Brett Fox, Weatherford Permian
Emmanuel Ewusie Chevron Corporation
With the data collected over many years, we can show how we have improved the gas lift valve tear down process, and how that data collected from this process has increased longevity of wells in each, individual area. While following the API Standards of gas lift valve expectancies, both in initial installs as well as reporting once valves are pulled, data is paramount. The ability to provide extensive data, that tracks trends across formations, mandrel types, valve types, and a myriad of other parameters better enables the operator to make the best choices going forward in their wells. This has shown better production from wells that were utilizing the “standard quo”. In this presentation, the aim is to show how more data can be prudent in making better choices for the lifetime of the well.
We have added and improved paperwork for when the equipment is returned from the field so that our technicians can document the equipment, and anything deemed noteworthy. The report, itself, has been greatly improved and mainly focuses on the issues with the system. Long ago, we started tracking extensive data alongside the report. This data can and has provided useful information when making decisions and guides improvements for us and our customers.
The data from the tear down is placed into a spread sheet for both our and the customers’ records. We record causes of leaks, equipment torn down, equipment pass/leak rate, etc. Using this data, we can track trends and see patterns that improve equipment and well performance. Several trends and discussions have already come from this data. We have used this data to address certain issues faced in very specific formations that allow us to make improvements and provide guidance to our customers for further installations.
With the continuation of further data gathering in gas lift tear down processes, the production should follow trend in gaining. As for the methods of gas lift, that data set is ever changing; however, we challenge that the more data ascertained, the better the well can produce. As time moves forward so shall we.