Applications of Cement Retainers and Bridge Plugs in the Oil & Gas Industry

The reliance on renewable sources is increasing in recent times. However, the demand for oil and gas is still on the rise. To ensure the safe completion of different tasks, the oil and gas industry requires several servicing tools. No doubt, sand screens are the most crucial tools used in the sector. However, besides the control screens, the cement retainers and bridge plugs are also vital.

In this blog, you will explore the applications of cement retainers and bridge plugs in the oil and gas industry. Let’s dive in!

Cement Retainer

A cement retainer is an inflatable service tool that oil and gas companies use for remedial cementing operations. It sets in any casing type securely. The cement retainer helps in squeezing off the unwanted gas channels or production between the casing and the open hole. It allows the pumping of cement and other fluids through the tool.

Applications of Cement Retainer

  • Cement Squeeze

The cement retainers act as squeeze tools that isolate the wellhead and casing during the application of high pressure downhole. The retainer prevents backflow when there is no chance of cement dehydration. It also proves to be useful when a high negative differential pressure is likely to disturb the cement cake.

When multiple zones are cemented, the retainer allows isolating the lower perforations and other zones. As a result, squeezing can be done without having to wait for the slurry to set. 

  • Circulating Squeeze

For circulating squeeze, the cement retainers are a preferred option compared to the packers. Usually, acid or water is used as preliminary fluid to achieve circulation. With the use of a wash fluid, the interval is circulated. Then the cement slurry is pumped and displaced. 

The volume of slurry essential for circulating squeeze is often unknown. That is why plenty of slurry is used. However, there is a chance that the cement slurry may enter the drill pipe, casing, or tubing during the process. As a result, the tubing or drill pipe may get stuck. To lower this risk, the use of cement retainers is increasing. It helps in effectively minimizing the exposure of drill pipe or tubing to cement slurry.

Bridge Plugs

Bridge plugs are special plugging devices that help in isolating the lower part of the wellbore. These tools can be either retrievable or permanent. The retrievable bridge plugs ensure temporary isolation of the lower wellbore from the upper zone during a specific treatment. On the other hand, the permanent bridge plugs permanently seal the lower wellbore from production. 

Applications of Bridge Plugs

The bridge plugs find use in the oil and gas industry when:

  • The distance between the well’s bottom and the treated zone is too long.
  • One or more weak zones need to be protected in the treated zone.
  • Remedial cement jobs.

Conclusion

Cement retainers and bridge plugs are indeed essential for the oil and gas industry. Are you looking for reliable well completion accessories? If yes, SAZ Oilfield Services can offer you excellent products and services. From liner hanger to sand control screen, they provide a wide range of products at competitive prices.

Blog Source: https://globaloilfieldsupplies.wordpress.com/2023/07/24/applications-of-cement-retainers-and-bridge-plugs-in-the-oil-gas-industry/

 

Location: United States

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