Sucker rod guide

Abstract

Disclosed herein are sucker rod guides having low friction and high wear resistance. A sucker rod guide longitudinal body, the longitudinal body uniformly made of a copper-nickel-tin alloy, and having a first end, a second end, a body outer diameter, and a smooth inner bore extending from the first end to the second end and adapted to engage a smooth inner bore of a sucker rod, the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprising: 5 wt% to 20 wt% nickel; 5 wt% to 10 wt% tin; and 70 wt% to 90 wt% copper. The outer surface of the guide can include grooves extending between the two ends. In particular embodiments, the guide is made by joining two identical guide segments together. In other embodiments, the guide is a single integral piece molded around a sucker rod.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 201880084489.1. Chinese Patent Application No. 201880084489.1 is the Chinese national phase application of international application PCT / US2018 / 067953, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 611,250, filed on December 28, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a low-friction and high-wear-resistant sucker rod guide, which is at least partially made of a spinodally-hardenable or spinodally-hardened copper alloy. Background Technology

[0004] Guiders are particularly effective for guiding and centering sucker rods into the conduit (also known as production line) of fluid extraction equipment, such as those manufactured and used in the oil and gas industry. Among other properties, the sucker rod guides disclosed herein reduce friction and are more wear-resistant, limit damage to the conduit inner diameter, enhance fluid extraction, and reduce overall well operating costs.

[0005] Fluid extraction equipment typically includes pumps for extracting fluids from underground reservoirs, conduits (also known as production lines) through which the generated fluids travel, a power source to power the pumps, and a sucker rod lifting system connecting the power source and the pumps. Typical fluids used for extraction include water, as well as various hydrocarbon-containing oils and gases.

[0006] A sucker rod lifting system consists of a series of sucker rods connected by couplings and housed inside a conduit or production pipeline. Damage to the conduit caused by repeated contact between the outer surface of the sucker rod and the inner surface of the conduit (both typically made of steel) can compromise the conduit's mechanical integrity, leading to leakage of the fluid transported by the conduit into the environment. Such leaks can easily cause the pumping process to stop and often require very costly additional work to repair the failure.

[0007] Typically, in wellbore bending conditions, such as in deviated wells (wells extending both horizontally and vertically) or wells produced by nonlinear drilling processes, guide tube damage is more likely. Placing the sucker rod guide around the sucker rod can minimize contact between the rod and the casing, thus reducing overall damage. However, contact still occurs between the sucker rod guide and the casing. Therefore, there is a desire to develop new sucker rod guides with improved properties. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure relates to sucker rod guides made at least partially of a buck-hardening copper alloy or a buck-hardening copper alloy. The sucker rod guide may be uniformly made of copper alloy, or the copper alloy may be present only on the outer surface (or a portion thereof) of the sucker rod guide, or the copper alloy may be present as an insert initially exposed on the outer surface or initially concealed within the interior of the sucker rod guide (and later exposed). Copper alloys provide sucker rod guides with a combination of properties, including high tensile strength, high fatigue strength, high fracture toughness, wear resistance, low friction, and corrosion resistance. The use of copper alloys reduces the occurrence of destructive damage to the guide and other components in the pump system using such guides, while providing mechanical functionality and efficiency during fluid recovery operations. This also extends the service life of these components and significantly reduces the cost of equipment used to recover fluid from the well.

[0009] Several embodiments thereof are disclosed herein, comprising a copper-nickel-tin alloy sucker rod guide. In some embodiments, the copper-nickel-tin alloy forms at least a portion of the outer surface of the sucker rod guide. In other embodiments, the copper-nickel-tin alloy is at least partially encapsulated in a non-copper alloy material, such as a polymeric resin.

[0010] In one embodiment, the sucker rod guide has a longitudinal body having a first end, a second end, an outer body diameter, and an outer surface. The sucker rod guide also has a smooth inner bore extending from the first end to the second end within the longitudinal body and adapted to engage a sucker rod. At least a portion of the outer surface of the sucker rod guide comprises a copper-nickel-tin alloy.

[0011] In some embodiments, the copper-nickel-tin alloy constituting at least a portion of the outer surface is in the form of a copper-nickel-tin alloy layer. This layer may comprise a high percentage of copper-nickel-tin alloy mixed with, for example, a polymeric resin. The copper-nickel-tin alloy may be dispersed in the resin in powder form, having a concentration gradient from a low concentration of metallic alloy powder at the center of the sucker rod guide to a high concentration of metallic alloy powder at the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0012] In other embodiments, the copper-nickel-tin alloy constituting at least a portion of the outer surface is in the form of one or more copper alloy inserts. The remainder of the sucker rod guide may be formed from an alternative material such as a polymeric resin. The copper-nickel-tin alloy may contain about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 10 wt% tin, and wherein the alloy has a residual deformation yield strength of at least 0.2% of 75 ksi.

