| Popis: |
Sucker Rod Pump (SRP) and Progressive Cavity pumps (PCP) are two proven artificial lift methods used in horizontal wells cold production applications in a heavy oil green field in Kuwait. However, these artificial lift methods have some limitations with respect to depth, production rates, well trajectory and high viscous fluids and even more when handling gas and sand/ solids. Other important limitation with Conventional PCP in deviated wells with significant Dog Leg Severity (DLS), is tubing/ rod wear which can result in pump failures & well interventions which will ultimately hinder production. In view of the above issues, an innovative artificial lift system was selected, combining an Electric Submersible Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) with a Hydraulically Regulated Progressing Cavity Pump (HRPCP) including a modified stator/ rotor geometry for better gas handling capabilities replacing the conventional PCP. This paper presents preliminary results from a short field test of the PMM HRPCP system the first of its kind implemented on trial basis in a heavy oil green field operated by Kuwait Oil Company. This artificial lift system helped in lowering the pump intake pressure and reached the pump off condition by achieving optimal pressure distribution along the pump while pumping fluids with higher gas void fractions. This has resulted in production rate increment of 20 percent approximately, reducing the power consumption by 50 %, saving the down time for drive head maintenance and reducing oil deferment. This has ultimately resulted in optimization of OPEX (operating costs) and maximizing profit. |
