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Enhancing Flow Distribution in Utah FORGE EGS Through Analytical Optimization of Fracture Zones and Well Orientation
Saugat DOTEL, Robert PODGORNEY
[Idaho State University, USA]
Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) requires uniform fluid flow distribution through its engineered fracture zones for efficient heat extraction and balanced reservoir utilization. Data from the extended circulation test of August 2024 at Utah FORGE, revealed a highly localized flow with over 60% of the injected fluid recovered from the first three fracture zones. Such concentrated flow causes localized thermal stress and pressure spikes, which could result in degradation of fracture conductivity and performance over time. This study employs an analytical model, based on circuit analogies, to assess the effect on flow profile by modifying well orientation and fracture configuration. The base model is calibrated to match flow distribution, zone spacing, and well geometry of 16A(78)-32. Several scenarios for well spacing, with ten and fourteen fracture zones, in parallel and non-parallel (one angled and two angled) well orientations were simulated to identify strategies for improving flow uniformity at Utah FORGE. Fracture flow variation was observed to improve by over 20% with strategic addition of engineered fracture zones. Similarly, the change in well orientation led to increase in flow uniformity by 35%.
Topic: Enhanced Geothermal Systems