Completion Packer Basic
Outline
Functions Of Packer
Basic Packer Components
Packer Classification
Retrieval Methods
ISO Design Criteria
Packer Envelope
ISO Standards
Circle of Force of a Packer
Packer Accessories
What is a Packer?
A packer is a piece of downhole equipment that consists of a sealing device and
inside passage for fluids. Its purpose is to block the flow of fluids through the
annulus.
Packer
Key equipment in completion
string which provides isolation
& downhole anchoring
functions.
Other Functions
Downhole Tubing Anchor/ Primary Load Bearing
Casing Protection/ Flow Control
PACKER
Packer Basic Components
Elements
Ratchet Gauge Ring Gauge Ring Mandrel
Cone Cone
Slips Slips
Function of each key components:
• Elements: Sealing & Isolation
• Gauge Rings: Protect elements while RIH & keep
elements in place while packer set
• Slips: Bit into casing and hold packer in place
• Cone: Push slips out and hold slips in place, keep
slips align
• Ratchet: One way movement, lock the packer in
place after it is set
Mandrel: Backbone of the packer, all other components
are sliding on the mandrel
Most packers have these six basic elements.
actual continuity/setting mech. to string: mandrel,
a seal: Element,
a biting component: slips,
Cones to extrude these slips,
Ratchet to lock in all the process,
Gauge ring to protect the elements from wearing off while
RIH.
Later “Components in Depth”. Elements style-testing FEA,
Slips style-testing FEA, Cones: multiple cone angles, back-
angle on upper cone.
Function of each key components:
• Elements: Sealing & Isolation
• Gauge Rings: Protect elements while RIH & keep
elements in place while packer set
• Slips: Bit into casing and hold packer in place
• Cone: Push slips out and hold slips in place, keep
slips align
• Ratchet: One way movement, lock the packer in
place after it is set
Mandrel: Backbone of the packer, all other components
are sliding on the mandrel
Most packers have these six basic elements.
actual continuity/setting mech. to string: mandrel,
a seal: Element,
a biting component: slips,
Cones to extrude these slips,
Ratchet to lock in all the process,
Gauge ring to protect the elements from wearing off while
RIH.
Later “Components in Depth”. Elements style-testing FEA,
Slips style-testing FEA, Cones: multiple cone angles, back-
angle on upper cone.
Packer Basic Components – Ratchet
OneCAT classification tree: Packers
How are Packers Rated?
Pressure and performance ratings for packers are determined by their
ability to remain set and maintain pack off at maximum pressure,
temperature ratings and casing grades.
The judging criteria is as follows:
Differential pressure ratings can vary between 4,000-15,000 psi
Temperature ranges vary up to 450º F
Casing grades (tensile strength and minimum yield strength based on
pressure and corrosion requirements)
Ví dụ:Một ống casing P-110 có
giới hạn chảy tối thiểu là ~110
ksi→ Có thể chịu ứng suất kéo
tới 110.000 psi mà không bị biến
dạng dẻo.
Factors that affect pressure and performance ratings
Durometer (hardness) of packing elements, seals and o-rings
Temperature
Tubing limitations
Surface condition of casing ID
Casing weight range limitations
Gases
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Packer Classification
Permanent &
Retrievable
Seal Bore & Tubing
Mounted
Hydraulic Set ,
Wireline
&Mechanical Set
Retrievability- Permanent Packers
Permanent packers are simple in design and do not usually include
complicated mechanisms.
They are very reliable and can withstand considerable strains, as well
as high differential pressures. Permanent packers offer flexible
tubing/packer connections and can be left in the well during workover
operations to change production equipment.
The biggest drawback to permanent packers is that they can only be
removed by milling or drilling out
Retrievability- Retrievable Packers
Retrievable packers are designed to be unseated and pulled out of the
well through the use of an incorporated mechanism.
They do not need to be milled or drilled out. Depending on the model,
they are hydraulically or mechanically set.
