10 Years Pumping Below Kickoff Point

The contemporary rod pumping strategy for horizontal wells typically involves placing the pump at or above the Kickoff Point (KOP) to ensure the rod string and downhole pump operate in relatively low dogleg severity conditions. However, in certain types of reservoirs and well conditions, it may be beneficial to place the pump below the KOP. This paper presents a case study from Devon Energy’s Powder River Basin and Delaware Basin Assets, where over the past decade, more than 1200 pumps have been operated below the KOP in over 400 unique wells. The study examines the conditions, methodologies, and outcomes associated with this approach, highlighting its potential advantages, operational insights, and recommended best practices.