Annular Zonal Isolation Packer 0-0 | SLB

Annular zonal isolation packer 0-0

Using expandable steel technology for zonal isolation, even in oval boreholes

minus

Isolate zones rapidly, even in irregular boreholes

The annular zonal isolation packer (AZIP) uses patented 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
  • Annular zonal isolation in openhole or cased hole vertical, deviated, or horizontal wells
  • Long-term cement backup or replacement
  • Primary cementing improvement

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
  • 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

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 (bottom-right image).