Choosing between permanent and retrievable bridge plugs requires more than comparing the initial cost of each tool. Operators also need to consider how long isolation is required, whether future well access is necessary, how the plug will be deployed, and the labour and equipment required throughout the operation.
Neither option is universally more cost-effective. Understanding how permanent and retrievable bridge plugs differ can help determine which provides better overall value for your application. Below, we’ll determine which plug makes the most sense for your wellbore operation, and where you can get reliable permanent and retrievable bridge plugs from Avalon Research!
What Is the Difference Between Permanent and Retrievable Bridge Plugs?
Both bridge plug types create a mechanical barrier to isolate pressure and flow within a wellbore. The primary difference is what happens after isolation is no longer required.
A retrievable bridge plug provides temporary isolation and is designed to be recovered when the operation is complete. This makes retrievable systems suitable for interventions where operators need to restore access to the isolated section of the well.
A permanent bridge plug is intended to remain downhole and provide long-term isolation. Permanent plugs are commonly used for well abandonment and other applications where retrieving the barrier is unnecessary.
Whether you choose to use a permanent or retrievable bridge plug comes down to the long-term plans for your wellsite.
How Do Labour Requirements Compare?
A retrievable bridge plug requires both setting and eventual retrieval. This means operators need to account for the personnel and equipment required for another downhole operation. However, retrieval also provides an important advantage: the well can be accessed again without removing a permanent barrier.
Our Quinn Ultimate Packer Retrievable Bridge Plug is designed to simplify this process. QUP plugs can be set and pulled using conventional methods, including slickline, e-line, and coiled tubing. Once recovered, their straightforward design allows them to be rebuilt in the field using minimal tools and prepared for another run.
Permanent bridge plugs eliminate the need to retrieve the tool when permanent isolation is the objective. This can simplify the overall operation by avoiding an unnecessary future retrieval procedure.
Which Bridge Plug Is More Cost-Effective?
The most cost-effective option depends on the application.
For temporary isolation, a retrievable bridge plug can provide long-term value because the equipment can be recovered, serviced, and reused. Operators should consider the cost of retrieval alongside the value of restoring well access and potentially using the tool again.
While permanent bridge plugs can be installed in temporary isolation zones, they require expensive drilling equipment to remove and cannot be reused.
For permanent isolation, paying for retrievability may provide little operational benefit. A permanent bridge plug can establish the required barrier without the need to plan a subsequent operation to recover it.
The deployment method should also be included in the cost analysis. All of our bridge plugs from Avalon are compatible with conventional deployment methods like slickline, e-line, and coiled tubing, so you don’t need to incur the cost of replacing your current deployment equipment.
Where Do Miniature Permanent Bridge Plugs Fit?
Some wellbores require permanent isolation in areas where conventional bridge plug dimensions are too big. Avalon’s Miniature Permanent Bridge Plug (MPBP) features a small outer diameter, allowing the plug to be deployed inside coiled tubing to create a mechanical pressure barrier.
This can provide an alternative when operators need to isolate pressure within the coiled tubing itself. As with any bridge plug, pressure, temperature, dimensions, well fluids, and the intended operation should be considered before selecting a tool.
How Do You Choose Between Permanent and Retrievable Bridge Plugs?
A retrievable bridge plug is ideal when temporary isolation and future well access are your key priorities. However, if the barrier is intended to remain downhole and retrieval offers no operational advantage, a permanent bridge plug is the best option.
Operators should also evaluate:
- Required isolation duration
- Casing or tubing dimensions
- Differential pressure and temperature
- Sour-service requirements
- Setting and retrieval methods
- Future access requirements
- Labour and intervention requirements
- Potential for tool rebuilding and reuse
At Avalon Research, we design and manufacture permanent and retrievable bridge plugs in-house with a focus on simple, reliable downhole operation. Our team can also provide compatible setting equipment or work with customers using their existing deployment systems.
Whether you need a removable plug for temporary zone isolation or a permanent fix for well abandonment, we have the wireline tools you need to support your wellsite. Contact us today to place an order!