| 摘要 |
The inventive sealing assembly designed to be set by longitudinal compression is mechanically energized, and comprises an elastomeric sealing element and a flexible member in intimate contact with the sealing element, a flexible portion of the flexible member having an expanded and a retracted position, wherein the flexible member is able to forcibly expand the sealing element when the flexible portion of the flexible member is expanded, and further wherein the flexible member is able to forcibly retract the sealing element when the flexible portion of the flexible member is retracted. The flexible member preferably has a generally cylindrical shape and a plurality of longitudinal slots, and passes at least partially through the sealing element, such that the element covers both the outer and inner surface of the flexible member, as well as passing through the slots. The flexible section of the flexible member should also preferably have at least one outward axially bulging section which is in intimate contact with the sealing element, so that when the flexible member is compressed between the end surfaces, the bulging section flexes radially outwards. The sealing element should preferably comprise a single unified piece of elastomer. The element can use garter springs or backup plates to help insure that it sets properly. The element can also be made up of fused portions of elastomers having different durometers. A well tool and method which utilize the inventive device are also disclosed.
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