WELL COMPLETION

Well completion is a technique, which allows production of fluid from a Hydrocarbon-

bearing reservoir to the surface.
The aim of a completion design is to deliver the fluid with the maximum safety and
efficiency throughout the life of a well.
The ideal completion is the lowest cost completion (considering both CAPEX and
OPEX) that meets or nearly meets the demands placed upon the well for most of its
life.

WELL COMPLETION DESIGN

Major factors which influence Well completion design are:

1. Reservoir parameter:
 Fluid volumes, depth, lithology of formation, sand consolidation,
number of Zones, pressure, temperatures, stimulation requirements,
etc.

2. Operating requirements:
 Producers/Injectors, secondary recovery, artificial lift(Gas lift,
SRP,ESP,PCP ,etc )

3. Type of completion:
 Single zone completion, Multi zone completion, Sub-sea completion,
Horizontal Completion, Gravel packs completion etc.

4. Production capabilities:
 The well completion design shall be for optimum production(or
injection) rate throughout the expected well life .If more reservoirs are
to be produced simultaneously then multiple completion is possible,
using single, dual or triple strings of tubing and one or more packers.
The choice will depend on
a) Production rates,
b) Reservoir-control requirements
c) Workover possibilities,
d) Artificial lift requirements,
e) Costs and standardization,

5. Fluid conditions:
 Pressure, temperature, corrosion, scale, paraffin, sand etc

6. Workover:
 Methods of Workover and frequency

7. Logistics and Safety:

 Onshore, offshore, sub sea, hilly terrain, thickly populated, river

bed or slushy land location.
  It is essential to select the correct equipment to satisfy safety of well
and environment. The equipment with fail-safe capability shall be used.
The well must be capable of being controlled at all times during its
operational life, using wellhead equipment, kill systems and/or
subsurface safety valves.

8 . Corrosion
 Corrosion in oil and gas wells generally involves carbon dioxide or
Hydrogen sulphide in presence of water. The problems associated with
corrosion can be minimized through correct selection of corrosion
resistant materials .Corrosion can be compounded through excessive
gas or liquid velocities i.e. erosion.

COMPLETION METHODS

Three basic types of well completion are

1. Open-hole completion
2. Cased-hole completion – Open , Closed and semi-closed completion
3. Liner completion.

1. OPEN HOLE COMPLETION

An open-hole completion refers to a well that is drilled to the top of the

hydrocarbon reservoir. The well is then cased at this level, and left open at the
bottom. Also known as top sets and barefoot completions, open-hole completions
are used to reduce the cost of casing where the reservoir is solid and well-known.
Open hole completions are only possible in “competent” rocks that will hold their
form and not cave in or crumble – so called hard rock environments. This technique
is generally associated with older, cheaper methods of drilling and completing wells
and today would only be used in very low profile applications, if at all.
  Advantages of open hole completion

I. Cheapest option to complete a well

II. Suitable for gravel pack which provides excellent sand control method where
productivity is important.
III. No perforating expenses and saving of rig time.
IV. Log interpretation is not critical since entire interval is open.
V. Full hole diameter is available to flow.
VI. Can be easily deepened.
VII. Easily converted to liner or perforated completion.
VIII. Facilitates ultra short radius multiple radial completion.

 Limitations of Open Hole Completion

I. Difficult to control Excessive gas or water production.

II. Difficult to selectively stimulate producing interval.
III. Difficult to fracture selectively.
IV. May require frequent cleanout.
 V. Subsequent cased hole completion will restrict well bore and completion string
diameter.

 Applications of Open Hole Completion

I. Low cost/multi well developments

II. Deep consolidated wells.
III. Naturally Fractured reservoirs.

2. CASED HOLE COMPLETION

In Cased hole completion casing is set throughout the producing

formation and cemented. Casing is then perforated to provide communication
between the well bore and formation.
This process involves running a perforation gun and a reservoir
locating device into the wellbore, many times via a wireline, slickline or coiled tubing.
Once the reservoir level has been reached, the gun then shoots holes in the sides of
the well to allow the hydrocarbons to enter the wellstream. The perforations can
either be accomplished via firing bullets into the sides of the casing or by discharging
jets, or shaped charges, into the casing.
  Advantages of the Cased Hole Completion

I. Ease in selectively completing and carrying out subsequent work over

operation in the producing zones or intervals.
II. Can effectively control gas and water production by selectively perforating and
isolating.
III. Can effectively control and monitor zonal fluid production.
IV. Permits multiple completions.
V. Selective stimulation and fracturing is feasible.
VI. DST’s Logs and formations samples provided information on casing setting
depth or abandon.
VII. Can be adopted for sand control.

 Limitations of the Cased Hole and Perforated Completions

I. Long interval perforation can be expensive.

II. Good cementing job throughout the production interval is a prerequisite for
cased hole completion.
III. More expensive than open hole completion.
IV. Log interpretation is absolutely critical so that commercial sand is not missed
and also to avoid perforating sub marginal zones

 Applications of Cased Hole Completion

I. Consolidated formation.
II. Multi reservoirs with different pressures.
III. When dual Completions are required

There are 3 types of cased hole completion- Open , semi – closed and closed cased
hole completion.

a) Open cased hole completion

In open cased hole completion casing is set throughout the producing formation and
cemented and there are no packers or standing valves present.
The advantages of this completion are - Suspended tubing can be used as a kill
string. It is easier and less damaging to reservoir to kill by circulation , tubing can be
used to inject corrosion inhibitor.
The disadvantages of this completion are - Casing is exposed to corrosive fluid, the
production casing is not protected against pressure effects during normal operations.
 Bridge Plug
Perforation
s
Float Collar Casing shoe

b) Semi – closed cased Completion

In semi – closed cased completion ,casing is set throughout the producing

formation and cemented. Packers are provided in this arrangement but no
standing valves are provided.
The advantages of this type of completion are - isolation of casing from well bore
pressure and temperature, quick enlivening of well by restricting volume to be
removed for enlivening the well to tubing volume only, suitable for artificial lift ,
the high gas pressure in case of gas lift completion does not act on the reservoir,
stable flow.
The disadvantages of this method are - Work over may be required in case of
packer leak and the packer may not get unset, SSD ( Sliding Slide Door) is
required to permit circulation between tubing and casing and this necessitates
wire line operation.

Bridge Plug
Casing Shoe Float collar Perforations
 c) Closed cased hole completion
In closed cased hole completion, casing is set throughout the producing formation
and cemented .Packers as well as standing valve is provided in this completion.

Besides all the advantages of semi closed cased hole completion another advantage
of this type of completion is that it is suitable for very low BHP wells as the standing
valve does not allow the well fluid from tubing to fall back to the formation.
The limitations are also same as semi closed cased hole completion with one
additional disadvantage being that the standing valve is to be removed every time
any job in perforations are done.

