Your Frac Sand 101 Buying Guide

In this blog, we’ll talk all about frac sand 101, break down the different grades, and explore the specs you should keep an eye on. We’ll also look at logistics considerations and run through a few common mistakes to avoid.

What Is Frac Sand, and How Is It Used in Hydraulic Fracturing?

Frac sand is a high-purity quartz sand with very durable and round grains. Because of its shape, it can lodge itself in the fractures created by hydraulic fracturing fluid. This keeps those cracks open, allowing oil or gas to flow up the well more freely.

Why Frac Sand Matters
Frac sand might look simple, but it’s a cornerstone of the hydraulic fracturing process. By helping to hold fractures open, it maximizes flow pathways and boosts overall production. Picture it this way: if your fractures slam shut after you pump the fluid out, you’ve done a lot of work for very little reward. Quality proppant keeps those pathways clear and flowing.
Are There Alternatives Available?
You might have heard of resin-coated sand or ceramic proppants. While these can be useful in specific, high-pressure environments, most operators rely heavily on sand due to cost-effectiveness and proven performance. Understanding your formation’s unique demands is key here.

The Different Types and Grades of Frac Sand Selection

Let’s cover the frac sand 101 of specific types. If you’re new to buying proppant, you might find yourself scratching your head at the range of available mesh sizes. Here’s the lowdown:

Mesh Sizes and Why They Matter
Mesh size refers to the range of particle sizes in your frac sand. For instance, 40/70 mesh sand will have grains that pass through a 40-mesh sieve but not a 70-mesh sieve. Larger mesh sizes (like 30/50) indicate bigger particles, while smaller numbers (like 100 mesh) refer to finer grains. The mesh size you choose should match the reservoir characteristics and your fracturing method. Finer sand can penetrate deeper into narrow fractures, while coarser sand may prop wider channels.
100 Mesh, 40/70 Mesh, and Others
- 100 Mesh: Very fine grains, excellent for accessing ultra-tight formations.
- 40/70 Mesh: A common size for many slickwater fracturing operations, providing a balance of size and strength.
- 30/50 Mesh: Coarser than 40/70, suitable for formations that can handle bigger grains.
Choosing the right size comes down to the reservoir’s closure pressure, desired flow rate, and the specific fracturing technology you’re using.

Key Frac Sand Specifications Buyers Should Consider

Buying frac sand isn’t just about grabbing a sack of quartz. Operators focus on several critical specs to make sure sand will perform once it’s downhole. Let’s run through some of the big ones.

Grain Size Distribution
We’ve already touched on mesh, but it’s worth emphasizing: a precise and consistent distribution of particle sizes ensures smoother pumping, predictable flowback, and a well-supported fracture. If the sizing is off, you could face screen-outs or uneven placement.
Roundness and Sphericity
Frac sand needs to be reasonably round. Sharp or angular particles don’t pack as efficiently, which reduces fracture conductivity. Rounder grains hold up better under stress and create more open space for oil and gas to flow through. Sphericity measures how closely the particles approach a perfect sphere.
Crush Resistance
Once you pump the sand into the formation, it experiences crushing pressures from the closing fractures. A crush resistance test determines if the grains will deform or break. High crush resistance indicates the sand can handle greater stress loads, which is vital for maintaining flow pathways and avoiding fines that can block fractures.
Acid Solubility and Turbidity
Sand is exposed to a variety of downhole fluids, some of which can be acidic. Acid solubility tests measure how the sand reacts. High solubility means it might dissolve or break down, which is obviously undesirable. Turbidity measures how clear or cloudy the fluid becomes when mixed with the proppant. Low turbidity means cleaner sand that won’t clog equipment or reduce conductivity.

Logistics Considerations: Storage, Transportation, and Sourcing

Even if you have the perfect frac sand, it’s not going to do much good if it doesn’t arrive on time or gets contaminated in transit.

Storage
Sand can absorb moisture or become contaminated with dust and debris if not stored properly. Make sure your storage facilities are well-protected from the elements. Some operators use silos or specialized bins, while others rely on covered stockpiles. The method you choose may depend on your climate, budget, and operational scale.
Transportation
Most frac sand is transported by truck, rail, or a combination of both. If you’re operating in a basin far from the sand source, you’ll want to arrange a logistics plan that ensures timely delivery without incurring sky-high freight costs. Think about the infrastructure your supplier has in place. Do they have rail access? Fast loadouts? Real-time tracking? All of these matter when you’re trying to keep a tight schedule.
Sourcing from Reliable Suppliers
Where you get your frac sand matters. A supplier with a modern plant and stringent testing protocols is more likely to deliver a consistent product. Some suppliers test their sand hourly to ensure it’s always in spec. Others might cut corners, risking out-of-spec products that could damage your pumps or diminish flow rates. Don’t be afraid to ask suppliers about their testing frequency, certifications, and capacity for handling large orders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Frac Sand

Buying frac sand sounds straightforward, but there are a few pitfalls that can trip you up. Let’s cover some of the rookie errors people make so you can steer clear of them.

