Hydraulic fracturing technology is pivotal in the exploration and development of oil and gas fields. Among various methods, electromagnetic monitoring stands out for its nondestructive nature and high accuracy, proving to be an effective tool for evaluating hydraulic fracturing. This paper aims to advance the field by enhancing traditional fracture monitoring devices and creating an experimental teaching platform for online monitoring of hydraulic fractures using electromagnetic methods.

The proposed teaching platform integrates both numerical simulations and laboratory experiments. Initially, COMSOL software was used to conduct numerical simulations on the electromagnetic crack monitoring process, and then the laboratory experiment scheme was optimized based on the numerical simulation results. Subsequently, the teacher guided the students to conduct the laboratory fracture model monitoring experiment, and compared their results with those from the numerical simulations. This dual approach, combining virtual simulation experiments with hands-on laboratory work, allows for a deep dive into electromagnetic fracture monitoring technology. It opens avenues to explore the relationship between electromagnetic monitoring signals and fracture parameters more thoroughly. In the simulation phase, COMSOL was used to model the three-dimensional formation, wellbore, fracture, and electromagnetic detection tool. The mathematical model and boundary conditions of finite-element simulations were established based on Maxwell’s equations, and each model is meshed according to its interconnectivity. After establishing the simulation model, experiments were carried out to monitor the electromagnetic response signals of different fracture models. Numerical simulation exercises not only address students’ uncertainties and complexities in the subject matter but also enhance their understanding and feedback on the experiment. The laboratory experiments, designed to mirror field fracturing processes, feature a visual fracture simulation system and a three-dimensional electromagnetic induction probe. Through this setup, students directly observe the fracture filling and monitoring process, collecting electromagnetic response signals with the probe. Laboratory experiments can exercise students’ practical skills. Comparing these experimental results with numerical simulation results improves the comprehensive research ability of students.

The comparative analysis of electromagnetic fracture monitoring results from both numeral simulations and laboratory experiments reveals 1) a positive correlation between the signal amplitude fluctuations and the total volume of fracture; 2) the ability to infer the fracture location based on the signal fluctuation range; and 3) the similarity between numerical simulation results and experimental data, affirming the accuracy of the experiment.

The teaching platform for electromagnetic monitoring of hydraulic fractures combines virtual simulation experiments with indoor electromagnetic signal monitoring to deepen the understanding of electromagnetic fracture monitoring technology. Through a series of educational modules, including COMSOL virtual fracture simulations, monitoring of fracture filling processes, laboratory fracture monitoring, and comparative analysis of monitoring signals, students explore the relationship between fracture parameters and electromagnetic monitoring signals. This comprehensive approach not only lays a theoretical foundation for the effective inversion of fracture parameters but also enhances student’s grasp of relevant theoretical concepts, fostering their research and engineering practice skills. By engaging with this cutting-edge academic and applied experimental project, students are encouraged to develop their independent innovation and practical inquiry abilities. The platform promotes the advancement of hydraulic fracture monitoring technology. In addition, the teaching platform has been upgraded by adopting constructive and innovative ideas, positioning itself at the forefront of innovative research in the field.