Annular zonal isolation packer 0-0

Using expandable steel technology for zonal isolation even in oval boreholes

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Overview

Isolate zones rapidly, even in irregular boreholes

The annular zonal isolation packer (AZIP) uses patented Saltel Xpandable™ expandable steel technology and a patented thin layer of bonded elastomer to achieve zonal isolation. The elastomer is used together with expandable dynamic seals for temperatures above 250 degF [121 degC]. Different AZIP models are available to optimize performance for a range of applications.

The expansion port of the AZIP 0-0 features a valve system that is integrated within the casing thickness and serves as a safety feature. If the packer is expanded in front of a severe washout, the valve closes, preventing fluid loss. The port also enables a pressure balance with the inside of the casing, providing the capability for high-pressure injection or hydraulic fracturing through sliding sleeves.

Rated up to 10,000 psi [69 MPa]

Rated to 302 degF [150 degC]

Qualified to API Spec 19OH V1

Applications

Annular zonal isolation in openhole or cased hole vertical, deviated, or horizontal wells
Long-term cement backup or replacement
Primary cementing improvement

Benefits

Set the packer immediately with on-demand expansion

Seals effectively, even in oval, out-of-gauge, and irregular boreholes
Provides a cost-effective solution for the life of the well
Seals reliably through thermal cycling and temperature fluctuations
Minimizes cost with no special well fluid requirements for expansion
Saves time with on-demand expansion and immediate sealing
Minimizes NPT with robust construction that withstands reciprocation and rotation to pass through doglegs and tight spots

Features

Proprietary expandable steel technology
Simplified setting process
Compatibility with all standard casings
No reduction in casing ID
Built-in safety feature if expanded in front of a washout

Case Studies

Schematic of an AZIP isolating 2 openhole sections undergoing acid stimulation through sliding sleeves.

Case Study

Expandable Steel Packers Navigate Wellbore Restrictions to Isolate Openhole Sections for Acidizing

Robust packers maintain integrity and rapid expansion expedites targeted acid stimulation.

Learn more

FAQs

How is the packer set?

The packer is made up to a casing string that is run into the open or cased hole. Once in position, pressure is applied by pumping from surface to expand the packer. The lower end of the casing can be sealed with a plug and then the full string above is pressurized. Alternatively, the expansion port can be isolated using a cup tool or polished bore receptacle with an inner string.

Pressure is transmitted through the expansion port to the packer’s integral sleeve. The sleeve expands into the annulus between the casing and borehole or outer casing string, conforming to the shape of the wellbore or casing and isolating the annulus below the packer from the annulus above. Expansion of the sleeve also centralizes the casing string.

Schematic showing setting process and 2 use cases for annular zonal isolation packer 0-0.

A schematic of the setting process for an AZIP 0-0 is shown (bottom-left image). Use cases for the AZIP 0-0 include isolating sand screens (top image) or isolating a zone for injection (right-hand image).