[0013] This document also discloses a sucker rod guide assembly, which includes a sucker rod and a low-friction, high-wear-resistant sucker rod guide attached to the sucker rod. The sucker rod guide may have the structure described above, wherein the sucker rod extends through an inner bore.

[0014] Several embodiments thereof are also disclosed herein, which may be used in pairs or as a combination of individual components to form a sucker rod guide. Such a guide segment may include: a segment body having a first end and a second end; a semi-cylindrical central channel having a radius and extending longitudinally through the segment body; a first sliding joint and a second sliding joint located on opposite sides of the inner surface of the segment body and adapted to allow the sucker rod guide segment to move only longitudinally relative to another associated sucker rod guide segment; and at least one aperture extending through a first side of the segment body and adapted to allow associated fasteners to secure the sucker rod guide segment to the associated sucker rod guide segment.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first sliding joint is a pin and the second sliding joint is a tail, thus using a dovetail joint. Two identical guide segments can be used to form the sucker rod guide. In other embodiments, both the first and second sliding joints are pins or both are tails. It is conceivable to use a guide segment with two pins in conjunction with a guide segment with two tails to form a sucker rod guide. In a particular embodiment, the pin and tail each have sloping sidewalls.

[0016] In other embodiments, the sucker rod guide segment has a plurality of channels spaced apart from each other and extending between a first end and a second end of the segment body.

[0017] The sucker rod guide segment may also include at least one longitudinal groove in the outer surface of the segment body. Sometimes, the at least one longitudinal groove extends spirally from a first end to a second end of the segment body. In other cases, the at least one longitudinal groove extends longitudinally from the first end to the second end of the segment body. In a particular embodiment, on opposite sides of the segment body, a pair of longitudinal grooves are present in the outer surface of the segment body, each extending longitudinally from the first end to the second end of the segment body.

[0018] The segment body may also include a middle section, with the first and second ends tapering towards the middle section such that the outer diameter of the middle section is larger than the diameters of the first and second ends. This tapering may be linear or parabolic, for example.

[0019] The segmental body can be made of a copper-nickel-tin alloy containing about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 10 wt% tin, wherein the alloy has a residual yield strength of at least 75 ksi and a residual deformation yield strength of 0.2%. In another embodiment, the outer surface of the segmental body can be coated with a polymeric resin or an organic composite material. The metal segmental body serves as a frame for the outer covering layer.

[0020] In some alternative embodiments, the segment body is made of cured polymeric resin or organic composite material, and a copper alloy insert is present within the segment body. It is conceivable that in these embodiments, the sucker rod guide segment will initially wear down, eventually exposing the surface of the metal insert. The copper alloy insert will then mitigate further system wear.

[0021] This document also discloses a sucker rod guide, comprising: a longitudinal body having a first end, a second end, a body outer diameter, and an outer surface; a smooth inner bore extending from the first end to the second end within the longitudinal body and adapted to engage a sucker rod; and at least one groove extending from the first end to the second end. These sucker rod guides can be manufactured as a single piece or can be made from guide segments as described above.

[0022] In some embodiments, the sucker rod guide further includes at least one channel extending radially from the outer surface to the inner bore, the channel being adapted to receive an associated fastener to secure the sucker rod guide in place relative to the associated sucker rod.

[0023] This document also discloses a sucker rod guide assembly, including: a sucker rod; and a sucker rod guide as described above. The sucker rod passes through a smooth inner bore of the sucker rod guide and is connected to the sucker rod guide.

[0024] Adhesives can be used to connect the sucker rod and the sucker rod guide. Alternatively, the sucker rod guide may also include a channel extending radially from the outer surface to the inner bore, and fasteners pass through this channel to secure the sucker rod guide to the sucker rod. Other connection methods are also envisioned herein.

[0025] This document also discloses a pump system, including: a downhole pump; a power source for powering the downhole pump; and at least one sucker rod located between the downhole pump and the power source. A sucker rod guide surrounds the sucker rod and has the structure described above.

[0026] A method for extracting fluid from a well is also disclosed, comprising: connecting a downhole pump to a motor using a sucker rod string; and operating the downhole pump using the sucker rod string to extract fluid from the well. The sucker rod string includes a set of sucker rod guides comprising a copper-nickel-tin alloy; and wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises about 8 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 11 wt% tin, and has a coefficient of sliding friction of less than 0.4 when measured relative to carbon steel.

