Topic outline

  • Guide to Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking) Technologies

    Credits: 8 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides an in-depth technical exploration of hydraulic fracturing technologies as applied to the extraction of unconventional oil and gas resources. Designed for licensed engineers and land surveyors, it examines the mechanics, equipment, materials, and regulatory considerations surrounding fracking operations. Special attention is given to fracture design, proppant selection, environmental risk mitigation, and innovations in multistage horizontal well stimulation. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the scientific, engineering, and operational frameworks driving hydraulic fracturing in modern petroleum development.

    Topics:

    Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to: 
    1. Describe the fundamental mechanics of hydraulic fracturing in subsurface rock formations. 
    2. Explain the role of wellbore construction and completion techniques in fracking operations. 
    3. Evaluate the composition, behavior, and environmental implications of fracturing fluids. 
    4. Assess proppant materials, performance characteristics, and deployment methods. 
    5. Interpret fracture modeling outputs and apply design criteria to maximize production. 
    6. Identify and mitigate potential environmental risks associated with hydraulic fracturing. 
    7. Navigate relevant regulatory frameworks and industry safety protocols. 
    8. Analyze the integration of diagnostics, monitoring technologies, and real-time data in operational decision-making. 
    9. Review case studies highlighting successful and failed applications of fracking technologies. 
    10. Examine future developments in unconventional resource stimulation and sustainable fracturing methods.

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.


    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 
    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, petroleum, geological, geotechnical, environmental, and other engineering professional whose job description may require a general overview knowledge of subterranean hydraulic fracturing technologies.
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1