(18) ELECTRICAL SUBMERSIBLE PUMP PERFORMANCE IN THE PERMIAN (DELAWARE) BASIN UNCONVENTIONAL FORMATION
Achieving consistent, sustained run life with electrical submersible pumps in the unconventional play of the Permian Basin can be difficult due to a variety of harsh well conditions. More specifically, high free gas rates and abrasives contribute to the majority of well service call outs. Common operating practices are well established to some positive effect, such as running at lower frequencies to mitigate abrasive wear and loading motors appropriately for efficient operation. BOPCO operates several wells in the area and looked to further optimize ESP production in order to reduce operating expense and increase profitability. Working together with Summit ESP, a new set of operational standards for these unconventional wells was developed and initiated using a step-wise approach to analyzing individual well performance and operating parameters, then comparing results across the field as various processes and tools were implemented. In conjunction with the traditional settings, the team implemented a more robust sensor package including a discharge pressure gauge and tubing and casing transducers that are monitored by a highly trained ESP Well Management Team to assist in all troubleshooting. Further, new gas handling technologies have proven successful in improving up-time with fewer shutdowns. This dynamic combination has proven to be more efficient and profitable.