[0027] In certain implementations, the well is an inclined well or a well produced by nonlinear directional drilling.

[0028] These and other non-limiting features of this disclosure are disclosed in more detail below. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The following is a brief description of the accompanying drawings, which are provided to illustrate the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein and not to limit them.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the sucker rod guide assembly according to this disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A planar sectional view of the sucker rod guide.

[0032] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 A planar sectional view of the sucker rod guide shows further details.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the sucker rod guide segment according to this disclosure.

[0034] Figure 4A is Figure 3 A plan view of the inner surface of the sucker rod guide segment, showing more details.

[0035] Figure 4B is Figure 3 A top view of the sucker rod guide segment.

[0036] Figure 4C This is an enlarged top view of the first side of the top view in Figure 4B, showing details of the tail.

[0037] Figure 4D This is an enlarged top view of the second side of the top view in Figure 4B, showing details of the pin.

[0038] Figure 4E This is a top view showing how two identical sucker rod guide segments are joined together to form a sucker rod guide.

[0039] Figure 5 It is a plan view of the sucker rod guide according to this disclosure (i.e., viewed downwards along the longitudinal axis).

[0040] Figure 6 This is an external side view of a sucker rod guide having a groove extending parallel to a longitudinal axis between its two ends. The ends of the sucker rod guide taper linearly.

[0041] Figure 7 This is an external side view of a sucker rod guide having a groove extending parallel to a longitudinal axis between its two ends. The groove has a helical cross-section, meaning it is angled relative to the longitudinal axis. The ends of the sucker rod guide taper linearly.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the sucker rod guide segment according to the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the guide segment is made of a copper alloy and its outer surface is coated with a polymer resin.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a top view of another alternative embodiment of the sucker rod guide segment according to this disclosure. In this embodiment, the guide segment body is made of a non-copper alloy material, such as polymeric resin or organic composite material. One or more copper alloy inserts are present in the guide segment body near the outer surface.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a pumping system based on this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an inclined shaft.

[0046] Figure 12 This is an enlarged view of the kick-off point (KOP) of the deviated well. You can see that the sucker rod guide is contacting the production line, which is causing wear.

[0047] Figure 13This is a plan view (i.e., viewed downwards along the longitudinal axis) of another embodiment of the sucker rod guide assembly according to this disclosure. Here, the sucker rod guide is formed by directly molding the sucker rod onto the sucker rod. The sucker rod guide is made of a blend of polymeric resin and copper alloy powder. After molding the blend, the sucker rod guide assembly is rotated, which causes the copper alloy powder to preferentially move to the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0048] Figure 14 This is a plan view of another embodiment of the sucker rod guide assembly according to this disclosure. Here, similarly, the sucker rod guide is formed by directly molding the sucker rod onto the sucker rod. The mold and molding process allow for the positioning of one or more copper alloy inserts such that the copper alloy inserts are located on the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0049] Figure 15 This is a graph showing the typical sliding friction coefficients of various materials, measured by sliding the material on carbon steel. Detailed Implementation

[0050] A more complete understanding of the components, processes, and apparatus disclosed herein can be obtained by referring to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are merely illustrative representations for the convenience and ease of explanation of this disclosure and are therefore not intended to indicate the relative size and dimensions of the apparatus or its components, and / or to define or limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0051] Although specific terms are used in the description below for clarity, these terms are intended to refer only to the specific structures used to explain the selected embodiments in the accompanying drawings, and are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of this disclosure. In the drawings and the following description, it should be understood that similar numerical designations refer to components with similar functions.

[0052] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, nouns without quantifiers and nouns modified by "the" include singular and plural indicators of persons / kinds.

[0053] As used in the specification and claims, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “may,” “containing,” and variations thereof are open transitional phrases, terms, or words that require the presence of a specified component / step and allow for the presence of other components / steps. However, such a description should be interpreted as also describing the composition or method as consisting of the components / steps listed “by” and “substantially by”, which allows for the presence of only the specified component / step and any unavoidable impurities that may arise therefrom, and excludes other components / steps.

[0054] The numerical values ​​in the specification and claims of this application should be understood to include the same numerical values ​​when reduced to the same number of significant figures and numerical values ​​that differ from the stated values ​​by less than the experimental error of conventional type of measurement techniques used to determine the stated values ​​as described in this application.

