The well is first drilled vertically then angled horizontally to run parallel with the shale formation over a mile underground. Multiple layers of steel casing and concrete are installed and cemented in place during drilling to protect groundwater. Small holes are drilled in the horizontal section before fracturing fluid is pumped at high pressure to fracture the shale and allow oil and gas to flow up the well. The process is repeated along the entire length using plugs to isolate sections until the well is ready to produce energy for decades.

2. The well is first drilled using a drill
pipe. At least eight thick layers of
steel casing and concrete are then
cemented in place to create a solid
barrier and help ensure safe well
construction and drinking water
protection.

3. Underground aquifers lie between
50 and 600 feet below earth’s
surface. The shale rock is found
more than a mile (or the length of
six empire state buildings) below
the these aquifers.

4. At about 500 feet above the shale formation,
the drilling is then angled, ultimately creating
a horizontal line. A tool is then inserted into
the pipe to create small holes in the pipe in
preparation for fracturing and for eventual
hydrocarbon production.

5. The fracturing fluid, a mud-like
consistency composed of sand, water
and chemicals, is pumped through the
protected well. This process is then
repeated multiple times.

6. The fracturing fluids pumped into the section
under high pressure create cracks to allow oil
and gas to move freely from the rock pores
into the pipe. Plugs are inserted into the
section as the fracturing repeats across the
entire length of the horizontal well. Once
complete, all of the plugs are removed,
allowing the gas to flow out of the well.

7. A wellhead (and other collection
equipment) is installed at the surface
before the well goes into production.
Once complete, this well can create
decades of reliable energy production.