Casing shoe Bridge plug Perforations

Float collar
3. LINER COMPLETION

In a liner completion, casing is lowered much above the pay zone and a liner
hanger is set in the casing. A liner is a casing string that does not extend to the top
of the wellbore, but instead is anchored or suspended from inside the bottom of the
previous casing string. Completion using a liner is carried out to reduce casing cost.
Sometimes casing is run to the top of the pay zone and a slotted liner is set across
the producing formation. This type of completion (slotted liner) is primarily applied to
Horizontal well completion. Cementation is not done in slotted liner portion.
Advantages and disadvantages of the non cemented liner are same as of open hole
completion. Advantages and disadvantages of the cemented liner are same as of
cased and perforated completion.

 Applications of Linear Completion

I. Sandy wells (stable formation)

II. Horizontal wells completion.
WELL COMPLETION EQUIPMENTS

Well completion equipments primarily consists of

1. Wellhead equipments and Christmas tree for control and monitoring of the
produced fluid.
2. Bottom hole equipments, production string and accessories, which provides a
means for the produced fluid to flow from the bottom hole to the surface.

WELLHEAD EQUIPMENTS

Wellhead equipments are attached to the top of tubular goods used in a well. They
essentially do the following
 Support the tubular string and hang them
 Provide seals between strings and controls production from the well.

These equipment are covered by API Specification-6A

Wellhead essentially consists of four parts:

 Casing Head
 Well Head Spool.
 Tubing Hanger.
 X –mas tree

CASING HEAD
Casing head is a unit or housing attached to the top end of the Surface casing to
provide a means for supporting the other string of casing and sealing the annular
space between the two strings of casing.

It has a flange connection at the top to accommodate Blow out Preventor or

Intermediate casing head. A ring groove is provided in the top flange to seal next
equipments above i.e. intermediate casing head or BOP. Bottom connection is either
threaded or slip-on type to connect first casing or surface casing.
Casing head mainly consists of three parts.

1. Housing.
2. Casing hanger.
3. Primary seal.

Casing head will hang the heaviest casing string without being damaged and can
used repeatedly without machining. Sometimes lock-screws are provided, if
specified. They may be externally adjusted at any time during the life of the well.
Standard sizes are available of flange sizes 9”, 11”, 13-3/8”, 16-1/4”, 21-1/4” and
pressure rating of 2000, 3000,5000,10000 lbs.

Casing hanger consists of a set of slips and a sealing mechanism (primary seal). It
supports casing weight load. It also provides the added capacity required to permit
hanging the casing in full tension when desired. The casing hangers may be lowered
through the Preventor as soon as the cement plug hit the bottom. They automatically
set and support the entire weight of the casing in full tension and automatically seals
the annulus. They should be tested to the full working pressure rating of the hanger
under full casing load.
Slips are precision-machined with sharp inner teeth which provides a positive bite to
hold the casing securely.

WELL HEAD SPOOL

An intermediate casing head is a spool type unit or housing attached to the top
flange of the underlying casing head. The bottom flange will have the same size and
pressure rating of the top flange of casing head. A ring groove is provided to have a
sealing between two flanges with suitable ring gaskets. The Spool is equipped with
Bit Pilot to guide the tubings as it is lowered.
At the bottom of the spool, a recess is provided to accommodate secondary seal.

The secondary seals are hydraulically actuated by injection of plastic packing under
high pressures through a check valve to compress packing seal around the casing.
The seal can be packed any time by injecting more plastic through the injection port.
It is important to determine correct casing cut off length (4.1/4 inch in OIL) by
measuring distance from the top flange of casing head. After casing is cut at exact
Measurement, Filing and cleaning of the pipe is done to prevent scoring of the
secondary seal. The bore is cylindrical and one shoulder is provided to land tubing
hanger. Lock screw assembly is provided in the top flange. These lock screws may
be externally adjusted at any time during the life of the well to hold tubing hanger
down under light weight or to adjust body pack off of tubing hanger.

Bit Pilot Sealing Elements Tie Bolts

Casing port
Cross Sectional View of Well Head Spool

Tie Bolts Casing Valve

Side view of Well Head Spool

Bit Pilot Lock

Bottom Face of Well Head Spool without secondary seal

 Secondary seal

Bottom Face of Well Head Spool with Secondary Seal

TUBING HANGER

Tubing hanger is provided to secure and hang tubings. Two female threads are
provided in the Tubing hanger, one at the top and one at the bottom.
Tubing or completion string is connected to the bottom thread to hang. Top female
thread is required to land or to retrieve Tubing hanger with completion string. Tubing
hanger can be lowered through Blow Out preventer. Minimum I.D of Tubing hanger
must be same as I.D of tubings.
It has a body seal, which provides an adequate seal between tubing and spool.
Tubing hanger has an extended neck with one or more seal ring (T-Seal). The seals
may be plastic packed through ports in the adopter. These seals isolate produced
fluid from the atmosphere.

Tubing Hanger for 5000 psi completion

Round Seal

Tubing Hanger for 10000 psi completion

Flat Seal Round seal

Dual Tubing Hanger
Dual tubing hanger consists of two half section. It is designed to permit both
tubing strings to be run, hung or pulled independently .A sandwich-type pack off is
employed which can be landed through the blowout preventers, keeping the annulus
under positive closed protection at all times .The pack-off can be run either attached
to the second string of tubing or separately. Pack-off can be adjusted at any time
with lock screws in the tubing head flange and a perfect annulus seal formed prior to
removal of preventers. Threads for back pressure valves are machined into each
hanger. Tubing hanger is designed with an extended neck that is prepared to accept
two “T” types’ seal.

Hanger Flange

CHRISTMAS TREE

A Christmas tree is an assembly of valves and fittings used to control production and
provide access to the production string. It includes all equipments above well head.
The vertical Run consists of two valves. The bottom most is known as master
Valve and the next as top valve or crown valve. A Cross piece is provided between
master valve and crown valve to have side outlet. A Tree cap is connected at the top
of crown valve with a threaded hammer nut with a port to connect pressure gauge. A
tubing female thread is provided in the cap to have access for wire line operation. All
valves in the vertical string should have same bore of tubing string. Side outlet
consists of two valves on each side commonly known as side and arm valve and
bean housing on each side. The bean body accommodates bean housing and
beans of various sizes can be installed in the bean housing. The X-Mass Tree
pressure rating used in OIL is of 10000psi and 5000 psi. The vertical run valves are
of size 2.9/16 inch and horizontal run are of size 2.1/16 inch. In dual Christmas tree,
there will be two sets of vertical valves for two tubing strings and two sets of side
outlets on both sides. Generally, they are of solid block type.
X mass tree with gasket ring types, tubing spool and down hole completion
X Mas tree with valve and casing sizes
5000 PSIG X-MAS TREE / TUBING HEAD SPOOL

