Optimal design of hydraulic fracturing in coalbed methane wells

Coalbed methane, a new kind of abundant energy resource underground, can be efficiently extracted from coal seam wells after hydraulic fracturing. In this paper, an important theoretical method of optimal design of hydraulic fracturing in coalbed wells is given which belongs to the science and technique research of national ''85'' focal point projects in China. With three mathematical formulas' being established of fracture's area, proppant distribution and conductivity, the objective function is presented. A method of numerical searching is then used to determine the values of fracturing parameters including injection rate, injection time, fluid and proppant properties. Cases run by computer, which have been applied to optimise the fracturing of coalbed methane wells at trail region in Liuilin county, Shanxi province of China are also discussed.