Modeling Geomechanical Processes in Oil and Gas Reservoirs at the True Triaxial Loading Apparatus

Abstract

The paper presents the results of the investigation of the strain-strength properties of rocks (dolomites) raised from a depth of more than 6 km of the exploration well of the Kainsayskaya Field. The experiments were carried out on a unique experimental setup – the Triaxial Independent Load Test System of IPMech RAS on cubic specimens with an edge of 40 mm. Two triaxial tests were performed on two specimens showing the presence of strong strength anisotropy of the rock. A physical simulation of the pressure reduction process in deep wells near an open borehole and the tip of a perforation hole was performed on three specimens. The conducted studies have revealed a rather low strength of the studied rocks, despite the great depths of their lying under the conditions of high rock pressure. They have shown that the beginning of the rock destruction depends vastly on the type of stress state arising in the formation. Carrying out physical modeling of geomechanical processes in oil and gas reservoirs using true triaxial loading is of great importance from the point of view of justifying methods of influence on deep-lying strata in order to increase the productivity of wells, as well as reduce risks of well destruction during their drilling and operation.