S/NO NOMINAL DIA STUD DIA & NO OF API RATING OF RING

( INCHES ) LENGTH STUDS JOINT GASKET
(INCHES)

1 2 1/16 7
/8 X 6 ¼ 8 RX-24

2 2 9/16 1 X 6 7/8 8 RX-27

3 3 1/8 1 1/8 X 7 ¼ 8 RX-35

4 7 1/16 1 3/8 X 10 3/4 12 RX-46

5 11 1 7/8 X 13 3/4 12 RX-54

6 13 5/8 1 5/8 X 12 3/4 12 RX-57

10,000 PSIG X-MAS TREE / TUBING HEAD SPOOL

S/NO NOMINAL DIA STUD DIA & NO OF API RATING OF RING

( INCHES ) LENGTH STUDS JOINT GASKET
(INCHES)

1 2 1/16 3/4
x5¼ 8 BX 152

2 2 9/16 7/8 x 6 8 BX 153

3 3 1/8 1 x6¾ 12 BX 154

4 7 1/16 1 ½ X 11 1/4 16 BX 156

5 11 1 ¾ X 15 16 BX 158

6 13 5/8 1 7/8 X 17 ¼ 20 BX 159

Rx ring joint Bx ring joint

TUBINGS
The tubing is a part of completion equipment which allows the production of fluid
from the reservoir to the surface.

Functions of Tubing
The functions of tubing are:

1. It is essential for well killing, circulation, and Workover.

2. Tubing provides optimized flow channel to produce optimum/maximum
efficient rate from a well.
3. Tubing is used to isolate casing from effect of high pressure, high temperature
and corrosive fluids
4. It facilitates completion, production and control of flow in multiple commingled
or parallel completions.
5. It is essential for most common artificial lift operations.
6. It facilitates the installation of common wire line operated down hole tools.

Tubing is defined by four parameters:

Size : Tubing size, or diameter, selection is based on the flow rates or pump rates
anticipated from the well. Flow rate, or pump rates are determined with a systems
analysis curve. A systems analysis is based on the inflow performance of the
reservoir and the tubing performance (Inflow Performance/Tubing Performance ).
Several different tubing sizes are investigated in a systems analysis, which aids in
determining a tubing size that will optimize the production rate for some period of
time.

Nominal weight. : Tubing weight is normally expressed as lb/ft and is a function of

the
thickness of the pipe wall. This measurement is an average and includes the weight
of the coupling.

· Steel grade : API has designated tubing grades based on chemical composition
and physical and mechanical properties of the pipe. Each grade has a designation
such as J55, K55, N80, L80, C75, and P110. The alphabetical designation in the
tubing grade specify the method of Manufacture, heat treatment, etc or steel quality ,
and the numerical designation reflects the minimum material yield strength in 1000
psi. The minimum yield strength must be sufficient to withstand forces in the tubing
caused by changes in pressure and temperature at depth.

· Tubing connections.
The tubing specifications are covered by API Specification-5CT.
It should be noted that the API tubing Classification covers tubular within the range
of 1.05”-4-1/2”, above this diameter tubular are referred to as casing. The standard
sizes of API tubings are 1.050”, 1.315”, 1.660”, 1.900”, 2.063”, 2.375”, 2.875”, 3.500”
and 4.500”.

API tubings are limited to two standard connections which are:

 API non -upset (NU) which is a 10-round thread-form coupled joint, where the
threads has less strength then the pipe body.
 API external upset (EUE) which is an 8-round thread-form couple joint, where
the threads has more strength then the pipe body.

In non-upset tubing, threads are cut directly on pipes, resulting in the strength of
threads becoming less strong than the pipe. In upset tubing, end of pipes are upset
and then threaded, resulting in strength of threads becoming stronger than the pipe.
Also thread length of upset tubing is longer than the non-upset tubing.

Thread Form
Thread form of API tubings are tapered, 30 degree round thread, non shouldering
(round crest and root V type-tapered ¾” per feet of length,)

Sealing
Seal is obtained by the use of a thread compound within non-mating threads. The
grease compound fills the helical pathway between the crest and root.

Coupling
For the same size of tubings, couplings OD of upset tubing will be more than non
upset tubing. When special clearance is needed, the tubing coupling can be
machined down to a given O.D without loss of strength. The manufacturer’s tables
usually give these special clearance values
When running dual or multiple completions, a special bevel should be ordered to
facilitate separate running or pulling of the tubings.

Tubing length range.

Tubing manufacturers generally deliver tubing of 20-24 ft length. This length is
known as Range-1.Tubing length of 28-32 ft is known as Range-2.Shorter length of
tubing of length 2-12 ft is known as pup joints

Non API Connections.

Special joints have been developed to overcome the limitations of API joints as
regards leak and high tensile load resistance, the first improvement was concerned
to the tensile load resistance and coupling clearance, by using the buttress
threaded coupled joints (Vam Thread). Then more improvements were achieved
concerning leak resistance using metal to metal seals and/or gasket seals. These
joints are often called “premium” or “proprietary” joints. The common premium
threads are Vam, Hydril and Atlas Bradford.

TUBING MAKE-UP TORQUE

Tubing defined as above, the nominal size, thread, weight and steel grade, and
tables of recommended make-up torque value, are supplied by the manufacturers
and by API connections (API 5 CT)
It should be remembered that it is strongly recommended to follow the table torque
values. Therefore correct measurement of these make-up torques on-fields is
essential; this will ensure effective sealing and load resistance and avoid possible
over screwing of the tubing joints. The torque make-up measurement should be
done with a direct reading Martin Decker or with a hydraulic torque gauge mounted
on the power tong.
In order to obtain an accurate measurement, the back- up cable connected to the
tong arm must
a) Be in the same horizontal plane,
b) Be at a 90 degree angle.
If these two recommendations are not followed, the value read on the torque
Indicator is of little importance.

Forces affecting tubing strings

1. Axial Loads
2. External pressure (completion fluids, oil, gas, formation
water)
3. Internal pressure (oil, gas, formation water)
4. Bending forces in deviated portion of well
5. Other forces due to thermal gradient or dynamics

SELECTION OF TUBING

Sizing production tubulars.

The size of the production string depends upon the diameter of flow conduit
(Single or multiple) needed to produce the desired flow stream, the method of
artificial lift, or specialized completion problems such as sand control.

Sizing of the production tubing depends primarily on the desire production rate.
Maximum production rate in a given well depends upon:
- Static reservoir pressure.
- Inflow performance relation,
- Pressure drop in tubing.
- Pressure drop through the wellhead constriction.
- Pressure drop through the flow line.
- Pressure level in the surface separating facilities.
Where maximum flow rate is an objective of well completion designs all of these
factors must be considered.
The corrosion erosion study:
This can indicate a maximum flow velocity to avoid a possible erosion of the steel or
the destruction of an inhibitor film.

