Disappearing plug
US7395856B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jul 8, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B2200/08
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A system allows for sequential treatment of sections of a zone. Access to each portion can be with a sliding sleeve that has a specific internal profile. Pump down plugs can be used that have a specific profile that will make a plug latch to a specific sleeve. Pressure on the plug when latched allows a sequential opening of sleeves while zones already affected that are below are isolated. The pump down plugs have a passage that is initially obstructed by a material that eventually disappears under anticipated well conditions. As a result, when all portions of a zone are handled a flow path is reestablished through the various latched plugs. The plugs can also be blown clear of a sliding sleeve after operating it and can feature a key that subsequently prevents rotation of the plug on its axis in the event is later needs milling out.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.