Abstract: A method of forming fractures from a highly deviated or horizontal well bore penetrating a subterranean formulation. A well bore is drilled horizontally into a formation and the deviation in the direction of the well bore from the direction of the least principal horizontal stress is determined. Perforations or notches then are produced in casing cemented in the well bore. The notching is effected in such a manner that the direction of the perforation or notch is made perpendicularly to the direction of the least principal horizontal stress in the subterranean formation. A fracturing fluid then is introduced into the well bore at a predetermined rate and pressure to fracture the formation at the fracture initiation points created by the notches whereby fracture reorientation is minimized or eliminated.

Abstract: An improved method of forming a plurality of spaced substantially parallel fractures in a subterranean formation from a deviated well bore penetrating the formation is provided. The method comprises drilling a substantially vertical well bore into the formation and forming an initial fracture therein by applying hydraulic pressure to the formation. The in situ least principal stress direction in the formation is determined from the initial fracture and a deviated well bore is then drilled from the substantially vertical well bore into the formation at an angle and in a direction substantially parallel to the in situ least principal stress direction in the formation. Casing is placed in the deviated well bore, and a plurality of spaced fracture initiation points are created therein by forming a set of perforations of predetermined number and size through the casing and into the formation at the location of each of the fracture initiation points.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing and repairing a subsurface conduit using an inflatable packer, wherein the packer includes a fluid filled pressure responsive means, and a fluid pressure conductor means for transmitting fluid pressure to a pressure indicating means located on one end of the packer. The packer is positioned in the conduit such that the fluid filled pressure responsive means is adjacent that portion of the conduit to be tested. The packer is then inflated to isolate the conduit portion to be tested. Air pressure may then be introduced through means in the packer to the isolated conduit portion, and the pressure observed on the pressure indicating means by a television camera located in the subsurface conduit. The packer also includes means for injecting chemical grouting material into a leak in the isolated portion of the conduit.