The production casing drift:

To allow the completion equipments to be run in.

The artificial lift study:

Artificial lift will produce additional pressure losses.

The choice of nominal weight, steel grade and connections will result from a
compromise between the recommendations of the following studies
 The tubing stresses and movement study which will indicate the forces to be
taken into account for the entire well life.
 The corrosion and erosion study which will choose the tubular metallurgy.
 Completion and work over procedures which will introduce some constraints.

To determine the tubing grade and weight, the maximum collapse and burst loads
that act on the tubing are first calculated and multiplied by a safety factor. These
values are then used to make an initial selection of tubing grade and weight that
provides sufficient collapse and burst resistance. With the selected weight, the
tension load is calculated
and multiplied by a safety factor. This is then compared to the tensile strength of the
selected tubing. The selected tubing is accepted if its tensile strength matches or
exceeds the tensile load. Otherwise, another grade and/or weight are selected and
the calculations are repeated until a final selection is made.

The production of highly corrosive fluids may require internal flush connections or
internally coated tubings.Running a dual completion will require a special clearance
coupling with a special bevel on the coupling.
Flow coupling may have to be introduced in the tubing string above and below
restriction to avoid erosion due to turbulent flow. Blast joint may have to be
introduced in the tubing string against the perforation to avoid abrasion

The joint strength should be sufficient and capable of taking all load during entire
the life of a well including work over operation. It should not be exceed 80% of joint
strength. The burst and collapse pressures due to internal and external applied
pressure either during Workover, stimulation, or during normal production should be
checked. It should not be exceed 80% of pressure specified in the tubing
performance data.

Tubings used in OIL India Limited

In Oil India Limited, N80 tubings are mostly used. In corrosive environments, L80
tubings are used. J55 tubings were used previously but now their use is obsolete. In
case of deeper wells, P110 tubings can be used. The tubings are of 2- 7/8” O.D

The specifications of the tubings used in OIL India Limited are as follows :
PACKERS

A Packer is the part of the completion equipment which seals the casing –tubing
annulus. Packers are usually run for the following reasons:

 Provides an effective isolation of the casing tubing annulus from the produced
fluids for safety purposes, thus limiting well control to the tubing at surface.
 To isolate the casing from corrosive fluids and/or high pressure.
 To stabilize and control flow from pay zones.
 In conjunction with an artificial lift system (isolation and control), in gas lift, Jet
Pumps, PCP etc.
 To selectively produce multiple zones (isolation)
 Selective stimulation becomes feasible.
 Wire line and down hole operations become possible. (check)
 Hold an annular well killing fluid.
 It holds a part of the weight of the tubing string.

COMPONENTS OF A PACKER :
Packer mandrel
The packer mandrel is the tubular skeleton of the packer and serves to centre the
packer element and slips while providing a load bearing flow path through the
packer. The mandrel typically has a honed seal bore with anchor latch threads at top
to accept an anchor seal mandrel assembly, and threads at bottom.
Gauge rings

Gauge rings are located above and below the packer element. They are the largest
diameter part on the production packer. Gauge rings prevent the casing wall from
abrading the packer element during the trip in hole.

Back-up elements

The back-up elements are designed to expand as close as possible to the casing ID
to support the packer element from extrusion when this is compressed and
expanded in the set position.

Packer element

The packer element is the main sealing device that is compressed and expanded
during packer setting and fills the gap between the outside of the packer body and
the inside of the casing. The packer element may include one or more elastomer
units. A softer elastomer may be located in the middle and harder elastomers at both
sides. The configuration and materials are very dependent on wellbore temperature
ranges, pressure ranges and type of fluids. The packer element needs to be fully
“energized” during packer setting to achieve the best possible seal during operation.

Anchor mechanism

The anchor mechanism provides a means of gripping the casing to anchor the
packer at a selected depth and prevent movement of the packer and completion
string under wellbore dynamics. The far most common anchor mechanism is
expanding slips by use of a cone. The slips have wickers that bite the casing wall.
The wickers are angled so that they will work in a particular direction. If a packer is to
hold the pressure or tubing force from two directions, it must have two sets of slips
such that the wickers can work in both directions.

TYPES OF PACKER

All packers are set by applying a compressive force to the slips and rubber packing
elements. This force may be created in a number of ways, including tubing rotation,
slacking off weight onto the packer, pulling tension through the tubing, pressuring the
tubing against a plug. The techniques for creating the setting force are referred to as
packer setting methods

 Mechanical Packer: Also called hook wall packer is set by rotating the tubing
which engages the slips into the casing and then giving the weight which
compresses the packer and seals the casing tubing annulus.
 Hydraulic packer: This is set by hydraulically pressurizing the tubing from
surface which sets off the preset setting screws and seals the casing tubing
annulus.
 Straddle Packer: These packers are used for zone isolation and are run in
conjunction with either Hook Wall packer or Hydraulic packer. After the Hook
 wall or the hydraulic packer are set the compression of the tubing shears of
the screws on to the body of the straddle packer and with the movement of
the cone the sealing elements expand and the packer sets.

 Retainer Packer: This is a permanent type of packer set by wireline. The

tubing seal assembly is then lowered along with the tubing and is set into the
packer.

Selection of packers
While choosing a packer the following factors must be kept in mind:
1. Size of tubing and casing involved,
2. How many tubing strings involved.
3. Produced fluid or gas, especially as to corrosivity,
4. Well depth,
5. Pressure anticipated to hold, differential and absolute,
6. Direction of differential pressure,
7. Bottom hole temperature,
8. Anticipated cyclic changes in pressure or temperature,
9. Critical nature of position or placement,
10. Tubing to be in tension or compression,
11. Packer to be moved and reset
12. Completion fluid anticipated,
13. Extent of through-tubing work anticipated,
14. Anticipated future remedial work,
15. Setting and releasing mechanism and its compatibility to other
completion equipment,
16. Extent of skill required to set, retrieve, or fish,
17. Location of well and availability of service, repair, or
operational or fishing advice.

The various operational modes (flowing, shut-in, injection, and stimulation) that are
anticipated over the life of the well are critical and must be considered carefully in the
design phase. The changes in the operational modes that influence changes in
temperature, differential pressure, and axial loads all have a direct impact on the
packer. Understanding the uses and constraints of the different types of packers will
help clarify the factors to consider when making a selection

System description
The system description is a written step-by-step description of how the equipment
works as a system during the operational phases. The description also includes
interfaces to other equipment and operations. The major steps are described below.

