic proppant solutions offer a range of benefits that sands lack. These proppants are made up of ultra-hard, sintered ceramic particles specifically engineered to withstand high pressures and temperatures encountered in deep well applications. They have uniform shapes and sizes that provide superior conductivity and enhanced flow rates. Custom ceramic proppants offer up to 50% greater flow capacity than sand, and up to 30% greater conductivity, leading to increased yields for fracking operations.
In addition, ceramic proppants offer durability that sands cannot match. The ultra-hard particles are resistant to crushing, which allows them to remain effective over the life of the well. They are also less prone to generate fines, ensuring consistent and optimal flow rates over time.
The Cost Factor.
One of the main benefits of conventional sands is that they are cost-effective compared to ceramic proppants. However, the improved efficiency and longevity of ceramic proppants can offset some of the costs as it can mean that less material is required overall, and there are fewer costly workovers or re-fracturing operations needed.
Furthermore, there are customized ceramic proppant solutions which are being produced by some companies for specific formations and oil reservoirs. These customizations have yielded a significant increase in production, whilst reducing the time and the amount of proppant needed. This can bring a considerable advantage over conventional sands.
Conclusion.
While conventional sands remain a popular choice for fracking proppant due to their low cost, custom fracking ceramic proppant solutions offer superior performance and durability that can increase efficiency and production yields. They are especially valuable for wells that will see high pressure, high temperature, or that have long lateral sections with multiple fracture stages. While there may be a higher initial cost associated with ceramic proppants, the long-term benefits, such as increased well productivity and reduced workovers, make it a worthwhile investment.
Contact Us.
If you have any questions about fracking proppants or are interested in learning more about custom ceramic proppant solutions, please contact us. Our team of experts can help you choose the right proppant for your specific application.
For more information, please visit sourcing high strength proppant factories, customize hydraulic fracturing proppant factories.