SapphireLab® Flowback

SKU: 2100000259804

The SapphireLab Flowback Model by Interface Fluidics is a purpose-built microfluidic system for evaluating hydraulic fracturing fluid performance under realistic subsurface conditions. It provides a fast, standardized, and highly sensitive platform to screen individual chemistries or complete frac fluid packages. By replicating flow through controlled porous media, the Flowback Model delivers direct visualization and reproducible data on fluid interactions, compatibility, and performance. This enables operators and researchers to predict, prevent, and remediate flow assurance issues—such as scale formation, emulsions, or formation damage—while accelerating product development cycles. With results available in under a day, it allows rapid iteration, reducing startup risks and optimizing production outcomes with confidence.

Capabilities & Differentiators

Frac Fluid Screening at the Micro- and nanoscale: Faster, more sensitive, and lower volume requirements than Amott cell or coreflood experiments. Direct Visualization: Pore-level imaging reveals fluid interactions, incompatibilities, and potential production risks. Quantitative, Reproducible Data: Standardized porous media and test protocols ensure reliable cross-comparisons across fluids and chemistries. High Precision & Reliability: Advanced pumps, sensors, and microfluidic designs deliver accuracy and repeatability in every test. Efficiency & Speed: Results delivered in less than 24 hours, enabling rapid screening, optimization, and decision-making.

Primary Use Cases

Hydraulic Fracturing Optimization: Screen individual chemical additives or full fluid packages against reservoir water and oil to maximize production efficiency. Accelerated Product Development: Support rapid iteration and innovation in surfactant, flowback additive, and chemical system design. Cost-Effective Chemistry Management: Optimize concentrations and validate fluid compatibility to reduce overspending on additives. Formation Damage Prevention: Evaluate and refine fluid formulations to minimize damage, improve cleanup, and enhance well performance.

Specifications

Maximum Pressure

150 bar / 2,175 psi

Maximum Temperature

200 °C / 390 °F

Live Oil Support

Extended Dynamic Range

Yes

Dimensions

91W × 81D × 165H cm / 36W × 32D × 65H in

Weight

386 kg / 850 lbs

Chip Holder Type

Screw Top

System Cooling

Pumps

3 × High-precision syringe pumps, 517 bar (7,500 psi) 1 × High-precision syringe pump, 890 bar (12,900 psi)

Pressure Sensors

Sample Cylinders

N/A

Density/Viscosity Sensor

Microscope

Upright epifluorescence microscope

Light Source

Cooled LED light source with adjustable output

Camera

CMOS 7 MP sensor, 300–1100 nm, 16-bit, mono

Computer

Included, RAM ECC 32GB, RAID1 1TB, core i9 min

Heating Control

1 Zones