Advances benefit tight gas sands development

Advances in four key technologies have been important for more efficient development of tight gas sands. The advances include expanded use of 3D seismic, integrated approaches to natural fracture detection, improved well completions and advanced stimulation technology, and selected use of horizontal wells. Additionally advances in drill bits, downhole motors, and basic procedures have significantly reduced the costs of producing tight gas, as demonstrated by an impressive increase in rate of penetration and associated reduction in costs for new wells.