[0055] All ranges disclosed herein include the indicated endpoints and can be combined independently (e.g., the range “2 g to 10 g” includes the endpoints 2 g and 10 g, as well as all intermediate values).

[0056] A value modified by one or more terms such as “about” and “basically” may not be limited to the specified exact value. Approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. The modifier “about” should also be considered as disclosing a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. For example, the statement “from about 2 to about 4” also discloses the range “from 2 to 4”. The term “about” may refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number.

[0057] The term “associated” as used in the claims refers to an unclaimed portion that helps to describe or explain the function or shape of the claimed portion.

[0058] This disclosure relates to the coefficient of sliding friction. This value is measured according to ASTM G77-17, entitled "Standard Test Method for Determining the Resistance to Sliding Wear of Materials Using the Block-Ring Wear Test", and ASTM D2714-94 (2014), entitled "Standard Test Method for Calibration and Operation of the Falex Ring-Block Friction and Wear Tester".

[0059] This disclosure relates to a sucker rod guide (and its segments) made at least in part of a buck-hardening copper alloy or a buck-hardening copper-based alloy. The copper alloy of this disclosure may be a copper-nickel-tin alloy having a combination of strength, ductility, high strain rate fracture toughness, lubricity, wear resistance, and scratch protection. The sucker rod guide is positioned around the sucker rod to prevent the sucker rod from contacting the wellbore / casing, thereby reducing damage and increasing production.

[0060] Figure 10 Various parts of a pump system 100 for extracting fluid from a well are shown, and are provided to illustrate the usage environment of the sucker rod guide of this disclosure.

[0061] System 100 has a walking beam 122 that causes a sucker rod string 124, including a polishing rod portion 125, to reciprocate. The sucker rod string 124 is suspended on the beam to actuate a downhole pump 126 located at the bottom of a well 128.

[0062] The walking beam 122 is then actuated by a steering arm, which in turn reciprocates via a crank arm 130 driven by a power source 132 (e.g., an electric motor), connected to the crank arm 130 via a gear reduction mechanism (e.g., a gearbox 134). This power source can be a three-phase AC induction motor or a synchronous motor, used to drive the pumping unit. The gearbox 134 converts the motor torque into a low-speed but high-torque output to drive the crank arm 130. The crank arm 130 is equipped with a counterweight 136 to balance the sucker rod 124 suspended on the beam 122. Balancing can also be provided by cylinders, such as those mounted on a pneumatic balancing unit. Belt-driven pumping units can be balanced using a counterweight or cylinders in the opposite direction of the rod stroke.

[0063] The downhole pump 126 may be a reciprocating pump having a plunger 138 attached to the end of a sucker rod string 124 and a barrel 140 attached to the end of a production line in the well 128. The plunger 138 includes a traveling valve 142 and a standing valve 144 located at the bottom of the barrel 140. During the pump's upstroke, the traveling valve 142 closes and lifts fluid (such as oil and / or water) above the plunger 138 to the top of the well, while the standing valve 144 opens and allows other fluids from the reservoir to flow into the barrel 140. During the downstroke, the traveling valve 142 opens and the standing valve 144 closes to prepare for the next cycle. The operation of the pump 126 is controlled such that the fluid level maintained in the barrel 140 is sufficient to keep the lower end of the sucker rod string 124 in fluid throughout the stroke. The sucker rod string 124 is surrounded by a conduit 111, which in turn is surrounded by a well casing 110. The sucker rod column below the polishing rod section 125 consists of sucker rods 124 held together by sucker rod couplings 123. A sucker rod guide 127 is attached to the sucker rods 124 in the column to guide the sucker rods 124 into the conduit 111 and center them.

[0064] Due to the contact between surfaces, coupled with the increased velocity as fluid leaves the pump and flows through the gap between the production tubing and the sucker rod string, conventional coupling geometry and materials lead to rapid tubing wear. Wear on the production tubing and sucker rod string is particularly pronounced when the well is a deviated well (extending in both horizontal and vertical directions) that can be produced by directional drilling.

[0065] in this regard, Figure 11 This is a diagram of an inclined shaft. Figure 12 This is a magnified view of the point where the slope is created. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the conduit / pipeline 150 is curved in the horizontal direction and can also rise / fall in the vertical direction, for example, following the fluid reservoir. The deviated well may contain multiple curves, each curved in a different direction. The sucker rod string 160 is located within the conduit.