They are connected to the tubing permanently unless a disconnection
joint or divider is included in the tubing string above the packer.
They are easy to run in deviated wells and are available in dual and
triple versions for multiple string completions. It is possible to set
several retrievable packers in the same well at the same time.
Setting Methods
Mechanically Set
Mechanical packers are set through the manipulation of the tubing string.
Typically, rotation combined with an upward or downward movement of
the tubing sets the packer.
Release a mechanically set packer by:
1. Picking up the tubing
2. Rotating the tubing
3. Applying of tension to shear tubing
Setting Methods
Hydraulically Set
Hydraulic packers are set by using the hydraulic force generated within
the packer.
Release a hydraulically set packer by:
1. Rotating the tubing
2. Applying tension to shear tubing
Wireline Set
Wireline set packers use an electric line pressure setting tool. A powder
charge in the setting tool is ignited by an electric current which creates
gas pressure.
Gas pressures then push a hydraulic piston, which produces the force
needed to set the packer and shear the disconnect.
Packer Applications
Production Packers
A production packer is a device installed in wells to create a seal between
the tubing string(s) and casing, isolating the annulus.
There are many benefits to a production packer. They:
Isolate and protect the casing from high pressures (during injection or
stimulation) and corrosive gases or fluids
Come in dual configurations for production of multiple zones
Isolate zones for segregated production
Service Packer
Retrievable service packers are used for remedial applications such as
squeeze cementing, fracturing, acidizing and other operations
where high-pressure differentials are required.
They are designed to be set and released multiple times in the same well
and are removed from the well when the service application is
completed.
Sturdier design for longer use before having to be serviced. Rental tool
only (in most cases)
Used to isolate and repair damaged casing
Packer Classification – Examples
Model L: Hydraulic set, Sealbore, Permanent packer
Hydro-6: Hydraulic set, Tubing Mounted, Retrievable packer
SOT-1: Mechanical set, Tubing Mounted, Retrievable packer
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers Seal Bore Packers Tubing Mounted Dual String Packers Mechanical Packers
(Permanent) (Retrievable) Hydraulic Set Packers
HSP Quantum Hydro-5,6 & 8 Omegamatic,
Hydro-12
Storm Pkr &
QL Quantum X
Omegamatic LS
QLB MRP &
QMax MRP-ESP
QLS
QLH SOT -1
XHP
QHS
XMP
Swellable Packer
Packer Envelope
The definition of the performance limit of a Packer.
ISO 14310 Packer Performance Characteristics
Packer Test Conditions
Unplugged Plugged Isolated
ISO 14310 Packer Test Conditions
Upper annular
pressure: Pa
Tubing pressure: Pt
Lower annular
pressure: Pr
Unplugged Plugged
Isolated
ISO 14310 Standard
Seven design validation grades of increasing severity:
V6 : Supplier/manufacturer defined
V5 : Liquid test
V4 : Liquid test + axial loads
V3 : Liquid test + axial loads + temperature cycling
V2 : Gas test + axial loads
V1 : Gas test + axial loads + temperature cycling
V0 : V1 + zero bubble acceptance criteria
Some Packer Selection Guide
Casing ID
Casing weight
Well Conditions ( pressure, temperature, fluid pptys)
Well application
Packers & Accessories
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers Seal Bore Packers Tubing Mounted Dual String Packers Mechanical Packers
(Permanent) (Retrievable) Hydraulic Set Packers
HSP Quantum Hydro-5,6 & 8 Omegamatic,
Hydro-12
Storm Pkr &
QL Quantum X
Omegamatic LS
QLB MRP &
QMax MRP-ESP
QLS
QLH SOT -1
XHP
QHS
XMP
Swellable Packer
Seal Bore Packers
Setting Mode
W/L Setting Tool
Hyd. Setting Tool
Hyd. Tubing Set (e.g. HSB)
Permanent Seal Bore Packers
Model QL
Model QLB
Model QLH Hydraulic Set
Model QLHB Step Bore Hydraulic Set
HSP-1 Hydraulic Set Seal Bore Packer
Model NIS Permanent Seal Bore Packer
QL & QLB Packers
QL QLB
Permanent Seal Bore High Performance,
millable packers
The Model “QLB” is an ideal packer for
use in applications with large tubing ID’s.
