(2024032) Real Time Plunger Velocity to Detect Pump Off vs. Gas Interference: Field Data Examples

This paper proposes an approach to diagnose pump-off condition versus gas interference condition utilizing a patented overlay of real time plunger velocity on top of the real time downhole card via pump-off controller interface. Field results showing the impact of this methodology are presented.

METHODS, PROCEDURES, PROCESS
Traditionally, the industry only looks at the surface and downhole card to optimize and achieve better well control. This requires a series of experts, dynograph interpretation and optimization processes. Even with all of this, scenarios exist where a downhole condition is not identified properly or leaves questions to be answered. 
One of the major problems in SRP wells is that the well will shut down when the pump fillage goes below a certain predetermined (user set) value, which can either be attributed to gas interference or pump off condition. If the first scenario applies, the operator may have the option to pump through this condition and achieve more production and drawdown on the well without damaging the system. If the second, the well should be stopped immediately to avoid equipment damage and failures.
Unfortunately, knowing the difference between these two conditions is not always intuitive or obvious. Moreover, pump-off controllers certainly cannot tell the difference. This causes the operator to lose potential production and revenue and leads to today’s condition where too many wells are carrying thousands of feet of fluid over the pump and are not achieving effective drawdown or hitting their production target.

RESULTS, OBSERVATIONS, CONCLUSIONS
Field results show that gas interference can be distinguished from pump off, reducing unnecessary shut down and improving drawdown in SRP wells.

NOVELTY
The options available today for plunger velocity are only available through modeling software and are not real time. This does not afford the operator effective control and live decision-making capabilities. The proposed offering puts the decision and control capabilities back in the operator’s hands.