[0066] like Figure 12 As better illustrated, the rod string 160 consists of a sucker rod 162, a sucker rod guide 164, and a sucker rod coupling 166. Due to the presence of a build-up section in the deviated well, the sucker rod guide 164 contacts the inner wall of the guide tube 150, as shown at position 152. Mechanical friction in the system increases due to the friction and wear between the sucker rod, guide tube, and guide tube / pipe. The sucker rod string can also be bent and flexed.

[0067] Next, Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the sucker rod guide 127 attached to the sucker rod 124. The sucker rod 124 has a diameter of 229. The sucker rod 124 has an outer surface 224 that contacts the inner surface (not visible) of the sucker rod guide 127. Various sucker rod dimensions are defined by API specification 11B, and version 27 of API specification 11B was released in May 2010.

[0068] According to some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the sucker rod guide is made into a single continuous material piece. The sucker rod guide can be made by machining (i.e., forging), casting, molding, or other methods from raw materials. Manufacturing methods for producing metal objects of a given shape are known and can be applied to the manufacture of sucker rod guides.

[0069] Refer again Figure 1 The sucker rod guide, which can be made as a single piece, can be slid onto the sucker rod 124 and then attached thereto using a fluid-resistant adhesive or mechanical fastener, as will be further described herein.

[0070] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view of the sucker rod guide 127, and it illustrates some aspects suitable for both one-piece and multi-piece embodiments. First, from... Figure 2A Initially, the sucker rod guide 127 includes a longitudinal body 332 having a first end 304 and a second end 306. The body 332 may have a generally cylindrical shape (when viewed from the top), with a length L greater than its outer diameter OD. The outer diameter OD of the body is greater than the outer diameter of the sucker rod. Figure 1 (See attached figure 229).

[0071] A smooth bore 302 extends along the central longitudinal axis 305 of the sucker rod guide 127 from the first end 304 to the second end 306, completely penetrating the body 332. The bore 302 defines the inner surface 310 of the sucker rod guide 127. In some embodiments, the bore 302 is shaped as a hollow cylinder with an inner diameter ID. It should be understood that the bore is shaped to match the dimensions of the sucker rod.

[0072] Each end of the guide 127 is tapered. The guide 127 includes a first end 304, a second end 306, and a middle portion 312. The first end 304 and the second end 306 taper towards the center of the guide such that the outer diameter OD of the middle portion 312 is larger than the diameter of each end. Therefore, the ends have tapered portions defined by diameters smaller than OD but larger than OD. The term "tapered" here refers only to a gradual decrease in diameter from the middle towards each end, and the change in diameter does not need to occur in any given manner. Here, in Figure 2A In some embodiments, the end of the guide tapers linearly (i.e., along line 317). In other embodiments, the end of the guide tapers parabolically.

[0073] Now for reference Figure 2B The linear tapering section may have an angle α, defined as the angle formed by the horizontal line 315 and the tapering line 317 parallel to the end of the guide. Typically, angle α is an acute angle, i.e., less than 90°. In some embodiments, angle α is approximately 60°.

[0074] Additionally, the two ends of the hole may include inner countersinks 350 and 352 located at respective ends 304 and 306. The countersink portions 354 and 356 increase the diameter at the end of the inner hole, thereby facilitating the insertion of the sucker rod. Here, the countersink portions 354 and 356 linearly (i.e., along line 357) increase the diameter of the inner hole towards the end of the guide. The countersink angle is defined as angle β, which is the angle formed between line 357 and the uncounter-sinked inner hole surface 310. Typically, angle β is an acute angle, i.e., less than 90°. In some embodiments, angle β is approximately 20°.

[0075] For reference Figure 1 and Figure 2A In some exemplary embodiments, the guide 127 is secured to a desired location on the sucker rod using an adhesive. The adhesive bonds the inner bore surface 310 to the outer surface of the sucker rod. Figure 1 (224). In some embodiments, the adhesive is a fluid-resistant adhesive, meaning that the fluid pumped by the pump assembly neither degrades the adhesive nor affects its adhesive properties.

[0076] In other embodiments, the guide 127 is attached to the sucker rod by a mechanical means. For example, in Figure 2AIn this design, the sucker rod guide 127 may include a radially oriented channel 319 (relative to the longitudinal axis 305) that receives fasteners for securing the sucker rod guide in place relative to the sucker rod. For example, the channel may be a threaded channel that receives a locating screw, which then applies frictional force to the sucker rod, causing the guide 127 to remain in the desired position around the sucker rod. Other mechanical means of securing the device to the rod may also be used.

