The Hydrafrac process, originally developed by the research department of Stanolind Oil and Gas Company, has now been in use throughout the industry for 10 months. The results during the research period and those in the succeeding months of commercial operation have been of great benefit in increasing the production of oil and gas. The Hydrafrac process generates new and increased effective permeability in the well. This is accomplished by hydraulic fracturing of the particular zone being treated. The fracture formed is held open by graded sand carried into it with the fracturing medium. This sand acts as a propping agent to hold open the fracture thus produced. While the Hydrafrac process is applicable to many types of formations it is, nevertheless, highly important tha the well conditions be properly evaluated before a decision is made to use the process. Such factors as thickness of the zone, state of depletion, permeability and the general condition of the well with regard to isolation of the zone, must be taken into account in the planning of a job. Where applied in a properly planned manner, either as a completion method on new wells or for rejuvenation of existing wells, the Hydrafrac treatments have resulted in a high degree of success. It is believed that this method will give greater ultimate recovery, as well as a higher rate of recovery. A complete resume of the Hydrafrac process treatments is given in the paper with regard to various areas, formations, and production history of the wells thus treated.

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