Sucker Rod Pump

(2025025) Autonomous Edge applications for Sucker Rod Pump Optimization and Case Study in Bakken Basin

Sucker rod pumps (SRPs) remain the leading artificial lift (AL) method worldwide, with technological advancements tracing back to the wave equation development in the 1960s. Leveraging edge-based technologies, a new workflow has been developed to enhance existing Pump-Off Controller (POC) capabilities. This workflow integrates machine learning (ML)-driven dynamometer card classification for real-time event detection with an advanced logic system that autonomously optimizes SRP operating setpoints.

(2025045) Achieving Pump Off Control and Remote Surveillance For Marginal Producers

Pump off controllers (POC’s) that produce dynamometer cards are and have been the preferred method of detecting pump off in rod pump applications. In addition to detecting pump off, these devices provide several leading indicators such as run time, cycles, peak and minimum loads, gearbox and rod stress, and a variety of other data points. In order to do this, a load cell, a position measuring sensor and other technology is needed, thus driving up the cost of the traditional POC, and making it harder for a marginal producer to justify the expense of this type of POC. 

(2025044) A New Wave Equation Formulation with A Focus On Deviated Well Applications Derived From Downhole Dynamometer Measured Data

Dynamic sucker rod sucker rod modeling in deviated wells has proven difficult. Wave equation solutions – when applied to measured surface cards - have generally produced dubious pump cards. Recently acquired measurements collected from deviated wells using downhole dynamometers have inspired a new wave equation formulation and a modern finite difference implementation. The new model produces pump cards which are generally consistent with data measured downhole. The new model has been implemented in a commercial rod pump controller. 

(2025043) Decision Making Criteria and Challenges in Reciprocating Rod Pump Ramp-Up

Reciprocating rod pumps (RRP) have globally shown that with longer strokes increased productivity and reduced operational costs can be achieved over that of a progressive cavity pump (PCP) in clean to moderate solids producing wells. This has also been extended to suggest that with the right equipment mean time to failure can be increased.

(2025041) Pressure Balanced Sucker Rod Pump with Engineered Hydrodynamic Valves

A sucker rod pump is an essential component for rod pumping, but it has been limited by use of machined componentry and a ball/seat valve design. Today’s deep, gassy-sluggy, foamy, solids ladened, horizontal wells commonly have high initial liquid rates that are beyond the rate capacity of sucker rod pumping, which can require use of higher operating expense ESP’s or gas lift methods. Improving the rate capacity and reliability of sucker rod pumping in such challenging environments would be highly beneficial for producers.

(2025039) A Review of Traditional Rod Rotator Performance and Field Trial Results of New Rod Rotator designed to Improve Well Productivity and Reduce Maintenance Costs

As the complexity of well profiles on rod pumped wells increases, traditional rod rotators experience more frequent failures due to the challenging conditions. The consequence is a decline in well productivity, often accompanied by a significant increase in well maintenance costs. This session will examine common rod rotator failures and root causes. It will introduce a new alternative rod rotator designed to improve field performance and reduce operating expenses, including a comprehensive review of field trial results during the last 30 months.

(2025037) Hidden Complexities of Rod Rotation: Understanding Torque Buildup in Sucker Rod Systems

Rod rotators are designed to distribute wear evenly around the circumference of sucker rods. However, in practice, rods, guides, and couplings frequently develop flat spots on one side, indicating uneven rotation. The industry has not adequately studied the implications of this condition on the entire pumping system. Instead, solutions have focused on implementing higher torque rotators or positive engagement mechanisms to force rod rotation.

(2025036) Fatigue-Enhancing Technology Expands the Operational Range of Sucker Rods and Reduces Lifting Costs

The fatigue performance of sucker rods is intrinsically tied to their manufacturing processes and the mechanical properties of various grades. One of the most transformative advancements introduced in the past decade is the application of shot peening, a process that has emerged as a cornerstone of performance enhancement in the sucker rod industry.

Annual Conference Info

NEXT CONFERENCE: APRIL 21-24, 2025