Importance

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Abstract

A seal assembly for downhole use in a subterranean well comprises inner and outer concentric annular sealing elements adapted to seal between an inner mandrel and an outer housing. The sealing elements are mounted in concentric annular recesses defined in relatively axially movable seal carrier members. In a preferred form, a spring loaded mechanism is provided to bias the seal carriers axially towards each other, thereby exerting an axially compressive force on the sealing elements between them. The compressive force is sufficient to expand the sealing elements against the sealing surfaces of the mandrel and outer housing, whereby non-elastomeric sealing elements, or seal elements which have become effectively non-elastomeric, can be utilized. Releasable latches are provided for attachment of the seal assembly to the associated housing.

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First Claim