[0077] According to some other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, a sucker rod guide is manufactured by combining two sucker rod guide segments. These guide segments may be made from raw materials by machining (i.e., forging), casting, molding, or other means. The guide segment itself may be a continuous piece of material or a combination of different materials as further described herein. Two such guide segments are joined together and can be slid onto the sucker rod 124, and then attached thereto using a fluid-resistant adhesive or mechanical fastener as described above.

[0078] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an exemplary sucker rod guide segment 527. Figure 4A is... Figure 3 Figure 4B is a plan view of the inner surface of the sucker rod guide segment. Figure 3 A top view of the sucker rod guide segment. Figure 4C This is an enlarged top view of the first side of the sucker rod guide segment. Figure 4D This is an enlarged top view of the second side of the sucker rod guide segment. Figure 4E The figures illustrate how two sucker rod guide segments can be combined to form a sucker rod guide assembly. The same reference numerals used in these figures refer to the same parts.

[0079] For reference Figure 3 The sucker rod guide segment 527 is formed by a segment body 532. The body 532 has a first end 504, a second end 506 opposite to the first end, and an outer surface 562. The first end and the second end are longitudinal ends as indicated by the longitudinal axis 505.

[0080] The sucker rod guide segment 527 includes a semi-cylindrical central channel 502 that extends along the longitudinal length of the guide segment and is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 505 of the guide segment. The central channel is formed on the inner surface 510 of the guide segment. As shown here, the channel has a semi-circular cross-section with a radius of r. The sucker rod engages with the central channel. The surface of the central channel is completely smooth, i.e., it does not contain threads. The central channel also divides the segment body into a first side 507 and a second side 509. In other words, the central channel lies between the first and second sides.

[0081] The outer surface 562 of the sucker rod guide segment has at least one groove. Two grooves 573 and 574 are shown here. These grooves allow fluid to flow through conduits around the sucker rod guide. As shown here, the groove extends linearly from the first end 504 to the second end 506, or in other words, the groove is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 505. In other embodiments, the groove extends non-linearly from the first end 504 to the second end 506. In these exemplary embodiments, as the groove extends from the first end to the second end, it extends between the two sides 507 and 509 of the outer surface. In some embodiments, the groove forms a helical path around the circumference of the assembled sucker rod guide.

[0082] The sucker rod guide segment 527 includes at least one channel 520 on a first side 507 of the segment body, which accommodates a fastener. As shown here, there are three such channels on the first side 507, spaced apart from each other between a first end and a second end of the segment body. Three such channels are also present on a second side 509 of the segment body. The channels extend from an outer surface 562 to an inner surface 510. Fasteners extend through the channels to secure the two guide segments together. For example, the channels may be threaded, and a threaded screw passes through the channel 520. Other fasteners may include pins, male and female combination bolts, nuts and bolts, snap-fit ​​mechanisms, or other mechanical fasteners known in the art.

[0083] The sucker rod guide segment 527 also includes a first sliding joint 570 and a second sliding joint 572. The first sliding joint is located on a first side 507 of the guide segment. The second sliding joint is located on a second side 509 of the guide segment. Each sliding joint 570, 572 is adapted to allow the sucker rod guide segment to move only longitudinally relative to / when connected to the second sucker rod guide segment. Typically, the sliding joint will extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 505 along the entire length of the guide segment (i.e., between the two ends 504, 506). As shown here, the sliding joint is a dovetail or pin-tail arrangement.

[0084] Referring now to Figure 4A, the inner surface 510 of the segment body 532 is visible. The first end 504, the second end 506, the first side 507, the second side 509, the central channel 502, and the longitudinal axis 505 are all marked. As shown here, the first sliding joint on the first side 507 is a tail or socket 582, and the second sliding joint on the second side 509 is a pin 580. The pin and the tail are complementary in shape. Also shown here, a channel 520 extends between the two ends 504 and 506. The channel also passes through both sliding joints.

[0085] Similarly, each end 504 and 506 of the sucker rod guide segment 527 is tapered. The first end 504 and the second end 506 tapere from the middle portion toward the central channel 502 of the guide segment 527, such that the outer radius of the middle portion is greater than the outer radius of the end with the tapered portion.

[0086] Figure 4B is a top view (viewed downwards along the longitudinal axis at the first end 502). The tail 582 and pin 580 are visible here. The radius r of the central channel is also shown here.

