Slotted anti-extrusion ring assembly

Abstract

A sealing element is flanked by wedge-shaped extrusion ring assemblies. The extrusion rings are continuous for 360 degrees and are slotted from the outside dimension and alternatively from the inside dimension to allow the diameter to increase to the surround tubular or open hole. The extrusion rings climb a ramp on an adjacent pedestal ring on the way out to the borehole wall. Depending on the dimension of the gap to be spanned the extrusion ring slides a variable distance up the pedestal ring ramp. An optional anchor ring is initially forced up an opposite ramp of the pedestal ring. If the sealing gap is short the anchor ring can be eliminated. For larger gaps the anchor ring moves out far enough toward the borehole wall to contact the extrusion ring located on an opposing ramp of the pedestal ring so that reaction forces are directed to keep the anchor ring wedged in position for support of the extrusion ring assembly.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.