Apparatus and method for cleaning debris from wells

摘要

A system and method for restarting a downhole pump that has seized due to an accumulation of debris above the pump and around the pump intake. The system consists of a flexible annulus sealing element fitted on a joint of production tubing where the annulus seal can be activated by pumping fluid down the well annulus from surface. The tool includes tubing and check valve arrangements such that fluid from the well annulus above the flexible annulus sealing element can enter the production tubing immediately above the downhole pump and circulate debris back to surface as well as introduce fluid to the pump intake to mobilize debris accumulated at the pump intake.