Artificial lift

Approach Uses Intentional Deadheading of ESPs To Improve Run Life

The paper presents successful field tests designed to decrease electrical-submersible-pump cooling rates by inducing controlled deadheads rather than shutting down the pumps.

Typical damage to ESP equipment caused by thermal cycling.
Fig. 1—Typical damage to ESP equipment caused by thermal cycling.

Electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) used in steam‑assisted gravity-drainage (SAGD) applications run at the highest motor temperatures possible. However, they cool very rapidly when shut down. High cooling rates promote motor oil volumetric contraction, eventually leading to wellbore fluid ingress and short-circuited motors. The complete paper discusses successful field tests designed to decrease ESP cooling rates by inducing controlled deadheads rather than shutting down ESPs.

×
SPE_logo_CMYK_trans_sm.png
Continue Reading with SPE Membership
SPE Members: Please sign in at the top of the page for access to this member-exclusive content. If you are not a member and you find JPT content valuable, we encourage you to become a part of the SPE member community to gain full access.