Artificial Lift

The effect of traditional chemical treatments at the pump intake can be minimized due to the fluid level, high GLR, and production packers, among other reasons. Using a slow-release polymer matrix is an effective chemical treatment that was installed in several wells in the Delaware basin with Conoco Phillips. The chemicals were encapsulated in the matrix ensuring maximum absorption and then slow dispersion, and the tool was run under the intake of rod pumps, and gas lift.

Slow strokes per minute, open pump clearances in a deep well have impacted the shape of the pump card and frequently results in the question: "Is my tubing unanchored?".  The Coefficient of Tubing Stretch, Kt, and the downhole pump dynamometer card can be used to help identify unanchored tubing.  The Unanchored Kt and Anchored Kt lines plotted on the left side of the pump card shape are the first step in resolving if tubing is anchored.

OBJECTIVES/SCOPE:

Design and analysis of sucker rod systems in deviated wells has challenged industry practitioners. Historical adaptations of the wave equation solution struggle with 3-dimensional wellbore trajectories and other system complexities. A unique finite element model, embodied in an easy-to-use software, simulates rod-dynamics in 3 dimensions. The model can predict or analyze motion of the rod string at any location in the well. Frictional forces and buckling tendencies are also simulated.

Inaccurate rod string spacing on rod pumped wells may result in significant maintenance costs and well productivity issues. To avoid unnecessary pump damage and optimize pump performance, precise placement of the rod string is key. This session will explore how a dual purpose well spacing tool /rod rotator addresses the need to adjust the rod string while harnessing benefits of a rod rotator. 

This paper explains the configuration, design, and mechanisms of an advanced gas regulator system installed underneath the ESP sensor to decrease downtime and stabilize the operational parameters of the pump. The gas regulation principle is based on the changes in the flow regimes found in unconventional wells where typically, gas slugging and high GLR frequently cause shutdowns and motor overheating. 

Gas and solid separation continue to be a significant challenge for operators. Gas interference causes unnecessary shutdowns in rod pumped wells, leading to difficult pumping conditions and lost production. Additionally, damage from solid abrasions leads to mechanically-incurred erosion failures. 

With a well-designed Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA), downtime as well as gas and solids passing through the pump can be minimized. 

An ongoing challenge for industry is the maintenance of stuffing boxes used in rod pump wellhead applications. This important component is the primary interface between the well and the environment and the correct functioning of this system is crucial for operators. Traditionally, the maintenance and adjustment of these devices has been performed manually, with field operators visiting wellsite daily to inspect, adjust and maintain the components.

The workover process provides a unique opportunity to directly measure wellbore friction as the rods effectively probe out the wellbore. Measuring this effect is challenging as no sensor exists that can provide an accurate, high resolution, high frequency measurement during the entire workover process. This presentation will analyze data gathered from a custom load & position sensor placed in-line with the rod-hook during the workover process. The normal rig crew process was unaltered beyond the initial installation and removal of the sensor.

The main constraint in a gas lift system is a limitation on injection volume and surface injection pressure due to the packaging and compressor capabilities available. In an ideal world, the system would have unlimited injection gas volume and unlimited injection pressure. This is often not the case with compressor availability and/or already-existing facilities. These constrains can limit the design and efficiency of a gas lift system. This study was conducted to establish a method that would allow deeper injection without increasing compressor discharge pressure.