Brown Fused Alumina as a Frac Sand Alternative

High-strength proppant option for hydraulic fracturing under extreme pressure and temperature.

Brown fused alumina used as frac sand substitute

Why Use BFA as Proppant in Fracturing?

Brown fused alumina (BFA) is a viable ceramic alternative to conventional frac sand, especially in deep well operations. Its superior crush resistance, thermal stability, and sphericity make it an excellent candidate to maintain permeability and conductivity under closure stresses beyond 10,000 psi.

  • Crush resistance > 12,000 psi (per API RP 56/60)
  • Low dust, low fines generation, minimal embedment
  • Inert alumina structure ensures corrosion resistance
Compare with Standard Proppants

Applications in Unconventional Wells

  • High-pressure hydraulic fracturing in shale formations
  • Deep horizontal wells and HPHT wells
  • Gas, oil, and geothermal reservoir stimulation

BFA performs where conventional frac sand or resin-coated sand may fail due to particle breakdown or embedment into formation rock.

Recommended Size Grades

  • Ceramic proppant alternatives: 20/40 mesh, 30/50 mesh
  • Fine conductivity applications: 40/70 mesh, 70/140 mesh
  • Custom screening: Available per well design requirements

We offer lab testing support including crush resistance, conductivity, turbidity, and acid solubility per API specs.

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