machined and configured internal bore. This internal bore, designed to accept a suitably sized mandrel with a matching external profile, functions as a guide for the mandrel as it is run down the inside of the tubing string using a wireline. The nipple normally provides two facilities:
- A facility will allow the mandrel to be latched within the nipple profile.
- A sealing capability for the mandrel within the bore of the nipple.
Therefore, the nipple must offer a landing/locking profile and a seal bore. The seal bore is generally located beneath the locking profile to avoid mechanical damage.
A variety of nipple/mandrel systems are available to offer the following capabilities:
- Isolation or plugging of the tubing string for well shut-in, workover, or for hydraulically setting packers.
- A ported device communicating between the tubing and the annulus.
- Emergency closure of the tubing or annular flow conduit by remote or direct control.
- Downhole regulation or throttling of the flow.
- Installation of downhole pressure and temperature recording gauges.
Two basic types of landing nipples are available: selective and nonselective.
Selective Landing Nipple System
There are three methods of obtaining selectivity in a landing nipple system:
Firstly, Selectivity is based on a variable internal profile.
Secondly, Selectivity is associated with the setting tool.
Thirdly, Selectivity is based on pre-spaced magnets.
Selective Internal Profile
In this system, it is crucial to match the internal profile of the nipple to a set of locating keys on a lock mandrel. Nipples are available in 5 to 7 selective positions and must be run as part of the completion string in the sequence denoted by the selective location keys. The importance of running the nipples sequentially and noting the depth of each nipple cannot be overstated, as it assists mandrel placement during subsequent work.
Setting Tool Selective Nipple
With this system, the setting tool, which includes its removable locking and sealing device, is designed with fixed external profiles. Thus, the setting tool locates the nipple, positions the lock mandrel, and seals in the appropriate nipple. Using this system of selectivity, an unlimited number of this type of landing nipples of the same size can be installed in the string.
Prespaced Magnet Selectivity
This type of nipple system usually comprises a lower section, which contains the locking profile and sealing section, and an upper section, where two pre-spaced magnet rings are located. For a mandrel to be inserted and locked into such a nipple, two magnets also replaced on the running tool must correspond with the location of the rings within the nipple. The mandrel is locked in position by a mechanical locking mechanism actuated by a small explosive charge detonated by the electric circuit created when the mandrel lands in the nipple. Up to six of these nipples, of the same size, can be run in the same string.
For most applications, selectivity is preferred based on variable profile or setting tool actuation.
The Landing Nipple stands as one of the most crucial innovations in the oil and gas industry, playing a vital role in extraction processes. Vigor, a leading manufacturer and producer of downhole drilling and completion tools, boasts a team of experienced technical engineers with extensive on-site expertise. We are committed to providing tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.
If you are interested in Vigor's comprehensive range of downhole drilling, well completion, and logging tools, do not hesitate to contact our professional engineering team. We are dedicated to delivering top-tier products and exceptional service, ensuring your projects are executed with precision and efficiency. Experience unparalleled reliability with Vigor-your trusted partner in the oil and gas industry.
For more information, you can write to our mailbox info@vigorpetroleum.com & mail@vigorpetroleum.com
