Method of forming a plurality of spaced substantially parallel fractures from a deviated well bore

Abstract From the Canadian patent

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 …