Set on wireline or hydraulically with a
separate hydraulic setting tool
Excellent high pressure production or
sump packer
W/L
QL & QLB Setting on W/L Adapter Kit
CPST-AA
Features/Benefits/Limitations
Accurate, Fast & Reliable
Expanding Gas vs hydraulic setting
mode.
Pressure balanced design
Packer Assembly Weight Limitations
Trajectory Limitations
CPST
Hydraulic Setting Method
(Type III Service Tool)
Hydraulic Setting – Dropped Ball or Closed System
Immediate Packer Testing After Setting
Design Allows Higher Setting Forces
RIH Auto-Fill & POOH String Drain Features
Primarily Use – Sand Control Applications
Trajectory Insensitive
Round Trip w/ Workstring Required
Setting Depth Inaccuracy vs. E-Line
NIS Packer
Features/Benefits
One Trip/Non Intervention to Set Pkr
No Plugs, Setting Tools or Other Interventions Required
Uses Hydrostatic Pressure to Set
Must Be Deployed in Closed Chamber
Contingency - Conventional Tubing Pressure Set Option
Retrieval Methods
Straight Pull
To release the packer, simply pick up until the preset tension to release
shear value is exceeded. After shear value releases the mandrel, the
mandrel moves up thereby exposing the circulating/ equalizing port
that may be used for circulating before pulling out of hole.
Retrieving Tool
Quantum Max Retrieving Tool
Releasing Collet Shear Screw
Mandrel Anchor Latch
Shear Screw
Spring
Cone
Mandrel
Milling
Rapid Mill & Removal
Tungsten-Carbide tipped milling
shoe can mill out the largest
packer in a single trip
Retrieves the packer body and all
lower extensions
Milling tool features a safety
release from the packer if the
packer cannot be retrieved
Milling Tools
Used to quickly and safely mill over and/or retrieve
packers, permanent bridge plugs, and cement
retainers from the well.
Millout time is reduced to the minimum due to
specifically designed milling shoes.
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers Seal Bore Packers Tubing Mounted Dual String Packers
(Permanent) (Retrievable) Hydraulic Set Packers
Hydro-5,6 & 8
HSP Quantum Mechanical Packers
MRP &
QL Quantum X MRP-ESP
QLB
QLS QMax XHP
QLH SOT -1
XMP
QHS
Hydro-12
Retrievable Seal Bore Packers
Setting Mode
W/L Setting Tool
Hyd. Setting Tool
Hyd. Tubing Set
Retrievable Seal Bore Packers
Quantum
Quantum X
Quantum maX
QUANTUM Packer
Specifically designed for all aspects of sand control operations
Core component of the QUANTUM GP System
Designed for production gravel packing
The position-indicating mechanism ideal for deep, deviated and
horizontal wells no rotation is required to set the packer
Achieved through pressure and vertical movement
Pressure ratings 6000 to 8000 psi. Temperature ratings 250ºF to
350ºF
QUANTUM X Packer
Core component of the HTHP gravel pack system
Suitable for high pressure, high volume STIMPAC* treatments rated
at 10,000 psi @ 325ºF.
