Recently, encouraging news came from the Yichang exploration block of Zhejiang Oilfield, where the main fracturing operation of a key exploration well was successfully completed. Using the “Fracturing 2.0 + extreme flow restriction” technique, the operation overcame complex geological challenges and, under the principle of controlled fluid volume and proppant placement, set a new record for sand intensity in horizontal wells in the Yichang block, marking a critical breakthrough in regional shale gas exploration and development.

The well is located on the Yichang slope and serves as a core exploration well in the block. Its mission is to identify the gas-bearing characteristics of shallow- to mid-depth shale in the Hualin area and evaluate production potential. The area features complex geological structures with well-developed and highly connected natural fractures, posing severe challenges to fracturing operations, including fluid loss, fracture instability, and casing deformation, resulting in high technical difficulty and operational risk.

During operations, the project team strictly implemented a management regime of “inspection after each stage, tightening every three stages, and maintenance every six stages,” conducting meticulous checks of critical components. As a result, all 18 fracturing stages were completed with zero high-pressure pipeline leakage, establishing a strong safety and quality assurance barrier.

Supported by the “Fracturing 2.0 + extreme flow restriction” process, the team completed sand fracturing across 18 stages, effectively stimulating a 1,440-meter horizontal section. Acid squeezing was carried out simultaneously, with total fracturing fluid injection approaching 40,000 cubic meters, and all operational parameters meeting design requirements. “Fracturing 2.0” represents a refined upgrade of traditional techniques, comparable to performing “precision surgery” on the reservoir, while “extreme flow restriction” forces fracturing fluids to act more evenly, opening a greater number of fractures.

This successful completion not only verified the adaptability and controllability of the related technical system, but also accumulated replicable reservoir stimulation experience. It has effectively activated shale gas resources in the exploration block and provided critical support for advancing shale gas geological understanding, identifying sweet spots, assessing resource potential, and promoting large-scale exploration and development.