[0087] Figure 4C This is an enlarged top view of the tail section 582. Figure 4D This is an enlarged image of the 580 model. (Example) Figure 4C As shown, the tail portion 582 is shaped to have inclined sidewalls 585. The sidewalls of the tail portion are inclined, such that the tail portion is wider at its base (located inside the segmental body) than at the inner surface 510. Similarly, as Figure 4D As shown, pin 580 is shaped to have inclined sidewalls 586. The sidewalls of the pin are inclined, such that the pin is wider at its distal end 581 than at its inner surface 510.

[0088] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 4E As shown, two identical sucker rod guide segments 527A and 527B are joined together to form a sucker rod guide 557. Due to the shape of the pin and tail (as shown...) Figure 4C and Figure 4D As shown), two guide segments 527A and 527B are engaged by sliding the two segments together longitudinally. The pin of each guide segment engages with the tail of the other guide segment. Fasteners are then passed through the channel ( Figure 3 527A, 527B is inserted to secure the two guide segments together. Each guide segment 527A, 527B covers half (50%) of the sucker rod circumference. Using the same parts reduces manufacturing costs and simplifies operation, as only one type of part needs to be manufactured and shipped.

[0089] It should be noted that due to the pin-tail shape (e.g., trapezoidal) of the two sliding joints, when the pins and tails are engaged, the two guide segments can only move longitudinally relative to each other. More specifically, the two guide segments cannot be pulled apart on the axis defined by the channel 520. In use, this means that if, for some reason, all fasteners through the channel 520 break and the adhesive connecting the sucker rod guide to the sucker rod fails, the two guide segments will not separate from the sucker rod and fall into the well casing, potentially leading to blockage or puncture. More precisely, the two guide segments can only slide along the sucker rod until they encounter another sucker rod guide or sucker rod coupling.

[0090] In some other conceptual embodiments, the sucker rod guide may be formed from two different sucker rod guide segments. One sucker rod guide segment includes pins on both sides of its inner surface, while a second complementary sucker rod guide segment includes tails on both sides of its inner surface.

[0091] Figure 5 This is a top view of a sucker rod guide (whether formed as a single piece or from multiple guide segments). The top section of the sucker rod guide 430 is generally circular, with a hole 442 extending completely through the guide along its longitudinal axis. The outer surface 462 of the guide has at least one groove. Here, four grooves 471, 472, 473, and 474 are shown. The guide has an inner diameter 425 and an outer diameter 427. Each groove has a depth 475 measured relative to the diameter of the guide. Each groove may have a desired depth, and any number of grooves may be present. In some exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the groove depth 475 is at most half the difference between the outer diameter 427 and the inner diameter 425. In other exemplary embodiments, multiple grooves are present, and the grooves are generally evenly spaced around the periphery of the guide.

[0092] For reference Figure 6 In an external view, the guide has a first end 434, a second end 436, and a middle portion 428. The first end 434 and the second end 436 taper downwards, meaning that the diameter of the middle portion 428 is larger than the diameter of each end of the guide. Again, the term "tapering" here refers only to the diameter gradually decreasing from the middle portion towards each end, and the change in diameter does not need to occur in any given manner. Figure 6 In the middle, the ends of the core taper linearly (i.e., along a straight line). Grooves 471 and 472 are also visible and extend linearly from the first end to the second end, substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 460.

[0093] Figure 7 This illustrates another aspect of the disclosure. Figure 7 This is a side view of the sucker rod guide 430. Here, the groove does not extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 460. Specifically, the grooves 471, 472 extend spirally from the first end 434 to the second end 436, or in other words, from one side of the periphery to the other, similar to the threads on a screw. The longitudinal distance covered by a complete circle of the groove (also known as the lead) can be varied as needed.

[0094] Refer again Figure 10Ideally, the sucker rod guide 127 contacts the conduit 111, rather than the sucker rod 124. This reduces wear on the sucker rod and the conduit. The grooves on the outer surface of the sucker rod guide provide a channel for fluid flow, reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the sucker rod guide 127 and lowering the resistance to fluid flow caused by the use of the sucker rod guide.

[0095] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the sucker rod guide and the sucker rod guide segment are made of copper alloy material, or of copper alloy material added to a polymer resin (i.e., a composite material), or of copper alloy material molded into a polymer resin.

[0096] Typically, copper alloys are cold-worked before being reheated to influence the spinodal decomposition of their microstructure. Cold working is a process that mechanically alters the shape or size of a metal through plastic deformation. This can be accomplished by rolling, drawing, pressing, spinning, extruding, or upsetting the metal or alloy. When a metal undergoes plastic deformation, atomic dislocations occur within the material. Specifically, dislocations occur between or within the grains of the metal. Dislocations overlap each other, increasing the dislocation density within the material. This increase in overlapping dislocations makes further dislocation movement more difficult. This increases the hardness and tensile strength of the resulting alloy, while generally reducing its ductility and impact resistance. Cold working can improve the surface finish of the alloy. Mechanical cold working is typically performed at temperatures below the recrystallization point of the alloy and usually at room temperature.

