NexTier Oilfield Solutions Inc. has completed its first project for a major operator in the mid-continent region with its recently launched IntelliStim fracturing optimization system. With the proprietary system, which combines the complete line of NexTier’s NexHub digital technologies into one comprehensive package, customers can monitor every aspect of the completion operation in real time. This includes detailed downhole visualizations that provide verification of the fracturing treatment’s performance.

The system expands NexTier’s strategy of improving wellsite performance while decreasing the ultimate cost per barrel to oilfield operators through integrated wellsite operations. Personnel already onsite can quickly deploy the instrumentation designed to merge seamlessly with the high-efficiency fracturing operations running today.

The NexHub Digital Center hosts all surface and downhole data. This includes all data from pre-job treatment design, offset well monitoring, stage-by-stage performance assessments and detailed visualizations of downhole fracture propagation during pumping. The data is displayed with the Corva visualization platform. Decision makers at the well-site and at remote locations have precise control and can make vital adjustments for optimal completion performance.

Silixa’s Carina sensing system provides real-time assessment of frac-design performance. Its Constellation fiber-equipped sensing wireline cable allows for cost-effective monitoring of fracture growth, azimuthal development and cluster efficiency while pumping. This Silixa intervention solution can be deployed and retrieved in multiple offset wells via a NexTier wireline truck. It achieves the industry’s most accurate measurements and highest signal-to-noise ratio.

"Partnering with Silixa brings our leading completions expertise together with the global leader in fiber-optic sensing," said Robert Drummond, president and CEO of NexTier. "In real time, as the operation progresses, the IntelliStim system provides an unprecedented level of quality control and efficiency over every component of your completion program."

The integration of Silixa’s fiber-acquired data into the NexHub Digital Center gives operators an exponential increase in the value provided by their data, said Pete Richter, vice president, North America at Silixa.

"From a technological perspective, it's the best possible array of surface equipment, downhole measurements, real-time monitoring and comprehensive data collection – right at your fingertips," commented Otman Algadi, director of commercial engineering at NexTier. "It's the next step in our ultimate goal of deploying artificial intelligence across the wellsite, and we're proud to make it a reality."