Do you know the way to maximize the performance of unconventional wells? It is not just a game of pressure; it is much more than that, where it requires good control, precision, and the execution of the right technology at every phase of MPD Drilling. Plug and Perf methodologies are the proven strategies to ensure seamless completion at every stage. However, what if there is high pressure, complex formation, and longer laterals? Is a traditional frac plug enough for the same?
This guide will tell you how frac plugs work in real life, and also will make you aware of how they can go with modern and advanced smart technologies and systems, from wellbore strengthening to Managed Pressure Drilling, and Fluid Monitoring Systems. Let’s take you further so that you will be able to install an integrated system with fewer risks, more efficiency, and better delivery.
Frac Plug is one of the time-bound downhole devices that is used to isolate the zones inside a wellbore during the process of hydraulic fracturing. With this activity, you will allow each section to stimulate in a separate box, while maximizing the contact of the reservoir for higher productivity.
● Slips: It is designed to lock the plug mechanically within the casing of the well.
● Sealing Elements: The Formation of elastomer is considered to make the seals with tight pressure.
● Body: It is made from a composition of metal and dissolvable materials.
● Mandrel: This is a kind of support for the central structure.
All the above components allow frac plugs to remain in place or to dissolve depending on their designs.
Plug and Perf approach is one of those technologies that can adapt to a wide range of well specifications. And can enable targeted hydraulic fracturing in a well-controlled and efficient manner. Here you will dive into the breakdown of how they process.
The initial step is to deploy a frac plug inside a well, which is done with the help of wireline or coiled tubing. With this, it is about making an efficient deployment so that the plug can go to the precise depth within the casing.
It is about mechanically setting a plug in a desired interval. Where the anchoring slips will make a strong grip at the casing wall and seal the mechanism all around at the lower of the wellbore.
For the secured plug, shaped charges are engineered just at the top and create a straight path for the reservoirs. All this is a zone that is to be fractured further.
Next is about pumping a high-pressure fracturing fluid into the tiny holes inside the casing. This is done to break the rock in the surrounding space and give an easy and smooth flow to both oil and gas.
In the next stage, a new plug is integrated just above the previous one, and further steps are to repeat the same until the complete lateral is processed.
After the successful processing at all the stages, the plug will be milled out through the mechanical processing. This dissolution comes with no need to go through the clean-out procedure.
Selecting the perfect set of frac plugs requires in-depth consideration of the conditions, budget, operational priorities, and other specifications of the well. Here is an overview that will help you to make the right selection as per the system you are running.
PLUG TYPE | MATERIAL | MILL-OUT REQUIRED | BEST FOR |
COMPOSITE | Resin + Fiber | Yes | Standard completions with moderate temps |
CAST IRON | Metal | Yes | High-pressure, high-temperature wells |
DISSOLVABLE | Magnesium Alloys | No | Time-sensitive or mill-limited operations |
It is a little difficult to place plugs properly inside a layer of unstable rocks and in a zone that is pressure-sensitive. However, a wellbore strengthening is something that comes into play and makes everything so smooth. And with the execution of special techniques, it can be more seamless, which involves sealing a material and strengthening fluids.
● The proper placement of a plug ensures that a fluid does not leak out into the weaker formations.
● Frac plugs are capable of sharing a stable space when pressure is applied during fracturing.
●The plague works well and safely, even though it is high pressure, and ensures no damage throughout the MPD Drilling process.
In simple words, strengthening a wellbore is helpful to ensure that the frac plug will stay exactly in the right place and make the procedure go correctly. Especially when it is aged, Low-tolerance, and any cracked formation.
Let’s help you with a clear and final understanding of the same, so that you will rethink and refine your traditional working of Plug & Perf Frac Plugs in Hydraulic Fracturing. So, it is something that can lift heavy and multiple stages to process through the completion. However, integrating tools like wellbore strengthening, real-time fluid monitoring systems, and MPD can provide a safe, reliable, and faster completion that you have not seen before. If you are looking for a service provider who can take you to the next innovative step, then Vertech is the best for the same. As it can match the solution to your budget.
Are you ready to upgrade your plug and perf procedure? Contact Vertech and discover the high-performance solutions for the future.
What is the use of a fluid monitoring system in hydraulic fracturing?
A fluid monitoring system is a way to get real-time data for the properties of the liquid, such as viscosity, flow rate, and pressure. This is helpful for the team of operators to ensure a safer, faster, and more productive stimulation.
How are MPD drilling systems capable of improving the safety in complex wellbores?
MPD Drilling means a managed pressure drilling that improves control on annual pressure and minimizes damage during the procedure. Also, this reduces the risk of a liquid getting kicked into the sensitive zones.
How does MPD Drilling work well with Plug and Perf Operations?
The managed pressure drilling maintains a constant pressure at the bottom hole section. This is enough support to create well-balanced settings for the plugs and create effective and isolated zones during the process.
Are Frac Plugs compatible with high-pressure wells’ environment?
Yes, there are so many frac plugs, which are specially designed with cast iron and well-engineered for high-performance while processing under complex systems.
Let’s help you with a clear and final understanding of the same, so that you will rethink and refine your traditional working of Plug & Perf Frac Plugs in Hydraulic Fracturing. So, it is something that can lift heavy and multiple stages to process through the completion. However, integrating tools like wellbore strengthening, real-time fluid monitoring systems, and MPD can provide a safe, reliable, and faster completion that you have not seen before. If you are looking for a service provider who can take you to the next innovative step, then Vertech is the best for the same. As it can match the solution to your budget.
Vertechs is committed to delivering innovative energy solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability. Our cutting-edge technologies and services are designed to meet the evolving needs of the energy industry. To learn more about how we can support your projects, please contact us, email us at engineering@vertechs.com, or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Read Our One More Blog(1): What Are the Components of a FRAC Plug? Explained Simply
Read Our One More Blog(2): Revolutionizing Fluid Monitoring Systems for Drilling Operations: How Vertechs Leads the Future
