Paper: Using Pump-Off Controllers (P.O.C.) To Their Fullest

Traditionally Pump Off Controllers (POC"s) have been used to monitor wells for fluid pound. However, signals generated by properly maintained quantitative POC systems can be utilized for a variety of monitoring and production optimization activities. Typically the POC's used in quantitative analysis consist of a load measurement sensor, a position sensor and a control box to collect data. In addition, in centralized systems, a communications device (i.e. radio transmitter) is used to communicate to a modem equipped computer workstation. This paper will discuss how data captured by POC systems can be utilized more extensively to manage field operations. Traditionally POC data, such as dynagraph cards, have been used to analyze for pump tillage, gas interference, and general artificial lift (A/L) performance by importing POC data into artificial lift analysis programs. However, properly calibrated POC's are being used to monitor fluid levels, minimize the occurrence of stuffing box leaks or flowline breaks due to excessive pressure, and monitoring paraffin buildup. In addition to load and position, data such as flowline pressures, vessel level in facilities, upstream and downstream pressures and rates on injection lines can be captured via the POC system. Submersible pump monitoring including amperage, flow rate and flowline pressures are also being monitored. The subject POC system was installed in 1989 to monitor 600 wellbores producing from the Clearfork formation. The initial concept was to control pump off to reduce failure frequency and operating costs. The system was designed to use polished rod load cells and inclinometer position sensors. Hardware and software upgrades continue to be implemented as needed. However, the concept of using the system solely for pump off control has evolved to utilizing the system as a Production Optimization Center (P.O.C.) that serves as a hub for production operations processes.