Planned development to 15,000 psi @ 425ºF with only a materials
change
Standard torque through rating is 10,000 ft-lbf
Capable of up to 200,000 lbf tailpipe load
QUANTUM HS
Hydraulically set with the production string rated to 6,000 psi at 250ºF
An elastomer upgrade to extend the temperature rating to 350ºF and
the pressure to 8,000 psi
Retrievable and millable
Standard, stepped and large-bore systems
Application Summary Retrievable Seal Bore Packers
Medium-High Pressure/Medium-High Temperature
Hostile Environment
Suitable for Production, Injection, TCP, Stimulations, Testing &
Sandface Applications
Subsea/Deep Applications
Often used in Multizone, Single & Dual String Completions
High Volume Production – Larger Bores
Suitable for Tension & Compression Loading
Connect/Disconnect/Reconnect Utility
Host Product For:
3 Types of Expansion Joints
Multiple Seal Assembly Configurations
Hydraulic Set & Wireline Set versions
Accurate Setting Position w/Wireline setting assembly
Highly-Deviated/Horizontal Wells w/Hydraulic Set
version
Intervention required to retrieve.
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers Seal Bore Packers Tubing Mounted Dual String Packers
(Permanent) (Retrievable) Hydraulic Set Packers
Mechanical Packers
Hydro-5,6 & 8
HSP Quantum Omegamatic,
MRP & Storm Pkr &
QL Quantum X MRP-ESP Omegamatic LS
QLB
QLS QMax XHP
QLH SOT -1
XMP
QHS
Hydro-12
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers Seal Bore Packers Tubing Mounted Dual String Packers
(Permanent) (Retrievable) Hydraulic Set Packers
Hydro-5,6 & 8
HSP Quantum Mechanical Packers
MRP &
QL Quantum X MRP-ESP
QLB
QLS QMax XHP
QLH SOT -1
XMP
QHS
Hydro-12
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers
(Permanent)
Code Full Name Description / Key Features
HSP Designed for high pressure and high
HSP High-Performance Seal temperature operations, very robust seal
QL Packer integrity.
QLB
QLS Enables fast and simple seal assembly
QL Quick Lock
QLH engagement, reducing rig time.
QLB Quick Lock – Bore Focused on precise bore sealing and
enhanced internal diameter alignment.
QLS Quick Lock – Slimline Slim body design for narrow or restricted
wellbores.
QLH Quick Lock – High Load Built for high mechanical loads and differential
pressure environments.
Packer Families
Seal Bore Packers
(Retrievable) Code Full Name Description / Key Features
Quantum Standard retrievable seal
Quantum Quantum Retrievable Packer bore packer; reliable and
Quantum X field-proven for general
completions.
QMax
Enhanced version of
Quantum Quantum eXtended Quantum with improved
X sealing and higher pressure
capability.
QHS
Designed for maximum
QMax Quantum Max performance – larger bore,
higher pressure/temp
tolerance.
Optimized for high-load,
QHS Quantum High-Strength high-strength applications in
challenging well
environments.
Packer Families
Tubing Mounted
Hydraulic Set Packers
Hydro-5,6 & 8 Model Full Name Description / Key Features
Standard hydraulic-set packers mounted
MRP & Hydro-5,6 & 8 Hydro Series 5, 6, and 8 on tubing; used for a wide range of
MRP-ESP completions.
MRP Medium-Range Packer Tubing-conveyed hydraulic set packer for
XHP medium-depth, general service wells.
XMP MRP adapted for Electric Submersible
MRP-ESP Medium-Range Packer – Pump (ESP) applications; includes cable
ESP version bypass options.
Extra High Pressure Designed for extremely high-pressure
XHP Packer environments; tubing-mounted and robust
construction.
Extra High-Temperature Optimized for high-temperature well
XMP Packer environments; reliable sealing and durable
elastomers.
Packer Families
Dual String Packers
Model Full Name Description / Key Features
A hydraulic set packer designed for
Hydro-12 Dual dual tubing string completions,
Hydro-12 String Hydraulic allowing isolation between two flow
Set Packer paths in the same wellbore. Suitable for
selective production or injection.
Hydro-12
Packer Families
Mechanical Packers
Model Full Name Description / Key Features
Omegamatic,
Storm Pkr & Omegamatic Mechanical Standard mechanical set packer; set by
Omegamatic Packer tubing manipulation (slack off or
Omegamatic LS tension).
