Learn key differences between Back Pressure Valve (BPV) and Two-Way Check Valve (TWCV) so you can choose the right one for a particular operation.
Back Pressure Valve (BPV)
A Back Pressure Valve (BPV), also known as a tubing plug, typically functions as a one-way check valve and is placed in a specially machined profile within the tubing hanger or plug bushing. Its purpose is to block the passage of fluids and gases through the hanger while still permitting the injection of fluid into the tubing string. These valves are deployed in the well to facilitate the removal of the production tree, enable the initial connection of the Blowout Preventer (BOP) stack, support the installation of the tree during the nippling down of the BOP stack, and during heavy lifts over the wellhead.
Back Pressure Valve (BPV)
Two Way Check Valve (TWCV)
A two-way check valve serves as a back pressure valve, designed to provide a seal in both directions. It is employed for testing Blowout Preventers (BOPS) and the tree during the initial connection. This valve can be threaded and seated into the tubing hanger. Alternatively, it may be of a profile type and installed by wireline into a landing nipple with a matching profile.
With Two-way check valve, it limits circulating capability, so it is not normally used in live wells which possibly have a chance for circulation down the string. Additionally, it will not hold pressure at very low pressure since its mechanism inside a two-way check valve need to have pressure to push it to seal the pressure.
Two Way Check Valve (TWCV)
The table below show the comparison between Back Pressure Valve (BPV) and Two Way Check Valve (TWCV).
| Objectives | Back Pressure Valve (BPV) | Two Way Check Valve (TWCV) |
| Install before landing tubing hanger | Yes ✅ | No❌ |
| Install before removal of production tree | Yes ✅ | No❌ |
| Install before testing BOP | No❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Install before testing Xmas tree | No❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Well required circulation or injection | Yes ✅ | No❌ |
| Hold pressure both direction | No❌ | Yes ✅ |
| Hold pressure only one direction | Yes✅ | No❌ |
References
Cormack, D. (2007). An introduction to well control calculations for drilling operations. 1st ed. Texas: Springer.
Crumpton, H. (2010). Well Control for Completions and Interventions. 1st ed. Texas: Gulf Publishing.
Grace, R. (2003). Blowout and well control handbook [recurso electrónico]. 1st ed. Paises Bajos: Gulf Professional Pub.
