- Release Mechanism
Depending on the RTTS design, you either pick up on the string (mechanical release) or apply hydraulic pressure to unseat the slips and packer elements.
Confirm the packer is released by observing a decrease in tension or a specific release “signature.” - Pull Out of Hole (POOH)
Slowly pull the tubing/packer assembly out of the well.
Monitor well pressures; maintain well control procedures in case of unexpected flow or pressure spikes. - Surface Handling
Once at surface, the packer may be covered in drilling mud, crude, or scale.
The rig crew will lay it down carefully, often rinsing or cleaning it to remove debris.
Inspect for any damage to slips, seals, or rubber elements.
Observations in this Video:
- Fluids and Debris
It appears there is fluid (oil mud are mixed) flowing around the wellhead area. This is common when pulling equipment out of a live or semi-live well if there’s some fluid return or wellbore fluid draining.
The black coating on the equipment indicates hydrocarbons or heavy drilling mud. - The Packer Assembly
The elongated assembly of the RTTS packer after it’s been pulled.
The chain hoists and the rig floor environment are typical for pulling heavy downhole tools. - Condition of the Packer
If the packer is heavily coated in debris, it suggests it was exposed to well fluids under pressure or that there was scale in the well.
Post-job, the packer would typically be cleaned and inspected to decide if it can be redressed (replace the rubber elements, slips, etc.) and used again.