In the quest to build a better mousetrap, several companies have introduced new technology designed to reduce the cost, reduce the material, and increase the efficiency of the overall plug and perf operation. While these designs have provided some increase in performance, they’ve introduced issues not seen with a traditional design.

Starting in 2008, the US daily oil production started to increase rapidly, averaging an increase of 657,000 bbls/day (almost 240 MMbbls per year) each year through 2019. This increase was done on the back of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracing.

Over the past 3 years I have published several articles about composite plugs and the plug & perf completion operation. I took the time to combine these posts, along with additional information, into an ebook that is available for download now.

Disposable setting tools have become a major player in the setting tool market. This article completes my Setting Up for Success series explaining the setting tool technologies used in horizontal completions.

One of the biggest challenges during a plug & perf completion is successfully drilling out the lateral. Proper use of fluid systems to efficiently drill out and clean the wellbore greatly reduces the risk. Understanding the fluid additives and the role they play will help when discussing the proper procedures needed.

Plug & Perf has become the most widely used completion used in North America. Understanding the technology and the issues that can arrive will help completion engineers choose the best product for their well.

Understanding the mechanics behind the issues that arise during a Plug & Perf operation can help when deciding which tool will reduce your risk.

Without a clear understanding of how a traditional frac plug works, it can be difficult to appreciate the recommendations for operation or what is happening in the well throughout the Plug & Perf operation.

Understanding the construction of the products available for your wellbore will help you to determine which product will outperform the others. The materials used to build a composite plug can have a major impact on the pump down, anchor & seal, and milling performance.

In the race to provide the shortest, lightest, and quickest to mill composite frac plugs, providers seem to forget the most important part: The Seal!

The performance of your composite plug setting tools can have a huge impact on your completion operation. Understanding how the tools work helps to recognize the importance of proper redress and operational procedures.

Understanding wireline setting tool operation, redress, and potential issues can have a big impact on the success of your operation.

The bit choice for milling plugs in 4.5" casing isn't as clear as it is in the 5.5" Size. Understanding the pros and cons of each choice (Roller Cone, Carbide Mill, and PDC Bit) will help to optimize your completion operation.

Some estimates have the number of frac stages pumped in North America in 2018 above one million. The pump down operation is a major part of a Plug & Perf Completion. Understanding the fluid dynamics and how it affects the plug assembly is a large part of selecting the right technology for your well.

Advanced toe valve technologies can take your completion to the next level. A basic understanding of how they work can help you to make an informed decision about the tools in your well.

Your toe valve choice can have a big impact on your completion . Consider these few factors when making your decision.

Rubicon Oilfield International introduces the RzrFRAC Composite Frac Plug. Learn how this new technology can change your plug & perf completion.