SYSTEM FOR SEALING AN ANNULAR SPACE IN A WELLBORE

摘要

A method is provided of applying an annular seal to a tubular element (7) for use in a wellbore (1). The method comprises the steps of: a) providing at least one flexible seal layer (20) at the wellbore site, each seal layer having a pair of opposite longitudinal edges movable relative to each other between an open position wherein the seal layer can be radially applied to the tubular element, and a closed position wherein the seal layer extends substantially around the tubular element, the seal layer being made material susceptible of swelling upon contact with a selected fluid; b) partially lowering the tubular element (7) into the wellbore (1); c) radially applying the seal layer (20) in the open position thereof to a portion of the tubular element extending above the wellbore; d) moving the seal layer (20) to the closed position thereof; and e) further lowering the tubular element (7) with the seal layer (20) applied thereto into the wellbore (1) until the seal layer is located at a selected location in the wellbore (1).