Step 1: Make up and run in hole to setting depth

The production packer is normally run as an integral part of the traditional completion
string. Of main importance during this step is the ability of the packer to trip inside
drifted casing and in the wellbore fluid at an acceptable speed without damaging the
packer element and to prevent occurrence of severe suction effects (swabbing).
Swabbing may for example cause “nibbling” damages to the packer element or
premature setting of hydraulic set packers.
Step 2: Setting the production packer
Of main importance during this step is the capability of the packer to engage itself
sufficiently to the casing to ensure adequate hold and seal independent of well
angle, ovality and other conditions of the casing wall surface. Pressure from above
or below should not be able to disturb the packer location or position in the casing
during setting. Hydraulic set packers often only have a defined pressure range and a
‘hold time’ to complete the setting. To set the packer the completion string is
temporarily plugged off below the packer in order to create differential pressure
between inside and outside of the packer.

Step3: Testing of the production packer

The production packer is always function tested at the end of the setting cycle. This
is normally done by first doing a so-called pick-up weight test with the landing string
to confirm activation of the packer slips and holding devices, and secondly by a
pressure test on the A-annulus to confirm the packer element barrier seal.

Step 4: Replace failed production packer

A replacement of the production packer in a well is generally sought set higher in the
well above the old production packer setting depth as the surface of the production
casing wall likely will be in a better condition in a casing section that mainly has been
exposed to the A-annulus packer fluid.

Step 5: Operations
The production packer acts as a primary well barrier element during the well
production or injection phase. The production packer will also carry this role during
most well servicing activities. The anchor mechanism of the production packer will be
exposed to the forces during its lifetime induced by differential pressures across the
packer, temperature induced forces in the completion string and piston effects in the
completion string. These load scenarios are provided from the tubing stress analysis.
An additional load scenario to consider in design basis for production packers is
parting of tubing above and below the downhole safety valve. A parted completion
string above the downhole safety valve may create a significant upward piston effect
on the completion string. A parted completion string below the downhole safety valve
may give a ‘dropped string’ with an impact load on the anchor mechanism. The
packer element will be exposed to and affected by the differential pressure, well
pressure, fluid and temperature fluctuations. Finally, the production packer should
have a large through-bore design that has the ability to pass fluids at acceptable
rates with minimal pressure losses and accommodate running of e.g. logging- and
perforation tools.

Step 6: Removal
Permanent production packers are designed for well life and require substantial
destruction to be retrieved from the well. They are generally constructed with
components in materials that are easy to drill or mill out. The interface between the
production packer and the completion string is normally a tubing anchor that enables
disconnection of the completion string above the production packer without removing
the packer. The production packer is normally left in hole in the event of well
workover, with a new completion string holding a new replacement production
packer installed above.

Failure modes

Functions and related failure modes for the production packer during installation are:

Run in hole to predetermined depth without damaging the packer element

 Damaged packer element without actuation

 Premature activation of the packer

Setting the anchor mechanism

 No actuation at all
 Partly setting of the anchor

Setting the packer element

 No actuation at all
 Partly setting of the packer

Verify packer functionality

 Packer leakage
 Failure to take an overpull

Functions and related failure modes for the production packer during the operational
life time are:

Keep pressure integrity between tubing and annulus

 Tubing to annulus communication (TAC) through body

 Tubing to annulus communication across packer element

Keep the anchor function

 Premature packer movement

Disconnect tubing anchor

 Fail to disconnect tubing anchor

Functions and related failure modes for the production packer during the retrieval
phase are:

Remove the packer

 Fail to remove packer

The above failure modes are recommended to be used for the failure mode, effect
and criticality analysis (FMECA). Failure modes during failure reporting may be
less detailed.

Failure causes

Common failure modes and related failure causes are:

Partly reduced anchor effect

 Yield in the ratchet mechanism and thus movement of the lock ring
 Inadequate friction to casing
 Packer mandrel collapse due to both high axial load and differential pressure
 Packer mandrel collapse due to differential pressure from below with plug in
nipple
 Packer mandrel collapse at cone contact with high compression and pressure
from below

Packer leakage (catastrophic)

 Packer extrusion through the backup at high pressure and temperature

 Packer extrusion through anomalies in the casing ID at high pressure and
temperature
 Packer extrusion through backup defects
 Packer degradation due to temperature or chemicals
 Packer mandrel collapse due to both high axial load and differential pressure
 Packer mandrel collapse due to differential pressure from below with plug in
nipple
 Internal upper thread failure due to high tension load during stimulation

Partly disconnected tubing anchor

 Sheared threads due to excessive tension load in the completion string

No retrieval at all for the production packer

 Deformed mandrel pin when a plug set in nipple below packer (pressure from
below)
  Packer stuck due to sedimentation of weight material and other debris from A-
annulus packer fluid.

Several of the above failure modes can be prevented by correct yield strength of the
packer materials and testing in accordance with ISO14310. Note that the casing ID
and thus the casing weight will have a large influence on the pressure loads on the
packer due to less packer expansion.

Permanent Packers

The packer consists of a dual slip system which locks the packer in both directions. It
is termed permanent as once it has been set, it requires milling (or in extreme cases
drilling) to remove it as opposed to manipulation of the tubing string. The packer is
set either on wireline (electrically) or on drillpipe (hydraulically). This depends to a
certain extent on the deviation of the well or the weight of the packer and associated
tailpipe assembly.

A permanent packer contains a seal bore into which a seal locator( Tubing Seal
Assembly) on the production tubing will sting thus creating the seal between the
packer and the tubing. This seal locator may be of the type that latches onto the
packer, or of sufficient length to allow for tubing movement due to temperature
differences (expansion/contraction), pressure differential, piston and buckling effects.
It also contains a nipple profile such that the packer can be plugged off in the event
of wanting to isolate the formation below during workovers.

It is ideal for wells subject to frequent workover because the tubing is retrieved
easily.
Permanent packers are especially useful where tubing temperature may vary widely
because the seals slide up and down in the polished bore. They can be retrieved by
using a special tool on the end of the tubing in place of the seal assembly, but a
round trip with the tubing is required. It is primarily used in gas wells.
There is one important constraint with this packer-if the tubing remains in a place for
a long time at the same temperature and no movement occurs between the seals
and the polished bore, the seals may stick to the polished bore surface, creating a
tubing-retrieval problem.
Technical information of Permanent packer used in OIL India Limited

 Suitable for 5.5“ 20-23 ppf casing

 Packer O.D – 4.437 “
 Packer seal bore ID – 3 “
 Minimum bore through seals – 20375”
 Provided with blank bottom guide
 Packer has one packing element, full circle, single piece opposing slip and
metallic back up rings to provide 360 deg. Contact with casing I.D for effective
pack off and avoiding extrusion of rubber at high T & P
 Packer can be set by wireline
 Dressed with Nitrile- 70 Duro packing element
 Elastomer – Nitrile
Packer (Seal Locator) Tubing Seal Assembly
 Mechanical Packer

Mechanical Packer is a single string retrievable casing packer. It sets and

retrieves mechanically. It is a service packer used in

- Layer wise testing,

- Squeeze cementing,
- Stimulation,
- To find injectivity,
- To find casing leakage.

