Disappearing plug
View Patent ↗A system allows for sequential treatment of sections of a zone. Access to each portion can be with a sliding sleeve that has a specific internal profile. Pump down plugs can be used that have a specific profile that will make a plug latch to a specific sleeve. Pressure on the plug when latched allows a sequential opening of sleeves while zones already affected that are below are isolated. The pump down plugs have a passage that is initially obstructed by a material that eventually disappears under anticipated well conditions. As a result, when all portions of a zone are handled a flow path is reestablished through the various latched plugs. The plugs can also be blown clear of a sliding sleeve after operating it and can feature a key that subsequently prevents rotation of the plug on its axis in the event is later needs milling out.
1. A plug assembly for downhole use, comprising:
a flexible body having a longitudinal axis and opposed ends and an outer surface defining a chamber therein, said chamber comprising a granular material that is responsive to a longitudinal compressive load applied to at least one of said ends, said granular material substantially redirecting said longitudinal compressive force toward said outer surface and away from an end opposite the end where said force was applied; and
at least one of said ends dissolve at least in part upon exposure to downhole conditions for a predetermined time;
a housing with a passage to retain said body in said passage, further comprising an adjustment member to apply a longitudinal compressive load on said body urging said outer surface into greater sealing contact with said passage.
2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein:
said granular material comprises at least one of sand, frac proppant and glass micro spheres.