FracWorks XP for MODFLOW

FracWorks XP for MODFLOW brings discrete fracture network (DFN) modeling capabilities to MODFLOW hydrogeologic modelers. FracWorks XP for MODFLOW consists of two modules:

  • FracWorks XP for generation of realistic 3-D fracture network (DFN) models
  • StrataFrac XP to transform DFN models to properties on MODFLOW grids

    • FracWorks XP generates 3-D fracture network models to provide a more realistic description of the pattern of faults, fractures, solution features, and stratigraphic contacts in fractured rock. FracWorks XP provides a range of approaches for generation of fracture patterns to suit every geology, including stochastic models, fault and fold geological models, geocellular models, and stress tensor models. Fracture patterns can include planar and non-planar faults, and can be conditioned to field observations. FracWorks XP has been applied successfully in carbonate, fractured till, crystalline, and clastic geologies.

    Key Features

  • Import of geologic framework surfaces and faults using goCad and DXF formats
  • Generation of fracture network models based on site-specific data and conceptual geologic models
  • Conditioning to lineament maps and 2-D seismic structures
  • Import of structures identified through 3-D seismic studies and structural reconstructions
  • Model validation through simulated well data collection and lineament mapping
  • Evaluation of fracture network connectivity using graph theory tools
  • Model export for FracMan/MAFIC flow simulation, FracMan/PAWorks solute transport analysis, and FracMan/RockBlock kinematic analysis
  • Model export to StrataFrac XP for use with MODFLOW and other grid-cell based flow and transport models.
  • Easy-to-use graphical user interface

    • Workflow

    1. Collect and analyze site structural and hydrogeologic data
    2. Develop a conceptual 3-D hydrostructural model
    3. Import surfaces, lineaments, known faults, boreholes, and model boundaries to FracWorks XP
    4. Import 3-D geocellular data for fracture model conditioning, if available
    5. Generate the 3-D discrete fracture network model in FracWorks XP based on the conceptual hydrostructural model
    6. Verify DFN model in FracWorks XP by evaluation of simulated boreholes and lineaments
    7. Evaluate network connectivity using FracWorks XP graph-theory tools
    8. Export fracture network model for further analysis in MODFLOW (via StrataFrac XP), FracMan/MAFIC, FracMan/PAWorks, and FracMan/RockBlock

     

    Hardware Requirements and Software Compatibility

    You can run FracWorks XP for MODFLOW on any PC compatible computer which operates Microsoft Windows® (95, 98, 2000, NT, or XP). A Minimum of 512 MB of RAM is recommended. Your computer must be equipped with an OpenGL compatible graphics card.