Unity Launches Digital Barrier Verification System

We’re pleased to introduce a new digital Barrier Verification System (BVS) which will be used by our teams to enhance operational safety and efficiency during integrity, intervention and decommissioning operations. Deployed by our Surface Intervention System (SIS), the BVS, along with our V3 Bridge Plug, allows us to set and validate two near-surface well barriers when we need to carry out critical work at the wellhead, such as lower master valve repairs or tree change-outs.

Track Record: The BVS has been developed by one of our industry partners and has already built a great track record in the field. We’ve just completed an operator-led systems integration test and our combined technology is now being prepared for its first deployment.

Efficiency and Reliability: Our compact SIS will set two IX Bridge Plugs as a dual well barrier up to depths of around 100 ft. The BVS module is connected to the underside of the upper plug and its slim design allows it to be run and set with the plug using standard setting tools. Once deployed, pressure and temperature sensors continuously monitor the integrity of the isolated zone allowing us to confirm that the upper plug has been set successfully.

Short and Long-Term Monitoring: Downhole data is wirelessly transmitted to a non-intrusive (magnetically mounted) surface receiver at the wellhead, which interfaces with a surface read out panel and laptop located in a safe area. Both live and historical data can be monitored during operations to capture any subtle trends over time, de-risking operations. For long term monitoring, alerts can be set for specified data thresholds. The BVS is rated to 10,000 psi. and 150 °C and uses a lithium-ion battery with a lifespan of up to five years.

Barrier verification technology enhances Unity’s full-service capability, allowing an even greater scope of offline, rigless intervention activities to be performed efficiently and cost effectively.