The effects of wellbore flow resistance and permeability on equi-pressure contour distribution is unclear in reservoir
development,so the modified electrolytic simulation experiment was carried out. Nearwellbore 3-D potential distribution of
multi-lateral wells was measured;the effects of wellbore flow resistance and permeability on equipressure contour distribution
were studied with a film resistors well model and different concentration of the electrolyte respectively. The results show that
the equipotential surface was cambered outward convex,that the surface shape in the nearwellbore space was similar to well
architecture;that equipressure contours were egg-shaped rather than oval when considering the resistance of the wellbore,and
that the control area decreased. Since nearwellbore pressure drop existsed,the equipressure contours passed through the wellbore
location. The drainage area extended and each branch contributed more effectively in low permeability reservoirs. The
results will have a great significance in determining the drainage area of multi-lateral wells.