Proppant Settling Correlations for Non-Newtonian Fluids Under Static and Dynamic Conditions

This study presents a new approach for analysis of proppant settling data in non-Newtonian pseudoplastic fracturing fluids and develops drag coefficient correlations as a function of fluid model parameter n/prime/. Results of experiments with these fluids under static as well as dynamic conditions are discussed. A wide range of n/prime/ and particle Reynolds number is investigated. It is shown that at low-particle Reynolds numbers the fluid model parameter n/prime/ has a significant effect on proppant settling velocity. This effect diminishes at higher particle Reynolds numbers. The dynamic settling velocity data agree reasonably well with the correlations developed from static velocity data. 18 refs.