Numerical Simulation Analysis on Production Evolution Laws in Shale Reservoirs Considering a Horizontal Well Interwell Interference Effect

This study introduces a sophisticated fluid–solid coupling production model specifically for shale gas reservoirs. It comprehensively considers the heterogeneity of the formations and integrates a range of microflow behaviors observed in shale gas, as well as the effects of stress sensitivity. Subsequently, the research explores the dynamic production evolution patterns of parent and child wells under various forms of interference and at different infill times. Simulation results reveal that artificial fracture interference can decrease parent well production compared to the scenario without a child well. The production of the parent well is found to be directly proportional to the connection number and embedding depth of artificial fractures and inversely proportional to the offset distance. The child well production shows minor variations after artificial fracture interference. The connection of the interwell fracture network has a positive effect on the production of the parent well in the initial stage of interference, and the production of the parent well is directly proportional to the interwell fracture network permeability. The interference magnitude among different forms is ranked as interwell fracture network communication > artificial fracture connection > artificial fracture embedding. Early production in child wells negatively interferes with parent wells, whereas later commencement positively influences them. Therefore, optimizing the infill time of the child well and considering interwell connectivity are crucial to minimize negative interference on parent wells and ensure comprehensive reservoir utilization.