How to Choose Bridge Plug

Bridge plugs are specialty plugging devices that can be set as temporary isolation tools to be retrieved (retrievable) later or installed as permanent plugging and isolation tools (Drillable).

They can be run on a wireline or pipes designed to be set in either casing or tubing. Also, models are available that are set in the casing but can be run through the tubing string.

Bridge Plug Applications

A bridge plug is used when:

• One or more perforated (or weak) zones must be protected under the treated zone.
• The distance between the treated zone and the bottom of the well is too long.
• Multiple zones and selective single zone treating and testing operations include acidizing, hydraulic fracturing, casing cementing, and testing.
• Well Abandonment.
• Remedial Cement Jobs.

When a retrievable bridge plug is used, it is covered with sand before the slurry is pumped. This way, it is protected, and the excess cement in the casing can be drilled out without damaging it.

Specifications

• Ps are selected depending on the following items:
• Casing size, grade & weight ( 9 5/8″, 7″, …..) that will be set on.
• Max Tool OD.
• Temperature rating.
• Pressure rating.

Bridge Plug Categories & Types

There are two main categories of bridge plugs according to their applications:

• Drillable Type
• Retrievable Type

Also, we can categorize them according to their setting mechanisms:

• Wireline set type
• Mechanical set type

Drillable Type

Drillable plugs are typically used to isolate the casing below the zone to be treated. They are of similar in design to the Cement Retainer, and they can be set on a wireline or a drill pipe. These plugs do not allow flow through the tool.

Retrievable Type

Retrievable bridge plugs are efficiently run and operated tools with the same function as the drillable type. They are generally run in one trip (Tripping pipe) with the Retrievable Packers and retrieved later after the cement is drilled out. Most operators will spot frac sand or acid-soluble calcium carbonate on top of the retrievable plug before doing the cement squeeze job to prevent cement from settling over the top of the retrievable bridge plug.

Thru Tubing Bridge Plug

The thru-tubing bridge plug (TTBP) provides a means of sealing off a certain zone (lower) without the need to retrieve tubing or killing (driller’s method – Wait & weight method) the upper producing zones. This saves time and cost, and there will be no need for a rig. It seals off the well with a high-expansion inflatable rubber segment that can pass through the completion tubing and seal off in the casing below.

The bridge plug is set hydraulically so it can be run on coiled tubing or electric wireline (utilizing the thru-tubing electric wireline setting tool). The inflatable rubber can be set in most ID’s including blank pipe, perforations, slotted casing liners, sand screens, and open holes. It may also be used for permanent lower zone shutoffs or permanent well abandonments.

Other Types In The Market

Iron Bridge Plugs

Iron bridge plugs are designed for use in applications where high pressure, temperature and erosive conditions are present. These plugs feature a robust design and can be set using either conventional coiled tubing or a wireline setting tool. The plug has an internal bypass valve that allows fluid to flow through the plug when needed, while preventing any unwanted leaks or seepage. The internal bypass valve also allows for debris wash-out during retrieval, ensuring the integrity of the plug when it is set.

Composite Bridge Plugs

Composite bridge plugs are designed for applications where extreme temperatures and pressures are present, but they can also be used in low-pressure environments. This type of bridge plug is highly reliable and is typically used in well completions where the casing must be protected from damage caused by downhole fluids. Composite bridge plugs feature an integrated packing element, which creates a seal between the plug body and the surrounding casing or tubing.

WR Bridge Plugs

WR bridge plugs are designed for applications where high temperatures and pressures are present. They feature an innovative design that allows them to be retrieved quickly and easily without any additional tools or equipment. The plug consists of an upper slips, a plug mandrel, a packing element, and lower slips. When deployed, the upper slips expand against the wall of the casing or tubing while the lower slips grip it firmly. During retrieval, these components work together to ensure that the plug remains in place until it is removed.

BOY Bridge Plugs

BOY bridge plugs are designed for use in applications where extreme pressures and temperatures are present. These plugs feature a robust design that allows them to be set using either conventional coiled tubing or a wireline setting tool. The plug has an internal bypass valve that allows fluid to flow through the plug when needed, while preventing any unwanted leaks or seepage. It also features an integrated packing element, which creates a seal between the plug body and the surrounding casing or tubing.

The range of bridge plugs manufactured by the Vigor team includes cast iron bridge plugs, composite bridge plugs, dissolvable bridge plugs and Wireline Set Bridge Plugs (Retrievable). All bridge plugs can be customized according to customer needs to meet the complex environment of the construction site. If you are interested in Vigor's bridge plug series products, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us to get the best quality products and services.

For more information, you can write to our mailbox info@vigorpetroleum.com & marketing@vigordrilling.com