Fracturing

Why We Fracture?

     Hydraulic Fracturing is a process of breaking down hard-packed formations of a producing oil or gas well. The goal is to make the sand crevices more porous or 'prop them open' so more oil or gas enters the well bore. There are many different ways to frac well bores. You can use different fluid types (slick water, gelled water, chemically treated water, etc) as well as different sand sizes. The process is simpler fo shallow wells because you use a lot less sand and water than you do deeper wells.

Dangers of Fracturing

     Most of the 'dangers' of fracing are highly unlikely due to precautionary measures taken by the oil company. One danger could be a leak in a tanker truck or a tank on location during the fracing procedure. Concerns of the methane gas and toxins entering fresh water is highly unlikely, but possible due to pipe failure. Another danger is the disposing of treating frac water. Regulations by the Railroad Commissions of Texas help protect our fresh water.