There are two types of mechanical set packer:

1. Weight set Mechanical Packer
2. Tension set mechanical Packer.

Weight set Mechanical Packer

Single-Grip Mechanical Packer

Single-Grip Mechanical Packer consists of:

 A packer mandrel with a box connection at the top, to connect tubing/drill

string,
 A pin connection at the bottom to connect tail pipe
 A packing element system of three elements, with sore hardness of 90-70- 90.
 J-Slot assembly with drag block and a set of slips. The drag block holds
against the casing and allow rotation of mandrel to engage or disengage with
J-Slot.
 An effective bypass design to equalize and to avoid swabbing. The bypass
area is controlled by a face seal-type bypass valve which is actuated by
stroke of the mandrel.

To set the Packer

Run the packer with tubings or drill pipes in the jayed position. In jayed
position bypass valve will be in open position to permit free circulation both
through and around the Packer. The packer, which is mechanically set by
means of a J-Slot arrangement, should be run one foot below setting depth
and then raised to the required position (to properly position the J-Slot) To
release from the J-Slot, pick up the string, rotate to the right one-quarter turn
at the packer, and then slack off. The JPin will move clear of the J-Slot and
the Cone will move under the slips. Application of set-down weight closes and
seals the bypass valve, set the slips, and packs off the packing elements. The
formation below the packer, which is now completely isolated from the
annulus above, is accessibly only through the tubing string. Set-down weight
required to pack off packing element system will depend upon the size of the
packer. It may range from 4000-15000 lbs.
To release the Packer
To release the packer, raise the tubing string the full length of the packer.
When the J-Pin shoulders, the J-Slot will be re-engaged, since the J-Pins on
the bottom sub are so spaced as to always have one J-Pin located in the J-
Slot when the tubing is picked up. When the tubing is lowered slightly, the J-
Pin automatically engaged the J-Slot if no right-hand torque is in the tubing at
the tool.
When the tubing is raised to release the packer, the bypass valve opens to
permit circulation through and around the packer.

Double-Grip Mechanical Packer

The double-grip mechanical packer is used where pressure differential from

below the packer is anticipated.

It features an integral hydraulic button-type hold-down that is located below

the bypass valve .It also incorporates a built-in, ”differential lock” which utilizes
a balance sleeve actuated by pressure from below the packer. This pressure
create additional downward force which, combined with set-down weight,
helps to maintain the force necessary to keep the bypass valve closed.
Running, setting and releasing procedures are same for both types of
mechanical packers.
Hold-down buttons should be energized with “protected” fluid, so that sand or
well debris will not lock buttons in out position.

Tension Set Mechanical Packer

This packer is similar to single grip mechanical packer or it is just a inverted
single grip mechanical packer.

To set the Packer.

Run the packer to the setting depth, making sure the last movement of the
tubing string is down in order to position the J-pin in the top of the J-slot
before trying to set the packer. Rotate to the left one-quarter turn at the
packer and pick up the tubing string About 1500 lbs of tension is needed to
set and pack-off the tool.

To release the Packer

Lower the tubing at least one foot more than is necessary to remove the
applied tension to move the J-pin to the top of the j-slot. Rotate to the right
one-quarter turn at the packer and pull out the string.
Calculation for weight released

As per Hooke’s law we have

Stress µ Strain
Stress/ Strain = Constant (Modulus of Elasticity)

i.e, Modulus of elasticity E = ( F/A)/( L/L)

Here we have , E= 3 x 10^ 7 lbs/ sq. inch

F = weight desired to be loosened on packers in lbs
L = Length of the tubing in inch.
A = Cross sectional area of tubing in sq. inch
L = Elongation in inch.

*
Technical information of double grip mechanical packer used in OIL India Limited

• Size: 5-1/2” OD 20-23 ppf Casing

• Thread connection : 2-7/8” EUE, 8 RD, for 6.5 lb/ft tubing
• Box up Pin Down
• Maximum O.D : 4.5 “
• Minimum I.D : 2.37 “
• Mandrel I.D : 2.37 “

2-7/8” EUE
Threaded
Connection J-Pins Mandrel

Bottom Sub

Slips Rubber Packing Hydraulic Hold Down Bye-Pass

Seal

Advantages of the Mechanical Packer

1. It is a very useful packer for well service/repairing job during work over
operation.
2. Can be released and reset at another depth at will, if sealing elements stay
intact.
3. The packer can be reused in other applications.
4. The packer does not have to be milled out, if it becomes necessary to
remove it, thus saving rig time.

Limitations of the Mechanical Packer

1. Available only as single string packer.
2. Deviated well often limit the use of compression-set packer
3. Hold-down buttons can be expected to fail, (at O-ring seals) after numerous
reversal in pressure.
4. It cannot stand for a higher differential pressure.
5. Cannot be used as a completion packer

Hydraulic Packer

The hydraulic-set packer has a bidirectional slip system that is actuated by a

predetermined amount of hydraulic pressure applied to the tubing string. To
achieve a pressure differential at the packer and set it, a temporary plugging
device must be run in the tailpipe below the packer. The applied hydraulic
pressure acts against a piston chamber in the packer. The force created by
this action sets the slips and packs the element off.

To set the packer, it is first run on tubing to the desired depth. The packer
actuating ball is dropped. The packer actuating ball needs about 2 to 3 hours
to reach the desired depth. The traveling time is dependent on the depth and
deviation. The tubing is slowly topped up with the fluid and the casing is kept
open to confirm the ball being set in the Pump Out Plug. If there is no return
through the casing the ball has occupied its position in the Pump Out Pug.
The tubing is pressurized hydraulically very slowly considering the detrimental
affect of the hammering action which may result in shearing of the pins
without any surface indication and also without actualizing the trigger
movement of the piston. There is slight drop in pressure after the setting pins
are sheared. The pressure has to be retained for few minutes for the seals
and the slips to engage in the casing. The pressure is further increased till the
ball shears off the pump out plug and the pump out plug along with the ball
falls to the sump. No return of fluid from the casing confirms the setting of the
packer.

The setting pressure is adjusted generally to around 1000 psi to 1200 psi :
The pump out is set to around 2400psi to 2600 psi. The release is adjusted to
around 25,000 lbs to 30,000 lbs pull.

ADVANTAGES AND LIMITATIONS

Advantages

1. Perfectly suited to the case of deviated or crooked holes as no tubing

movement is required to actuate the setting mechanism.

2. The setting mechanism can be actuated after installation of X- mas tree

and by displacing tubing volume by a lighter fluid (diesel ). This can be
of great help:

· To initiate production without swabbing or wireline work.

· In high pressures deep wells as perforation can be done in safe
condition by through tubing perforation.
· Through tubing perforation in under balance conditions.

3. The setting mechanism allows the string to be landed in neutral

condition or in tension. The tubing string are straight, which helps the
performance of wire line jobs.

