Finite element simulation of fluid flow in fractured rock media |
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Authors: | R Kristinof P G Ranjith S K Choi |
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Affiliation: | (1) Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia;(2) CSIRO Petroleum, Clayton, Australia; |
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Abstract: | Fluid dynamics models are used by the petroleum industry to model single- and/or multi-phase flow within fractured rock formations,
in order to facilitate extraction of fluids such as oil and natural gas, and in other areas of engineering to study groundwater
flow, as well as to estimate contaminant seepage and transport. In this paper, the numerical modelling software Comsol is used to simulate air and water flow through a specimen of granite with a single vertical fracture subjected to triaxial
loading conditions. The intent of the model is to simulate triaxial test findings on a rock specimen with a natural fracture.
Fluid flow is simulated at various confining and inlet pressures using the cubic law. Model results were in good agreement
with laboratory findings. Pressure distribution along the fracture and across the specimen are as expected with a near linear
pressure distribution along the length of the fracture. A drawdown effect on pressure distribution across the specimen in
the vicinity of the fracture is also observed. Pressure gradient was largely uniform; however, some localised zones of high
gradient along the fracture are observed. |
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