Paper: CASE STUDY OF PLUNGER LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN THE SAN JUAN BASIN

An analysis and economic evaluation of over 150 plunger installations in the San Juan Basin (SJB) has been made. The case study reviews performance and results of all installations, and clearly shows that plunger lift has significantly increased volumes and reserves. Best practices, screening criteria and design considerations are presented. Individual well results are presented in tabular form showing before and after rates. Economic analysis indicates plunger lift on these SJB wells is extremely attractive with average payout of installations in two months.