4. High setting forces can be applied to allow for large pressure

differentials.
5. The packer does not have to be milled out if it becomes necessary to
remove it, thus saving rig time.
6. Are available in single or dual string configurations.
7. Are universally applicable.
Limitations

1. The well cannot be isolated from the producing zone while pulling out
the completion strings.

2. The setting-releasing mechanisms do not allow for very large packer

internal diameters.

3. Removal of a struck retrievable packer is a difficult operation which

could require considerable rig time and expensive tool cost.(generally
made of non drillable material )

4. Tubing length changes will result in force changes on the packer which
could lead to packer unsetting if expansion joint lengths have been
underestimated.

5. The sealing element may vulcanize and stick to the casing, creating
retrieval problems. This effect can be minimized by the choice of right
sealing materials.

6. Setting the packer may require wireline operations for tubing

pressurizing.(shearing ball seat-subs are available but not 100 %
reliable )

7. Pulling may swab the well in if packer elements are not fully contracted.
To avoid swabbing, reciprocate the string for a while before pulling out
the sting.

They have lower differential pressure rating unless otherwise called for.
Equalisation of pressure across the packer may be difficult, if provision of
equalization ports are not available in the packer or ports have been chocked.
Sand or other deposits above the packer, may make it difficult to retrieve.
Inclusion of a safety joint above the packer to counter this, introduces a weak
points in the tubing string and an additional possible leak source.
Technical information of hydraulic packer used in OIL India Limited.

Retrievable, straight pick up , adjustable, shear release; mechanically locked

in, three element pack –off, built in equalizing system for reliablerelease for
139.7 mm.
5 ½ “ O.D x 29.8 -34.3 kg/m (20-23 ppf) casing with ends 73.03 mm ( 2 7/8 ‘)
O.D EUE 8RD Box up and pin down to meet the following dimensions and
service requirements:

1. Maximum Packer O.D : 117.48 mm

2. Minimum Bore of the packer Mandrel : 60.33 mm
3. Setting Depth : 2450 -4250m
4. To with stand a differential pressure of 351.5 kg/ sq.cm (5000
psi) from top to bottom
5. To withstand a bottom hole T of 70 deg. C to 125 deg. C

Straddle Packer

These packers are used for zone isolation and are run in conjunction with
either mechanical packer or hydraulic packer. After the mechanical packer or
hydraulic packer are set the compression of the tubing shears off the screws
on the body of the straddle packer and with the movement of the cone the
sealing elements expand and the packer sets.

Technical information of straddle packer used in OIL India Limited

 Size: 45 A 4 x 2 – 3/8 “

 Snap set compression packer without hydraulic hold down with 2 – 7/8
“ EUE 8 RD Box up Pin down connection

 Packer is mechanical compression set without rotation.

 Has 3 packing elements for pack off

 Packer is straight pick up release with full bore mandrel

 Suitable for 5 -1/2 “ OD, 17-20 ppf casing

 Packer OD 4.625” Mandrel ID 2.375 “

 Elastomer - Nitrile
Gas Lift Valves

A gas lift valve is designed to stay closed until certain conditions of pressure
in the annulus and tubing are met. When the valve opens, it permits gas or
fluid to pass from the casing annulus into the tubing.
The basic valve usually includes a bellows. a chamber(dome) formed by one
end of the bellows and the wall and end of the valve, and a port that is opened
or closed by a stem tip. The stem tip is larger than the port and is attached to
the bellows by the stem.
Metal bellows charged with gas under pressure, usually nitrogen are used to
apply force to keep the valve closed. The operating pressure of the valve is
adjusted at the surface before the valve is run into the well. The bellows dome
may be charged to any desired pressure up to the pressure rating of a
particular valve. The compression of the spring can be adjusted. All gas lift
valves when installed are intended for one way flow, i.e. check valves should
always be included in series with the valve.

Gas pressure in the annulus causes gas lift valves to open. As the discharge
of gas and liquid from the tubing continues and well conditions change, the
valve will close and shutoff gas flow from the annulus. In the case of a
continuous flow system, the one valve at the point of gas injection will remain
open, thus, the injection of gas will be continuous. In the case of intermittent
flow, the injection valve opens and closes while the upper valves in the well
may open to assist lifting the slug to the surface. The gas injection valve,
placed at the bottom of the fluid column in the tubing, will open when pressure
in the annulus reaches the required pressure and close when pressure falls
below that level.
CIRCULATING DEVICES
The purpose of a circulating device in a completion is usually to:

1) To kill a well by circulating killing fluid through the circulating device.

2) To displace the brine in the tubing, prior to setting the packer.
3) To layer wise testing during work-over with two packers and a circulating
device.
4) To displace acid or solvents at the level of a zone during stimulation.
5) To inject gas into the tubing in gas-lift
6) To circulate gas which has accumulated below the packer during work-over
operation
7) For chemical injection to tubing

There are two types of circulating devices commonly used in the market:
1) Sliding Sleeve
2) Side Pocket Mandrel

SLIDING SLEEVE
Sliding Sleeve is a down-hole flow control devices mounted in the production
tubing. It effectively controls flow between the tubing and casing annulus, by
means of an internal sleeve that is opened or close by standard wire-line
methods.
Sliding Sleeve has a collet stop acting on the inner sleeve to positively lock
the sleeve either in the full closed or full opened position. The inner sleeve
contains small slots, which are opened first to provide a means of equalization
before the primary circulation ports are fully exposed.
In the open position, the port circulating flow area is equivalent to the area of
the I.D. of the sleeve, reducing pressure drop to a minimum. Tensile strength
of most sliding sleeves is equal to the equivalent tubing size and grade.
The seals used in sliding sleeves are of two types, either stationary seals or
dynamic seals.
The stationary seals through the inner sleeve must move are consist of a VEE
packing stack used as a primary seals and a T-seal as secondary seal which
also keep the packing sealing surface clean..
A dynamic or bonded seals in the inner sleeve are also used. It provides easy
movement of inner sleeve.
When communication between the tubing and casing annulus is desired, a
wire-line shifting tool is run to the depth of the sleeve. It automatically locates
in the shifting profile machined into the inner sleeve. For those sleeves, which
open in the upward direction, light, upward jarring moves the inner sleeve
slots past the seal rings so equalization can begin. After equalization,
continued upward jarring fully opens the sliding sleeve and shifting tool
automatically releases. The shifting tool is turned over, run into the hole and
the procedure is performed in reverse to close the sleeve.
Sliding sleeves have landing nipple profile incorporated into the device. This
profile may be no-go nipple or selective nipple. These nipple profiles allow for
the landing, sealing and locking of blanking plugs, pack-offs, bottom hole
chokes, jet pumps, and separation tools. A polished sub area in the bottom of
the sleeves receives the lower pack-off from a separation tool or a pack-off
assembly.
 The closing sleeve is recessed so that there is no danger of opening or
closing the sleeve by mistake while running wire-line tools through or while
seating a flow control devices in the Sliding Sleeve.
Any number of sliding sleeves may be run in tandem and still accept wire-line
flow control devices. Selective type locks will pass through as many of the
sleeves as the operator chooses and seat in any sleeve he selects.
Sliding Sleeves may be used to establish tubing to annulus communication for
such operation as

