In the ever-evolving oil and gas industries, that pushes for greater operational efficiency, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and continuous innovations that exceed expectations. One of the most transformative innovations in wellbore operations is degradable plugs. These are designed to optimize the managed pressure drilling process with less environmental impact. In this blog, we will get a guide on how degradable plugs meet the diverse needs of oil fields. Also, it will address everything from efficiency to all the future potentials.
The Degradable tools are temporary and isolate certain wellbore sections during drilling, completion, and hydraulic fracturing operations. Unlike traditional plugs, these degradable frac plugs can be degraded over time after their complete function. Deep-well conditions like temperature, pressure, and the presence of specific fluids stimulate this degradation process.
These plugs are made from biodegradable materials like polymers, resins, and composites. Here comes the natural breakdown without harming the wellbore and its surrounding environment.
Degradable frac plugs are well-engineered for specific tasks, like sealing, zone isolations, and fluid migration prevention during well operations. After deployment in the wellbore, these plugs temporarily block the flow of gas or fluids so that operators can focus on other tasks like well cementing, fracturing, and production.
After this, the degradation process begins after it serves its purpose. However, under certain conditions, such as heat exposure, pressures, or corrosive fluids, plug material gradually becomes a byproduct, but this takes days, weeks, and even months, depending on the plug's design and the well's condition.
The innovative solutions of degradable plugs simplify complex processes with their advanced designs and functionality. Let’s look at the pillars that reshape the functionality and industry. So, the benefits of these plugs come into play, as you can see below.
Improving operational efficiency is one of the most significant benefits of degradable plugs. Traditional plugs require multiple steps, which can be time-consuming, challenging, and costly. However, after the launch of degradable plugs, industries can eliminate this and streamline operations.
Indeed, the upfront cost of degradable plugs is often higher than traditional ones. However, it is a way to achieve long-term cost savings. These savings come from labor cost reduction, avoiding operations of expensive retrieval, and minimizing the need for additional equipment.
The oil and gas industries are under increasing scrutiny for their environmental impact in the trend of heightened environmental awareness. Degradable plugs naturally break down over time, leaving no waste or harmful residues. In contrast, traditional mechanics leave behind all the waste and require harmful chemicals for retrieval.
Degradable frac plugs have diverse applications in oilfield tasks and drilling process operations. Different types of frac plugs are designed for specific operations, Which contribute to different stages of the managed pressure drilling process. Let’s look at the stages where these plugs are utilized.
To control the flow of operated liquid or gas, It is essential to isolate the zones. As per isolation, plugs are frequently used during drilling and hydraulic fracturing.
It is necessary to optimize the fracturing process, and industries must isolate certain well sections. Degradable plugs are ideal for establishing temporary isolation.
After completion, degradable plugs are still useful to protect sections during cementing stages. Isolating at this time ensures that cement can be set properly.
Degradable plugs are also used to stimulate good operations temporarily. Where the practitioner needs to isolate the sections to be treated, this does not involve any need to post-remove the plug.
As you have read, degradable frac plugs provide an innovative, environment-friendly, and efficient alternative to traditional mechanics. These plugs play a central role in meeting economic and environmental goals.
Are you in favor of this incredible tool of the oil and gas industries? Or are you seeking the same? We are here to help you withstand all the industry challenges. You are just a step behind to reach out to us. Just tap Vertechs and request a quote for your product’s demand.
Read Our One More Blog(1): Benefits of Using Slim Hole Frac Plugs in Your Next Fracturing Operation
Read Our One More Blog(2): Transforming Drilling Operations: The Impact of Fluid Monitoring Systems on Drilling Fluid Usage
