Importance

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Abstract

A retrievable bridge plug apparatus has slip segments and packing elements which are extendable to outward positions. In a cased well, the slip segments grip the casing and prevent the longitudinal movement of the bridge plug. The packing elements contact the casing to provide a seal to isolate the well interval above the bridge plug from the well interval below the bridge plug. The bridge plug is retrieved from the well by equalizing pressure and then retracting the slip segments and packing elements. Pressure is equalized by pulling up on the retrieving tool, which couples to a fishing neck at the upper end of the bridge plug. Pulling up on the fishing neck opens a valve and exposes a flow path for fluid. The slip segments, and consequently the packing elements, are prevented from retracting during the equalization of pressure by a locking device. Then, the retrieving tool is set down to lower the fishing neck. Lowering the fishing neck releases the locking device. The retrieving tool is pulled up on again to retract the slip segments and the packing elements. By using separate and opposite manipulative motions to equalize pressure and retract the slip segments, control of the bridge plug is maintained during pressure equalization.

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First Claim