 Displacing the tubing or annulus fluid after the X-mas tree is installed.
 Selective testing, treating and production of individual zones in a multizone
selective well.
 Using the tubing to “kick-off” the annulus in a tubing annulus dual completion.
 Killing a well by circulation.
 Landing a blanking plug in nipple profile to shut the well or when testing
tubing.
 Landing commingling chokes in nipple profile.
 Circulating inhibitors for corrosion control

SIDE POCKET MANDRELS

The Side Pocket Mandrels are a circulating device and a must for gas lift operation.
Side Pocket Mandrels are box threaded on both ends and are made up as part of the
tubing string when preparing a well for production. Each mandrel is designed with
eccentric swages on both ends and a side pocket. This pocket serves as a receiver
for retrievable side pocket valves. The pocket also facilitates operation of running
and pulling with kickover tool for inserting and removing valves from the pocket by
standard wire-line methods. Most mandrels offer full tubing drift I.D. which allows
for normal wire-line operations through the tubing string. The side pocket mandrel
can receive either 1-1/2” O.D. or 1” O.D. valves. Tensile strength of most side pocket
mandrels is equal to the equivalent tubing size and grade.
The side pocket mandrel may have a special feature, which include a guide or
orientation sleeve for aligning side pocket accessories by receiving the finger on the
kickover the tool and orienting the tool with the pocket. A tool discriminator guides
the proper tools into the pocket and deflects others of larger sizes.

Some types of mandrels are constructed of round body pipe, rather than oval pipe
used in most standard mandrel. This type of mandrel has a slightly reduced external
O.D to enable running in heavy weight casing (smaller I.D) and in dual completion.
Any number of side pocket mandrels may be run in tandem and still receive valves in
each pocket. Valves can be installed or retrieved in any mandrel by standard wireline
operation. For gas lift, it is often necessary to have several injection points above the
top packer so as to be able to use a medium pressure available gas source, and at
the same time to optimize the volume to be injected.

The side pocket mandrel has the advantage of not having any elastomer in the down
hole. All elastomers are in the retrievable valve and can be replaced by wire-line
operation, in case it leaks.
The drawback to the side pocket mandrel is that its ports have a cross sectional area
less than that of tubing, when it is using as a circulating device. Sometimes
eccentricity of side pocket mandrel creates a problem while running in a deviated
well, particularly when tubing weight is not sufficient.

The side pocket mandrels with different feature are available in the industry for
different application:

b) Mandrel for deviated wells

A special guide or orienting sleeve provides for alignment and insertion of the
valve into the pocket. A forged tool discriminator guides the smaller diameter side
pocket equipment into the pocket and deflects larger tools into the tubing bore.

This feature is very useful in a deviated well.

c) Mandrel for chamber lift and for gas injection below a packer.

The mandrel features ports in the side pocket, which communicate directly with
the annulus. In addition, an exhaust port is located at the bottom of the pocket of the
mandrel. This port is extended downward and externally through a ½” pipe for
connection to the top packer of a chamber lift installation. The port also provides a
flow path for gas injection below a packer in gas lift operation, high pressure injection
gas is injected down the casing annulus. Gas enters the mandrel, travels through the
ports in the valve and down the exhaust port.

d) Mandrel for annular lift

This mandrel features a snorkel which functions as an exhaust port. Located at the
bottom of the side pocket, this snorkel extends downwards and externally. The holes
in the side pocket communicate directly with the tubing. When gas is injected down
the tubing, it enters the mandrel pocket through holes between the two packing
bores, and travels through the ports in the gas lift valve. Flow continues downward
through the snorkel and is exhausted into the casing.

e) Mandrel for water flood.

This type of mandrel is designed for use in single string, multizone fluid injection
in water flood operation. Injection fluid flows from the tubing into the mandrel and
regulator valve and exits downwards through an exhaust port at the bottom of the
side pocket. With this design a non retrievable check valve can be made up directly
to the exhaust port, preventing backflow from the annulus when the waterflood
regulator is removed.

f) Mandrel for injecting fluid or gas directly into the mandrel.

A mandrel with this design is constructed with a pipe welded onto its side for
injecting fluid or gas directly from the surface into mandrel pocket. In gas lift
operation, injection of gas down the casing annulus is avoided. From the side pipe,
gas may enter the mandrel pocket, travel through the gas lift valve and into the
tubing.
Flow also will continue downward if the side pipe has been extended from the top
mandrel to connect with a series of this type of mandrels in the same string.

g) Mandrel for chemical injection.

This type of mandrel is constructed with a lug connected to the side pocket. A small
chemical injection line runs from this lug to the surface. In chemical injection wells,
fluid is injected down the flexible line. Fluid moves through the mandrel pocket,
through the chemical injection valve and into the tubing. This feature is beneficial
when an operator wants to introduce two separate chemicals into the well. With the
additional conduit, the mandrel is isolated from the annulus, leaving the annulus free
for other production use.

Side Pocket Mandrels may be used to establish tubing to annulus communication

for such operation such as-

· To install a gas lift valve in a gas lift operation.

· To install chemical injection valves to inject inhibitor or any chemicals.
· To install water injection flow regulators in water injection operation.
· Displacing the tubing or annular fluid after the X- mas tree is installed
· Selective testing, treating and production of individual zones in a multizone
selective well.
· Using the tubing to “kick-off” the annulus in a tubing annulus dual completion
· Killing a well by circulation.
· Installing a dummy valve in side pocket mandrel to shut the well.
· Installing down hole choke
· To displace the brine in the tubing to diesel, prior to set the packer

Landing nipple

Landing nipples are utilized to permit the landing, locking and sealing of locks
with attached flow control devices in the production string It is a reduced bore
polished nipple.

There are three types of landing nipple available:

1. Top No-Go Landing Nipple.

2. Bottom No-Go Landing Nipple.
3. Selective Landing Nipple
The internal profile of these nipples includes a shoulder, which engages the
no-go of the lock and a locking recess. In top no-go type nipple, this shoulder
is at the top of the nipple and in bottom no-go type nipple this shoulder is at
the bottom of the nipple.
When installed, the locking dogs of the lock move out into the recess of the
nipple and the lock packing seals in the polished bore section.
To install a no-go lock in these nipples, the lock and attached flow control
device are run into the tubing using standard wire-line methods. The
assembly is lowered until the no-go of the lock contacts the nipple no-go
shoulder. Downward jarring forces the locking dogs of the lock into the locking
recess of the nipple, anchoring the assembly.