Ballycatter Mech-2 Double Grip Mechanical Packer

Available sizes: 5”, 5 1/2”, 6 5/8”, 7”, 9 5/8”, and 10 3/4”

The Ballycatter Mech-2 is a retrievable, compression-set double-grip mechanical packer designed for applications where pressure differentials from below are anticipated, such as combined stimulation and production operations. Featuring opposing slips above and below the packing element, the Mech-2 ensures secure bi-directional anchoring within the casing under varying well conditions.

The tool incorporates a built-in hydraulic hold-down system located beneath the face-seal bypass valve, enabling it to resist upward forces during stimulation treatments. A unique “Differential Lock” mechanism utilizes pressure from below the packer to actuate a balance sleeve, generating additional downward force that maintains bypass valve integrity and ensures a reliable seal.

The Mech-2 is mechanically set using a long-stroke mandrel and a J-slot mechanism. Once positioned, right-hand rotation and applied set-down weight close the bypass valve, engage both slip sets, and compress the sealing elements. The formation below the packer is then fully isolated and accessible only through the tubing. To retrieve, the tubing is raised the full packer length, automatically re-engaging the J-slot and reopening the bypass for pressure equalization and circulation.

With its dual-grip design, hydraulic hold-down, and controlled setting and release process, the Mech-2 offers a robust and dependable solution for demanding applications requiring secure annular isolation and enhanced downhole stability.

Ballycatter HP-5 Production Packer

Available sizes: 5 1/2”, 6 5/8”, 7”, 7 5/8”, and 9 5/8”

The Ballycatter HP-5 is a hydraulically set, mechanically held, pressure-balanced production packer engineered for deep, high-pressure oil and gas applications. Designed to withstand bi-directional pressure differentials, it performs reliably in demanding environments such as deviated wells, stacked completions, and alternate zone installations. Its internal pressure balance system offsets downhole pressure fluctuations and reversals, maintaining integrity in the set position.

The HP-5 features upper and lower mechanical slips for secure engagement with casing under all well conditions, and its packing element system delivers a robust, pressure-enhanced seal. A unique body lock mechanism prevents pre-setting during deployment, keeping all components rigidly locked as a single unit while running in hole. This makes the HP-5 particularly effective in coiled tubing completions and high-angle installations.

The packer is released via a straight pull, with field-adjustable shear pins that are unaffected by differential pressure—allowing for flexible, operator-controlled release without tool disassembly.

Compatible with a wide range of packer accessories, the HP-5 combines reliability, operational control, and downhole adaptability in a single robust solution for production and injection applications.

Setting Mechanism

The Ballycatter WC-HP-2 Isolation Packer is hydraulically set, meaning it is activated using tubing pressure rather than mechanical manipulation. During deployment, the packer is run into the wellbore as part of a stacked packer system, positioned above another hydraulic retrievable packer.

Once in place, hydraulic pressure is applied through the tubing, which compresses the packing element system, forcing it outward against the casing wall. Simultaneously, the slips engage to anchor the packer in position, ensuring a secure, pressure-tight seal within the isolation zone. The hydraulic setting eliminates the need for tubing rotation, making it particularly effective for deviated wells or conditions where mechanical manipulation is restricted.

Once set, the packer remains mechanically locked in place, independent of trapped hydraulic pressure. This design ensures that differential pressures, wellbore fluid movement, or thermal expansion and contraction do not compromise the seal, maintaining long-term zonal isolation. The packer can be used for treatment, injection, or production operations, providing a stable isolation barrier between zones for efficient fluid control and optimized reservoir management.

Retrieval Mechanism

The WC-HP-2 Isolation Packer is retrieved using a straight-pull shear release system, which allows for efficient and controlled removal without requiring tubing rotation.

When an upward force is applied to the tubing, the shear-release pins disengage, allowing the packing elements to relax and the slips to retract. This mechanical release mechanism ensures that retrieval forces remain unaffected by differential pressure, providing operators with a predictable and reliable method for packer removal.

For added flexibility, the shear-release force can be adjusted before running the packer to accommodate different well conditions.

The compact, debris-resistant design of the packer facilitates smooth retrieval, even in doglegged or deviated wells, reducing the risk of tool sticking.

By providing a simple, efficient release mechanism, the WC-HP-2 minimizes rig time and operational costs, making it a practical and cost-effective solution for multiple-zone completions and casing isolation applications.