Pumpable Test Plug With Radial Fins for Reliable Downhole Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolation plugs used in wireline assemblies for pressure testing in subterranean wells can accidentally set early or get hung up on debris, compromising the integrity of the test process.
Innovation Solution
A test plug with no moving parts, featuring radial fins for pumping down the tubular string and a sealing head that seats against a downhole seat, ensuring reliable sealing without hydraulic or mechanical setting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing isolation plugs with hydraulic or mechanical setting mechanisms are used, then the plug can be set to seal the tubular string, but the plug may accidentally set early or get hung up on debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all hydraulic or mechanical setting mechanisms from the isolation plug design. The plug body is configured to be pumped down the tubular string using fluid flow, and it automatically seals against the tubular wall through the pumping action itself, eliminating the need for separate setting mechanisms with moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation plug uses the pumping fluid flow to both transport itself down the tubular string and to achieve sealing against the tubular wall. The plug's own movement through the fluid flow creates the sealing action, making the system self-sufficient without external setting mechanisms.
2Reliability
If isolation plugs with moving parts are used, then sealing can be achieved, but premature setting may occur compromising test integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates hydraulic or mechanical setting mechanisms that could accidentally activate. The plug body is configured to be pumped down the tubular string using fluid flow, and it automatically seals against the tubular wall through the pumping action itself, eliminating the need for separate setting mechanisms with moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is designed to seal only after being pumped into position by fluid flow. The pumping action itself prepares the plug for sealing by forcing it against the tubular wall, ensuring that sealing occurs only at the intended location and time, preventing premature setting.
3Reliability
If plugs with hydraulic setting mechanisms are used, then sealing force can be applied, but the mechanism may get hung up on debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all hydraulic or mechanical setting mechanisms from the isolation plug design. The plug body is configured to be pumped down the tubular string using fluid flow, and it automatically seals against the tubular wall through the pumping action itself, eliminating the need for separate setting mechanisms with moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces hydraulic or mechanical setting mechanisms with a fluid-driven pumping system. The isolation plug is transported and sealed using fluid flow dynamics rather than mechanical actuators, eliminating complex hydraulic systems while maintaining effective sealing force through the pumping action.
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
The test plug effectively prevents premature setting and ensures proper seating, allowing for accurate pressure testing and subsequent well operations by maintaining the integrity of the tubular string.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of radial fins (20) are positioned on or extend from the test plug body (12). The fins (20) allow the test plug to be pumped down the tubular string by pumping fluid from the surface into the string.
Implementation Method 2
The head (14) defines a sealing surface (16) for sealing cooperation with a seat defined in the tubular string
Data Source
AI summary
A pumpable, pressure test plug is provided that has radial fins. The radial fins, which extend from the test plug, allow the plug to be pumped down a subterranean tubular string using a pumping fluid to move the test plug. The test plug is released from a wireline assembly prior to pumping the test plug down the tubular string. A seat is defined downhole in the tubular string to cooperate with a head of the test plug, which seals against the seat positioned in the tubular string.