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Software
FracMan Software Suite
 The
FracMan software suite provides an integrated set of tools
for discrete feature network (DFN) analysis of fractured and
non-fractured heterogeneous rock masses. FracMan includes
tools for discrete feature data analysis, geologic modeling,
spatial analysis, visualization, flow and transport, and geomechanics.
Golder Associates distributes FracMan software through training workshops
and software licensing. Contact us via email for current
licensing terms, pricing, and availability.
For detailed information about each module, follow the links provided. Or,
stay in this page for software summaries. Click for graphical,
flowchart, and tabular
views of the FracMan software suite.
The primary modules of FracMan are:
- FracSys (Data Analysis)
- FracWorks XP (3D DFN Structural Modeling
and Visualization)
- MAFIC (Finite Element Flow and Transport
Modeling)
- PAWorks (Pathways Analysis)
- FraCluster (Compartmentalization and
Cluster Analysis)
- FracView (Visualization and Software
Linking)
FracMan modules for reservoir engineering
include:
FracMan modules for rock mechanics include:
- RockBlock (Rock Slope and Tunnel Stability)
- Block2D (Interface for UDEC and DDA Distinct Element Models)
- MASIC (3D Boundary Element Stress Analysis)
- DefRock (Settlement and Subsidence over Fractured Rock Masses)
FracSys
FracSys provides a unique set of tools to
transform geological and well testing data into quantitative parameters necessary
for discrete feature network modeling. The flow of field data through FracSys
to produce a DFN model is illustrated in the linked graphical view.
FracSys allows users to leverage all available geological, geophysical, and
well test data to obtain useful information for engineering design and decision
making. FracSys provides the missing link between structural geologists and
practical engineering.
FracSys modules include:
- HeterFrac for spatial analysis based
on borehole, trace/lineament mapping, flow log, and geophysical data. HeterFrac
analyses include derivation of parameters for all 15 of the FracMan stochastic
fracture models. HeterFrac carries of Levy-flight, box counting, and spectral
fractal analyses, and geostatistical analysis for nested spherical, power
law, and exponential variograms.
- ISIS for fracture set definition and orientation
distribution fitting. ISIS uses a proven probabilistic neural network algorithm
which works efficiently even for overlapping and poorly defined sets.
- FracSize to derive fracture size distributions
by forward modeling of trace and lineament mapping in outcrops, tunnels, and
boreholes
- FracDim for fractional dimension type
curve analysis of flow and connectivity parameters from well tests and interference
tests
- Flare and OxFilet
to derive the conductive fracture intensity and transmissivity distribution
by forward modeling of well tests
FracWorks XP
FracWorks XP generates three dimensional
realizations of discrete feature geology using the parameters derived with FracSys.
Fifteen different spatial models are supported. FracWorks XP fractures models have
been applied to reservoirs in sandstone, limestone/dolomite, siltstone, marl,
and crystalline rocks. FracWorks XP also includes the ability to validate models
through simulated exploration.
FracWorks XP features include:
- Generation of 3D discrete feature network (DFN) models incorporating deterministic,
conditioned, and stochastic fractures
- Simulated exploration to provide a comparison between field measurements
and the measurements implied in the 3D numerical model
- Statistical analysis of generated fractures
- Links for visualization using VRML, GeomView, and AVS
- Simplified analysis of rock blocks and pathways
MAFIC
MAFIC (Matrix and Fracture Interaction Code)
uses the finite element method to solve for flow and transport through FracWorks XP
geological models. MAFIC idealizes fractures using triangular finite elements,
and provides a dual porosity interaction using either quadrahedral finite elements
or a 1-D approximation based on the Warren and Root pseudo-steady state approximation.
MAFIC uses a pre-conditioned conjugate gradient solver, and has been applied
for networks of up to 100,000 fractures.
MAFIC modules include:
- MeshMaster: Tessellation to convert
FracWorks XP fracture networks to well conditioned triangular finite elements
- EdMesh: Mesh refinement and modifications
to boundary conditions
- MAFIC 1.x: 3D dual porosity, Single phase
flow for slightly compressible fluids, with solute or heat transport by particle
tracking. Solute transport processes modeled include advection, longitudinal
and transverse dispersion, matrix diffusion, sorption, and matrix diffusion.
- MAFIC 2.x: 3D single phase real gas or variable density fluid flow in networks
of triangular finite elements
- MASIC: 3D stress analysis for FracWorks XP fracture networks using the boundary
element method
PAWorks and FraCluster
PAWorks and FraCluster
are powerful tools to support analysis of the flow behavior of discrete feature
networks, without requiring the solution of flow equations. PAWorks determines
flow pathways within a FracWorks XP model using graph theory methods, to identify
the most important pathways and their properties. FraCluster defines the geometry
and properties of fracture network clusters and the rock blocks defined by fractures
and fracture networks.
PAWorks / FraCluster analyses include:
- Pathways analysis: to determine the key pathways, or effective pathways
based on depth or breadth based searches, with priority weighting based on
flux, transmissivity, or travel time
- Approximate flow solution: based on a conversion of the fracture network
to a topologically equivalent pipe network, solving flow by the finite element
method
- Solute transport: by the Laplace transform Galerkin method, including advection,
dispersion, retardation, decay/speciation, and diffusion to multiple immobile
zones.
- Compartment analysis: to determine the geometry and properties of hydraulically
isolated flow systems due to fracture connectivity issues
- Tributary drainage analysis: to determine the volume of rock drained by
a fracture network connected to specific wells or tunnels
- Rock block analysis: to determine the size and shape of rock blocks defined
by fractures and fracture networks, in support of conventional dual porosity
flow approaches and rock mechanics
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