Selection of downhole equipment to operate wells with more than 30 m3 daily fluid production–Tatneft experience

Authors: N.G. Ibragimov, R.G. Zabbarov, I.D. Fatkullin (Tatneft OAO, RF, Almetyevsk), K.V. Valovsky (TatNINIneft, RF, Bugulma)

Key words: OPEX reduction, saving of energy costs on well production lifting, reduction of well intervention jobs, selection of optimal well operation method, equipment application range, sucker-rod pumping units, electrical submersible centrifugal pumping units, intermittent well operation, long-stroke pumping mode, chain drives

Based on Tatneft many years' experience of commercial application of sucker-rod and electrical submersible centrifugal pumping units, a trade-off study of statistically significant samples of wells has been performed. The authors endeavored to find a trade-off between ESP units allowing for intermittent operation and long-stroke sucker-rod pumping units with chain drives for oil wells producing more than 30 m³ of fluid per day. The paper presents recommendations on optimal application of equipment for Tatneft wells.

Key words: OPEX reduction, saving of energy costs on well production lifting, reduction of well intervention jobs, selection of optimal well operation method, equipment application range, sucker-rod pumping units, electrical submersible centrifugal pumping units, intermittent well operation, long-stroke pumping mode, chain drives

Based on Tatneft many years' experience of commercial application of sucker-rod and electrical submersible centrifugal pumping units, a trade-off study of statistically significant samples of wells has been performed. The authors endeavored to find a trade-off between ESP units allowing for intermittent operation and long-stroke sucker-rod pumping units with chain drives for oil wells producing more than 30 m³ of fluid per day. The paper presents recommendations on optimal application of equipment for Tatneft wells.