What is Frac Sand?

To improve production from oil and gas wells, sometimes pressure is used to fracture the rock formations to allow better flow of the hydrocarbons to the wellbore. When the pressure is removed, however, the fracture that was created closes back up which dramatically diminishes the effectiveness of the fracture.

Frac sand is sand that is pumped into the well during the fracturing operation. Since the sand is carried along with the fluid into the fracture, it will remain in the fracture when the pressure is removed, keeping the fracture propped open and allowing a good means by which the hydrocarbons can flow to the wellbore.

The fractures that are produced are usually vertical, which presents a problem. The sand is heavy and would tend to settle to the bottom of the fracture, keeping the bottom open, but allowing the top to close back up.

The frac fluids are designed to flow well and carry the sand during pumping, but then change to more of a gel when pumping stops, holding the sand in place until the fracture closes, trapping the sand between the rock layers. After that, the frac fluid decomposes and will flow again so that it does not obstruct the flow of hydrocarbons, but the sand has been trapped by the rock and keeps the fracture propped open.

Rowdy Farms, LLC is one of the premier transport providers of Frac Sand in North Texas supporting the growing business of gas and oil production throughout the Barnett Shell. Contact Rowdy Farms for additional information or any questions you may have about Frac Sand transportation.