Pinar Karpuz-Pickell and Levins Thompson
LUFKIN Don-Nan
Surface coatings are commonly used in many industries including oil and gas; with the aim of hardening the part surfaces to improve wear resistance without compromising the corrosion resistance -or even improve when applicable. Sucker rod pumps employ several parts with coated surfaces as well, including the pump barrels. Both standardized surface modifications and specialty applications for pump barrels are readily available in market for different well conditions, including extreme well solids and H2S and CO2 service. These service conditions can be detrimental for pump performance if the right coating is not used. In addition to service conditions, well treatment methods such as acidizing can also deteriorate the coating performance, causing pump failures. This study focuses on the structure of 6 different standardized and specialty coatings on sucker rod pump barrels and an experimental study on their degradation in acidic environments, while familiarizing the reader with the recommended service conditions.