New packer technology for fast, but controlled swell rates
HOUSTON – TAM International has introduced a new swellable packer technology as part of their extensive swellable packer product line.
The TAM FastSwell technology utilizes a proprietary process that alters the geometric design of the elastomer to provide ultra-fast, but predictable and controlled swell rates for challenging downhole conditions currently unsuited for a swellable packer due to long swell times.
The technology can be customized to increase or decrease the swell rate by changing the configuration of the elastomer geometry, providing operators many options for applications where they currently cannot use a swellable packer. Both water-swell and oil-swell elastomers can utilize the new technology, which is now available for operator applications worldwide.
“This technology breakthrough is a major step forward in swellable packer technology and continues our standard of developing elastomer technology that performs in a highly predictable and reliable manner downhole,” said Ray Frisby, TAM’s Vice President of Technology.
TAM FastSwell technology does not rely on protective coatings to prevent premature swelling during the trip in the hole. Reliable prediction of swell times is designed into all the numerous compounds TAM has developed for various global well environment applications. This new technology dramatically enhances the performance envelope of TAM’s existing elastomer suite.
Testing has confirmed the TAM FastSwell design satisfies existing downhole packer differential ratings. These currently can reach up to 12,000 psi differential and downhole temperatures ranging from 70° to 575° F.
Extensive laboratory testing has been performed at downhole conditions and in actual well fluids to determine how the elastomers perform. As part of the TAM FastSwell service, customers can also provide anticipated well fluid samples in advance and TAM will perform well-specific lab testing to ensure the optimal elastomer and geometry is selected.
