Page 123 - Well Control for Completions and Interventions
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Completion Equipment 115
Figure 3.22 Hydraulic set, pull to release retrievable production packer.
with a straight pull (tension) on the tubing. This simple recovery mecha-
nism makes them unsuitable for some completions. For instance, pump-
ing cold fluid down the tubing during a scale inhibitor squeeze would
risk unseating the packer, because thermal contraction and ballooning
would significantly increase string tension. Similarly, a bullhead well kill
could also result in a premature release of the packer. The consequences
of such an event need to be properly considered, although in the case of
a well kill, it might actually be advantageous. Potential difficulties aside,
the ease with which retrievable packers can be pulled means that work-
over operations are very much simplified. They are a popular choice for
wells where frequent workovers are required; ESP completions are a good
example (Fig. 3.22).
3.10.3 Permanent retrievable packers
With the introduction of intelligent completions, the need to feed
hydraulic, electrical, and fiber optic lines through packers has become
