Current Issue
№7 July - August 2010
25.05.2009
Operators desire the ability to execute an activity within the planned time and budget, with minimum risk. Liner installations can challenge this desire when complex hole environments, equipment limitations, or undependable methods exist. Conventional liner hanger systems are well proven but become limited in functionality as hole conditions become more complex. Expandable liner hanger systems, albeit unique in concept with few exposed parts, are operationally primitive with inherent cementing risks. Baker Oil Tools recognized both the advantages and disadvantages of these two systems and developed multiple new technologies that exploit the benefits of each into a single integrated system called TORXS.
Using variable-diameter swage enables the TORXS running tool to expand the liner hanger before displacing cement. Expansion of the hanger component is easily controlled and does not reduce the system's annular flow area. Packer setting occurs after displacing cement and is not dependent on plug bump. The TORXS system is robust, has superior torsion limitations and uses balanced hydraulics so that the liner can be safely rotated and circulated down, without risk of premature activations. TORXS is proving to be one of the most practical options, with solutions for several downhole problems, in a single package.