Prospective directions for hydraulic fracturing development at Zarubezhneft JSC assets

UDK: 622.276.66

DOI: 10.24887/0028-2448-2025-9-36-40

Key words: multistage hydraulic fracturing (MSHF), offshore fields, low-permeability reservoirs, geomechanical modeling, well completion systems, multilateral wells, hydraulic fracturing design optimization

Authors: A.F. Karimov (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); A.A. Lubnin (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); A.V. Savin (Zarubezhneft JSC, RF, Moscow); I.A. Belov (ZARUBEZHNEFT-Dobycha Kharyaga LLC, RF, Moscow); A.S. Klevtsov (Vietsovpetro JV, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vung Tau); T.E. Bazhikov (Research and Engineering Institute, Vietsovpetro JV, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vung Tau)

The article under consideration provides a comprehensive analysis and covers current achievements of multistage hydraulic fracturing (MSHF) technology development at Zarubezhneft’s JSC assets, including the Kharjaga field in the Russian Federation and offshore projects in Socialist Republic of Vietnam being developed under the Vietsovpetro joint venture. It examines advanced engineering solutions for improving the efficiency of low-permeability reservoir development, with a focus on geomechanical modeling and ball-activated frac-port completion systems. The study highlights the adaptation of these technologies to challenging geological conditions, such as high vertical and lateral heterogeneity of formations and water breakthrough risks. Key pilot projects are discussed in detail, including the first successful MSHF operation in a directional well offshore Vietnam and the implementation of MSHF in a multilateral well at the Artinskian reservoir in the Kharjaga field. The conducted analysis covers technological and infrastructural constraints of offshore operations, such as limited pumping capacity and seasonal weather impacts. The article outlines prospective development directions, such as transitioning to horizontal and semi-horizontal wells with MSHF, deploying high-capacity pumping equipment, and utilizing specialized vessels to scale up operations. The following innovations are aimed to enhance the economic viability of developing complex reservoirs while maintaining operational safety and efficiency.

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