The annealed steel and elastomer ZX element is actuated by applying set-down weight to the tieback extension through the setting dogs on the liner running tool. This force drives the ZX seal up a ramp, causing it to expand and conform to the casing’s inside diameter (ID). The element’s external ribs seal off any extrusion gap, trapping the setting force and preventing elastomer flow. A body-lock ring system incorporated in the ZX seal holds a permanent set in the seal after it is actuated. The ZXP-N liner top packer is typically run as an integral component of the primary liner hookup and is compression-set using a packer-setting dog sub or a hydraulic pusher tool.

Advantages include:

• Expanding metal seal element with a bonded nitrile (HNBR) elastomeric cover ensures seal integrity at moderate temperatures
• Bonded ZX seal prevents swab-off and allows for higher circulation rates