Going for the Cheapest Option
Price matters, but going for the cheapest quote can backfire if the sand doesn’t meet your quality standards. Subpar sand can lead to premature equipment wear, fracturing issues, and higher overall costs down the road.
Ignoring Logistics
You might find an attractive price on paper, only to realize that shipping costs and delays negate any savings. Factor in transportation logistics from the start, and ensure your supplier can handle your order volume without scrambling at the last minute.
Failing to Check Testing Protocols
Not all suppliers test their sand as rigorously as they claim. Ask for documentation on the testing frequency and methods. A supplier that tests hourly or offers detailed specs is likely to catch out-of-spec product before it reaches your wellsite.
Overlooking Grain Size Compatibility
Don’t buy 100 mesh just because it’s popular. Make sure the sand’s mesh size aligns with your reservoir characteristics and fracturing plan. Otherwise, you might see reduced conductivity or premature screen-outs.

Looking for consistent, premium frac sand that checks all the boxes? Reach out to Pontotoc Sand & Stone and discover the difference rigorous testing and dedicated service can make.

Our Frac Sand Products

6 Tips for Choosing the Best Frac Sand for Your Operation

Here are a few easy steps to help you choose the ideal frac sand, no matter what your project requirements look like.

Evaluate Your Reservoir: Understand the closure pressures, temperature conditions, and formation permeability. This data will guide you toward the appropriate sand grade and crush resistance.
Match the Mesh Size: Determine which mesh sizes are most compatible with your fracturing design. Finer sands (like 100 mesh) suit tighter formations, while coarser sands (30/50 or 40/70) might be necessary for broader fractures.
Check Certifications and Test Results: Don’t just take a supplier’s word for it. Ask for test data and ensure they follow industry standards like API RP 19D or ISO certifications.
Review the Logistics: Calculate total landed cost, including shipping or rail logistics. Confirm that your supplier can handle the volumes you need on the timeline you’ve set.
Consider Safety and Environmental Practices: A conscientious supplier will have measures in place to reduce silica dust and responsibly handle wastewater.
Look for Consistency: Even high-quality sand is only valuable if every truckload meets the same specs. Opt for suppliers who use automated systems and frequent testing so you don’t get stuck with out-of-spec proppant.

The Quality Measures of Frac Sand 101: Real-World Implications

It’s one thing to discuss specs in theory. Let’s put it in real-world terms. Operators who choose premium, consistent sand often see fewer well interventions, lower equipment downtime, and better production rates. Conversely, those who gamble on subpar sand sometimes face clogged fractures, damaged pumps, and the headache of workover operations.

In some cases, a single issue with out-of-spec sand can halt fracturing for hours or days, costing a fortune in lost productivity. Over time, those losses stack up, overshadowing whatever was “saved” by opting for cheaper proppant.

The Frac Sand 101 of Challenges Facing the Market

Demand for frac sand has soared in recent years. This growth is good news for suppliers but can present challenges for buyers. Surges in demand might strain logistics networks, leading to longer lead times and higher freight costs. Environmental regulations can impact how and where sand is mined.

Staying informed about these market dynamics can help you anticipate changes in price or availability. Partnering with a supplier who has a stable reserve base and a reliable transportation network can be a big asset. You’ll have more confidence in your supply chain, even when the market sees swings in demand.

Make an Informed Frac Sand Purchase Decision By Partnering With Pontotoc Sand & Stone

When it comes to frac sand, recognizing indicators like crush resistance, roundness, and planning around logistics are all critical for a successful fracturing job. By doing your homework and selecting a supplier with proven reliability, you minimize downtime, protect your equipment, and boost well productivity. Pontotoc Sand & Stone prides itself on delivering tested, high-purity proppant that meets or exceeds industry standards. Get in touch to get started!

Frac Sand 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

What Is Frac Sand, and How Is It Used in Hydraulic Fracturing?

Why Frac Sand Matters

Are There Alternatives Available?

The Different Types and Grades of Frac Sand Selection

Mesh Sizes and Why They Matter

100 Mesh, 40/70 Mesh, and Others

Key Frac Sand Specifications Buyers Should Consider

Grain Size Distribution

Roundness and Sphericity

Crush Resistance

Acid Solubility and Turbidity

Logistics Considerations: Storage, Transportation, and Sourcing

Storage

Transportation

Sourcing from Reliable Suppliers

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Frac Sand

Going for the Cheapest Option

Ignoring Logistics

Failing to Check Testing Protocols

Overlooking Grain Size Compatibility

6 Tips for Choosing the Best Frac Sand for Your Operation

The Quality Measures of Frac Sand 101: Real-World Implications

The Frac Sand 101 of Challenges Facing the Market

Make an Informed Frac Sand Purchase Decision By Partnering With Pontotoc Sand & Stone

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