Retrievable frac packer

Abstract

A retrievable frac packer is provided which allows frac operations to be conducted with a single, retrievable tool, with the capability of providing positive zone production indications during production testing.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to frac packers which can be used in downhole environments, retrieved, and reconditioned for further use rather than requiring the time and expense to drill out, and thus destroy, the tool after use. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] To “frac” a well involves the introduction of media, typically containing a proppant, into a zone surrounding the wellbore to create flow conduits in the surrounding earth. In the interest of cost reduction, it is desirable to carry out such an operation as quickly as possible, and with as few trips up and down the wellbore as possible. For frac operations, it is necessary to introduce a seal in the wellbore to prevent the frac fluid from travelling further downhole than the desired frac zone. [0003] However, wells often have multiple production zones as well as multiple zones where performing the frac operation is desirable. Therefore, the seal which is introduced into the wellbore must be, or is cer...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0019] In the preferred embodiment, the downhole end of the annular body of the tool is provided with a grip capable of latching onto the uphole end of another of such tools. Thus, when frac operations are completed in a wellbore with multip...

Problems solved by technology

However, these tools require expensive surface support equipment in order to be drilled out after the frac operation is completed.

Drilling out such tools is time consuming, and therefore expensive, and can result in undesirable damage to the insid...

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