Article

Ovintiv is leading the implementation of simulfracing in the Permian basin, allowing simultaneous pumping into multiple wells. This method, currently used by 30% of U.S. frac crews, aims to lower the wellbore friction and reduce costs by increasing water and proppant throughput without a proportional increase in energy.

By decreasing the flowrate per well, simulfracing can significantly reduce surface pumping pressure. For example, a 33% reduction in the flowrate per well can lead to a 50% reduction in wellbore friction, decreasing surface pressure from approximately 12,300 psi to about 9,700 psi.

The technology is also seen as beneficial in high-pressure environments like the Marcellus and Haynesville shales, potentially lowering surface pressure below 10,000 psi, thus reducing operational costs. Despite the need for more infrastructure, simulfracing represents a significant efficiency improvement in the frac industry.