Storm Pkr Storm Mechanical Packer Rugged mechanical packer, designed
for challenging conditions or well testing.
SOT -1
Omegamatic Locking-type mechanical packer for high
LS Omegamatic Lock-Set hold-force applications and repeated
setting.
Single-Trip Test Tool – Mechanical test packer used for
SOT-1 Type 1 formation testing, allows setting and
testing in a single trip.
Packer accessories
Mill-out extensions
Seal assemblies: Locator, Anchor, Snap-Latch
Expansion Joints
Millout Extension
Usually installed below the Packer to provide the required
length and ID to accommodate the milling tool
The ID must be greater than the ID of the packer to be able
to furnish an adequate shoulder for retrieving the packer
after the milling process is completed
Seal Assemblies
• Locator Type
• Anchor Latch
– Snap-In/Rotate-Out
• Snap Latch
– Snap-In/Snap-Out
Locator Type Seal Assemblies
Allows Tubing Movement Within a
Seal Bore Packer
Allows Connect - Disconnect-
Reconnect Utility
Used in High Pressure – High
Temperature Applications
Used in Multi-Zone Completions
Load Case - Requires Tubing
Movement Analysis
Anchor Latch Seal Assemblies
Used to Anchor Tubing String to
Seal Bore Packer
Allows Connect - Disconnect-
Reconnect Utility
Used in Single Trip and/or Multi-
Zone Completions
Right Hand Rotation Required to
Disconnect
Load Case - Requires Stress
Analysis
Snap latch seal assembly
Used to provide positive indication
of proper seal location in seal bore
Allows Connect - Disconnect-
Reconnect Utility
Used in Single Trip and/or Multi-
Zone Completions
Overpull to release
Load Case - Requires Tubing
movement analysis
Little Upward tubing movement
Slips
Single slips (can be lost when retrieving)
Bi-directional slips
Wikers are pointing in both directions (cage-knock off)
Barrel Slips
Simplified design with many fewer parts
Dramatically improves load distribution into casing
Reduces casing stress
Improves load area by a factor of 5, allowing higher pressure higher loads
Reduces cost and inventory (part count from 16 to 1)
Rationalization (interchangeable)
Key Technologies and Challenges
Barrel Slips
Slips / Casing Interaction
Slips Marks
inside Casing
Barrel Slips
FEA of Casing Stress
due to Slips
Qualification / Strain Gage / Casing Analysis
XMP/XHP
Barrel Slip
Pressure below element: Lower Barrel Slip
250000
Onset of casing
yield
200000
FEA
Stress (psi.)
150000
Estimated
Experimental Casing failure
100000
50000
0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000
Pressure (psi.)
Failure Analysis – Destructive testing
Elements
Nitrile
Low temperature and low pressure, 40oF- 275oF
Multi-piece and one-piece
HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile)
Moderate temperature or moderate pressure, 40oF-350oF
Add anti-extrusion device
Aflas
High temperature 75oF-45oF
Severe service
Element
Stacked fold back element-HNBR (90-80-90 DURO)
What does it mean?
Durometer describes the hardness. The upper and lower
element is harder than the middle.
The End
Criteria Swell Packer Mechanical/Hydraulic Packer
Activation Mechanism Self-activates by swelling upon contact Activated by mechanical force or hydraulic
with water or oil pressure
Deployment Time Slow (takes hours to days to fully swell) Fast, activated immediately once in
position
Reliability High in stable environments, fewer failure High, but depends on
points mechanical/hydraulic integrity
Control Capability Cannot be controlled once swelling begins Activation pressure and timing can be
precisely controlled
Reusability Not reusable (one-time use only) Some types can be reset or reactivated
Suitability for Horizontal Wells Very suitable – no need for force May be challenging due to mechanical or
transmission mechanisms hydraulic limitations
Operational Complexity Simple – no surface control equipment More complex – requires control systems
needed and monitoring
Cost Typically lower due to fewer components Generally higher due to complex control
mechanisms