Pump Down Isolation Plug Tool-Free Wellbore Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for closing off a wellbore require labor-intensive deployment and removal of tools, especially when multiple plugs need to be set, as they necessitate running and retrieving deployment tools multiple times.
Innovation Solution
An isolation plug system comprising a support element with flexible wiper elements and a frangible locator, which can be pumped through existing tubulars, engages with a locator grapple to position and expand a selectively deployable plug element against the wellbore wall, allowing for tool-free installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a deployment tool is used to set plugs in the wellbore, then the plug can be positioned and installed, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring repeated tool deployment and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the deployment tool from the plug assembly, allowing the plug to be set without requiring a separate deployment tool. The plug is designed with self-setting capabilities through its expansion mechanism that activates upon reaching the target position in the wellbore, eliminating the need for repeated tool deployment and removal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The plug assembly is designed to self-deploy and self-set at the target location. The expansion mechanism automatically activates when the plug reaches the desired position, allowing the plug to set itself without external tool intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for labor-intensive repeated tool deployment and removal
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple plugs are set using traditional deployment tools, then multiple isolation points can be created, but the deployment tool must be run in and removed multiple times increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented plug assemblies that can be independently deployed through the tubular string. Each plug is a self-contained unit with its own expansion mechanism, allowing multiple plugs to be set sequentially without requiring complex multi-functional deployment tools. The segmentation enables simplified repeated deployment of individual plugs
Solution Approach 2:
The tubular string with locator grapple serves as a universal deployment mechanism for setting multiple different types of plugs at different locations. The same tubular string and grapple system can deploy various plug designs, providing multi-functionality without requiring specialized tools for each plug type, thereby reducing operational complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and tool-less installation and removal of plugs within the wellbore, reducing time and labor, and allowing for selective sealing without the need for repeated tool deployment.
Implementation Method 1
A frangible locator element is arranged at the first end spaced from the at least one flexible wiper element
Implementation Method 2
At least one flexible wiper element is arranged at the first end
Implementation Method 3
a selectively deployable plug element is arranged at the second end
Data Source
AI summary
An isolation plug including a support element having a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween. At least one flexible wiper element is arranged at the first end. A frangible locator element is arranged at the first end spaced from the at least one flexible wiper element. A selectively deployable plug element is arranged at the second end.