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.

Ballycatter HP-3 High Angle Packer

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

The Ballycatter HP-3 is a hydraulic-set packer engineered for high-angle and deviated well applications, where conventional mechanical or wireline-set tools are not feasible. This packer is particularly suited for single or multi-zone completions, offering flexible deployment in complex well trajectories.

Unlike mechanical systems, the HP-3 requires no tubing movement to set. This enables full well control throughout the operation, as the tubing can be landed and the wellhead installed prior to circulating or displacing fluids.

Key Features:

• Reliable Setting Mechanism: Utilizes dual balanced pistons—one actuates downward to anchor the bi-directional slips, while the other moves upward to compress a three-element packing system. This simultaneous action ensures a secure set and pack-off.

• Three-Element Seal: The packing system uses dual-durometer rubber elements to ensure long-term sealing integrity across a range of downhole conditions.

• Slips & Housing: One-piece, bi-directional slips are housed in a shear-pinned chamber, protected by a full-diameter guide to prevent damage during deployment.

• Release Options: Features a dual-method release system:

• Straight pull via shearing of pre-set screws.

• Right-hand rotation (approx. 8 turns), followed by straight pull.

• Equalization & Retrieval: Built-in equalizing valve opens automatically during release to balance pressures and enable safe retrieval. A large-diameter bypass within the mandrel allows fluid to flow during retrieval, reducing swab effects on the packing elements.

The HP-3 is engineered for reliability, operational flexibility, and full well control—making it a practical choice for complex wellbore geometries.

Ballycatter Mech-1 Single Grip Mechanical Packer

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

The Ballycatter Mech-1 is a retrievable, compression-set mechanical packer designed for low-pressure production, casing integrity testing, and well intervention operations. Built with a long-stroke mandrel and a large bypass area, it allows unrestricted fluid circulation while running in hole. The bypass is controlled by a face-seal valve that automatically closes during setting, fully isolating the annulus once the packer is engaged.

Setting is achieved via a mechanical J-slot system using standard right-hand (or optional left-hand) rotation. Once the tool is positioned, applying set-down weight activates the slips and compresses the packing elements, sealing off the formation below. Retrieval is straightforward—lifting the tubing string engages the J-slot and reopens the bypass valve for safe circulation and recovery.

The Mech-1 features a rocker-type slip design for positive casing engagement and can be repositioned if required. Its straightforward operation, reliable sealing, and retrievability make it a practical solution for conventional production completions, casing leak diagnostics, and test operations where hydraulic setting is not required.

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.