Challenge

In June, an East Texas operator approached Razorback Direct to support a high-stakes completions project using high-TDS produced water (~250 TDS) instead of fresh water. The operator needed a reliable partner to find cost-effective, high-performance friction reducers (FR) that could handle produced water’s unique challenges without pushing the project over budget. Razorback’s local knowledge and proven expertise made us the clear choice.

Razorback Direct's Approach

Drawing on in-depth area knowledge, Razorback responded immediately, sourcing a range of FR options suitable for high-TDS environments. Within days, our in-house lab began evaluating 13 high-TDS FRs, eventually selecting 9 for field trials that would provide transparent, performance-vs-price comparisons for the operator. Throughout testing, Razorback kept the operator informed with real-time data and honest feedback on each product's performance.

Execution & Results

Razorback seamlessly integrated into the operator’s operations, deploying the produced water fluids package with zero non-productive time (NPT) and no health, safety, or environmental incidents. Key accomplishments included:

• Cost Neutral Trials: All trials conducted without added cost to the operator, maximizing project savings.

• Alignment with AFE Targets:

• First 3 Months: Chemicals at or below AFE projections.

• Within 10 Months: Achieved 10%-20% below chemical AFE.

Comparative Treating Performance: Delivered consistent treating performance regardless of water composition, validating FR effectiveness across variable conditions.

Track Record and Impact

Within the first 10 months, Razorback’s hands-on approach yielded significant benefits:

• ~800,000 Gallons Pumped: Executed 169 bulk deliveries with no NPT due to chemical issues.

• Zero HSE Incidents: Completed the project with a flawless safety record, including zero spills.

• Continual Innovation: Evaluated 18 HVFRs (13 for produced water, 5 for fresh water) and deployed 9 onsite, with 4 built from scratch to tackle unique technical challenges.

Value Provided

Razorback Direct’s proactive, data-driven approach helped the operator achieve sustained performance and budget alignment:

• Cost Control: Continuous trials and careful selection of high-TDS FRs kept the project within budget, achieving substantial chemical cost savings over time.
• Operational Stability: With consistent onsite support and real-time adjustments, Razorback ensured smooth completions operations with reliable results.

Razorback Direct’s work in East Texas demonstrates our commitment to helping operators innovate with produced water while meeting stringent cost and performance goals. Through expertise, transparency, and rigorous testing, we empower operators to optimize their completions programs with confidence.