An Introduction to the TechTAC® Slimline® Tubing Anchor Catcher

An illustration comparing the gas flow around a standard B2 anchor and the Slimline TAC

In this 90-second video, learn how the unique and patented design of the Slimline® Tubing Anchor Catcher allows sediment and formation gas to flow around the anchor instead of creating a choke, as is common with a standard B2-style anchor. In turn, the Slimline® helps mitigate the risk of downhole challenges like scale formation and rod pump gas locking.

In wells with sucker-rod pumps, tubing anchor catchers, or TACs, can stabilize the production string. That stability creates higher pump efficiency and minimizes wear on rods, tubing, casing and the rod pump.

However, in addition to the benefits, standard B2-style TACs, along with other traditional anchor designs, are also susceptible to several common problems that can hinder production.

Because the annular area between the TAC and well casing is so small, sediment and scale can bridge-off on top of the anchor and cement it in place, often resulting in an expensive fishing job. At the same time, the TAC essentially acts as a choke, trapping formation gas below the anchor, leading to a gas locked rod pump.

TechTAC® Slimline® Tubing Anchor Catchers Benefit from a Unique Design

In contrast, the design of the TechTAC® Slimline® Tubing Anchor Catcher creates a reduced OD, which in turn provides up to 245% more flow-by area between the anchor and the casing ID.

According to an independent CFD study, that increased flow-by area means the Slimline® creates far less pressure drop, turbulence and turbidity than a standard B2 anchor.

A CFD analysis of two tubing anchor catchers

That free flow of fluid helps mitigate the frequency and impact of stuck anchors and gas locking, which in turn can help operators significantly reduce costs and increase production.

A senior completion foreman with a U.S.-based oil and gas company described the benefits this way: “We have one well that had to be pulled every 3 months due to scale. After installing a Slimline TAC, we didn’t need to pull it for 2 years.”

To learn more about the TechTAC® Slimline® TAC, or to get a quote, contact the TechTAC® team today!

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