Temporary plug system
US5479986A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jan 2, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 2, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B34/102
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method and apparatus for establishing a fluid plug within a well bore which can then be substantially destroyed upon demand to permit reestablishment of the well within a short period of time thereafter. Increased pressure actuates a plug rupture mechanism which destroys the integrity of the plug and allows the plug to be substantially eliminated from the wellbore within a short period of time thereafter. In described preferred embodiments, the plug is comprised of a salt and sand mixture which is highly resistant to fluid compressive forces but is subject to destruction under shear tension forces. The plug may be encased within a plug sleeve which is, in turn, encased within a plug housing which may be disposed within the well bore. The sleeve is associated within the housing so that fluid may be displaced about the plug sleeve as the housing is disposed into the well bore. When the plug has reached the proper position within the well bore, the plug sleeve may be set within the housing such that fluid flow is stopped. A shear member is contained within the plug sleeve and detachably connected thereto. When required, the shear member may be released from the surrounding plug slee…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.