Multiple fracture network seepage model for fractured media

Abstract

The multiple fracture network seepage model for fractured media is put forward. Faults, fractures and matrices are divided into 3 different groups according to their dimensions: (1) the trunk network composed of faults and fractures, which dominates the seepage field, (2) the branch network composed of comparatively smaller fractures, and (3) the equivalent network composed of the smallest fractures and rock matrices, which provides space to store fluid. The branch network connects the other two network systems. A joint element is presented to represent the trunk and branch networks and used to derive the continuity equation for these two network systems. An example is given to show the difference between the classic model and the new model