Saltel External Casing Packer

Cementing operations external casing packer based on Saltel Xpandable technology

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Rated up to 5,000 psi [34.5 MPa]

Rated up to 280 degF [138 degC]

Seal the annulus for cementing operations even in ovalized boreholes

External casing packers (ECPs) are robust expandable stainless steel devices designed to set at low pressures to achieve zonal isolation. They can be used for any stage cementing operation or to prevent fluid migration in the annulus, for example in applications with openhole stand-alone screen completions. Engineered using Saltel Xpandable expandable steel technology, these packers improve sealing performance as compared with conventional packers, especially in irregular boreholes.

Expandable steel external casing packers set at low pressures.

Cement with confidence above openhole stand-alone screen completions

The packer sleeve is expanded between the casing and borehole by applying pressure in the casing. This pressure is transmitted through the expansion port to the packer’s integral stainless steel sleeve. As the sleeve expands, it conforms to the shape of the wellbore. A patented thin layer of bonded elastomer ensures sealing in irregular boreholes. The expanded sleeve also serves to centralize the casing string. The packer is built on a one-piece mandrel by welding or crimping with no hidden connections. Both ends are fixed and protect the expandable sleeve while running in hole. The robust construction allows the packer to be rotated and worked through doglegs and tight spots; full casing characteristics are maintained.

Welded packer: The expansion port features a one-way valve system that traps fluid inside the expanded sleeve to increase the differential pressure rating.

Crimped packer: The expansion port features a valve system that permanently closes the port after the packer is set and a predetermined pressure is reached. This activation pressure can be modified by replacing an easily accessible shear pin.

In both versions of the packer, the expansion port valve also serves as a safety feature. If the packer is expanded in front of a severe washout, the valve closes, which prevents fluid loss.