Paper: Methods For Improved Utilization of Beam Pumping Units

In the past decade the number of secondary recovery projects has increased rapidly in the Permian Basin and surrounding area. Water injection is the most popular method of re-energizing reservoirs. As a result, demands on the artificial lift equipment have increased due to higher individual well productivity. In many instances larger equipment has been installed. Two major reasons for replacing beam equipment in the past have been torque limitations and displacement limitations. Torque limits are usually reached prematurely because the unit is being operated in the longest stroke. Displacement, limits are usually defined by an arbitrarily established maximum operating speed. As a result equipment is replaced when, with some modification, it could well have met the increased demands for a prolonged period. The slow, long-stroke pumping method is considered the best method for trouble-free operation of beam units. In the past, operators were able to employ this method because allowables were low and most fields were under primary recovery. As a result, lift equipment was not loaded. Now, with allowable factors up and secondary recovery projects responding, demands placed on lift equipment have increased significantly. Since producing wells are predominately equipped with beam units, ,any improvement in the loading efficiency of these units could result in substantial savings through delayed or unnecessary investment for larger units. One way to achieve this improvement is through the use of the fast, short-stroke pumping method, when applicable. Another way is by controlled overloading of existing equipment.