The first step in the completion or hydraulic fracturing process involves perforating the well casing in the horizontal portion of the well. By setting a small charge, which perforates the casing and cement, we create the necessary opening in the casing to allow the hydraulic fracturing portion of the completions process to begin. The fracturing fluid – made up of more than 99.5 percent water and sand – is then injected under controlled high pressure to break open the formation, and expand and hold open the fractures, allowing the natural gas to flow to the well head.
It can take several days to complete the stimulation process, and requires continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of workers and the protection of the environment.
According to government regulators, the hydraulic fracturing process is safe and tightly-regulated. Here are a few statements from environmental officials commenting on the process:
- Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson: “I think that fracking as a technology is perfectly capable of being clean. I do. But it requires people who are doing it and innovators who use the technology to take some time to make sure that it’s done right. And it requires smart regulation, smart rules of the road.” (Asbury Park News, 2/22/12)
- Pa. Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Krancer: “Pennsylvania regulates oil and gas well operations under several statutes including the Oil and Gas Act of 2012, the Clean Streams Law, the Air Pollution Control Act, the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act and the Solid Waste Management Act. As described in more detail to follow, this network of laws and their associated regulations provides the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) with the tools it needs to comprehensively regulate everything associated with oil and gas development – from locating the well site, site preparation, drilling the well, fresh water withdrawals and water storage, wastewater management, and site restoration.” (Congressional testimony, 5/31/12)
