Geothermal Packer for Servicing Wing (Side) Valves on Geothermal Wellheads

Abstract

Tri-State's 3 inch Geothermal Packer developed as a result of the technology obtained in the development of our larger Geothermal Packers. The purpose of this tool is to service side valves in a quick, economical and safe manner. Since the well is not shut in, there is not an interruption in flow of steam or hot water to the power plant. The two basic operations that can be performed by using the 3 inch Geothermal Packer are: removing and replacing defective wing valves and repositioning a wing valve to get clearance that enable the installation of insulation jackets on wellhead. The 3 inch Geothermal Packer it light weight and portable. It can easily be transported by one man, however, we recommend that at least two people be on hand to perform a valve change because of the need to physically handle the changing or repositioning o f the wing valves. A typical valve change can be done in less than an hour. The 3 inch Geothermal packer consist of the packer, a lubricator and a unique jacking system. The 3 inch Geothermal packer is completely mechanical in nature and does not extend into or thru the wellhead bore.