Modeling of the Stability of Multibranch Horizontal Open Holes

Abstract This investigation was focused on studying the complex problem of stability of multi-branch horizontal openholes in a complete three-dimensional anisotropic in-situ stress field simulating drilling, completion, and production conditions. Previous work on this subject consisted of parametric analyses placing the junction in the overburden. Whenever reservoir management requires the construction of a specific multilateral scenario such as a multibranch horizontal inside a producing formation, a complex analysis is required. In this work, stress- displacement analysis in steady-state was coupled with transient phenomena to compute stress behaviors and changes in pore pressure due to disturbances created during simulated drilling and production conditions. This coupled analysis allowed for the inclusion of time dependent non-linear processes that influence behavior of the system compounded by rock, fluids contained in the rock, and in-situ stress field.