A Computational Fluid Dynamics Model for Temporary Plugging Balls Transport in a Multi-Clusters Horizontal Wellbore

This study details the development and validation of a three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model to predict the transport dynamics of temporary plugging balls within a multi-clusters horizontal wellbore. The balls are modeled as discrete solid particles, with their transport behavior simulated via a particle tracing method. A laboratory experimental setup was constructed to replicate field conditions, with parameters selected based on the Similarity Theory of Reynold's number to ensure simulation accuracy. Model validation was performed by comparing predicted ball allocation proportions with experimental data under varying pump rates and ball densities. The results showed high consistency, with a maximum discrepancy of 22.2%. Key parameters, including pump rate, fluid viscosity and ball density, were systematically analyzed to elucidate their impacts on transport dynamics.