[0097] Spinodal aging / decomposition is a mechanism through which multiple components can separate into various regions or microstructures with different chemical compositions and physical properties. Specifically, crystals with the bulk composition located in the central region of the phase diagram undergo exsolution. Instantaneous decomposition at the alloy surface of this disclosure leads to surface hardening.

[0098] The unstable alloy structure consists of a homogeneous two-phase mixture resulting from the separation of the initial phase at a certain temperature, and a composition known as the miscibility gap reached at high temperatures. The alloy phase spontaneously decomposes into other phases in which the crystal structure remains unchanged, but the atoms within the structure are modified while their sizes remain similar. Instability hardening increases the yield strength of the base metal and results in a highly homogeneous composition and microstructure.

[0099] In most cases, unstable alloys exhibit anomalies in their phase diagrams known as solubility gaps. Within the relatively narrow temperature range of these solubility gaps, atomic ordering occurs within the existing crystal lattice structure. The resulting two-phase structure is stable at temperatures significantly below these gaps.

[0100] The copper-nickel-tin alloys used in this article typically contain about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 10 wt% tin, with the balance being copper. In other words, copper-nickel-tin alloys contain about 70 wt% to about 90 wt% copper. This alloy can be hardened and is more easily formed into products with high yield strength, suitable for a variety of industrial and commercial applications. This high-performance alloy is designed to provide properties similar to copper-beryllium alloys.

[0101] More specifically, the copper-nickel-tin alloy of this disclosure comprises about 9 wt% to about 15 wt% nickel and about 6 wt% to about 9 wt% tin, with the balance being copper (i.e., about 76 wt% to about 85 wt% copper). In a more specific embodiment, the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises about 14.5 wt% to about 15.5 wt% nickel and about 7.5 wt% to about 8.5 wt% tin, with the balance being copper (i.e., about 76 wt% to about 78 wt% copper).

[0102] More preferably, the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises about 14 wt% to about 16 wt% nickel, including about 15 wt% nickel; and about 7 wt% to about 9 wt% tin, including about 8 wt% tin; the balance being copper, excluding impurities and trace additives. In some other preferred embodiments, the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises about 8 wt% to about 10 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 7 wt% tin, the balance being copper, excluding impurities and trace additives.

[0103] Trace additives include boron, zirconium, iron, and niobium, which further promote the formation of equiaxed crystals and also reduce the difference in diffusion rates of Ni and Sn in the matrix during solution heat treatment. Other trace additives include magnesium and manganese, which can act as deoxidizers and / or affect the mechanical properties of the finished alloy. Other elements may also be present. Impurities include beryllium, cobalt, silicon, aluminum, zinc, chromium, lead, gallium, or titanium. For the purposes of this disclosure, amounts of these elements less than 0.01 wt% should be considered unavoidable impurities, i.e., their presence is neither intentional nor desired. Each of the aforementioned elements is present in the copper-nickel-tin alloy at no more than about 0.3 wt%. Typically, impurities and trace additives together account for no more than 1 wt% of the copper-nickel-tin alloy.

[0104] Ternary copper-nickel-tin unstable alloys exhibit a favorable combination of properties, such as high strength, excellent tribological properties, and high corrosion resistance in seawater and acidic environments. The increased yield strength of the base metal is likely due to the unstable decomposition within the copper-nickel-tin alloy.

[0105] The alloys used to manufacture the guides and guide segments of this disclosure may have a residual deformation yield strength of at least 0.2% of 75 ksi (including at least 85 ksi, at least 90 ksi, or at least 95 ksi). When measured relative to carbon steel, copper-nickel-tin alloys may also have a coefficient of sliding friction of 0.4 or less, or 0.3 or less, or 0.2 or less.

[0106] In a more specific implementation, copper-based alloys can be sourced from Materion under the trade name... 3 or 2. Obtained through commercial purchase. 2 is designated as Cu-9Ni-6Sn alloy.

[0107] 3 is designated as a Cu-15Ni-8Sn alloy. Based on its grade or characteristic (temper), 3. It can have a minimum 0.2% residual yield strength from about 95 ksi to about 150 ksi; a minimum ultimate tensile strength from about 105 ksi to about 160 ksi; a minimum elongation from about 3% to about 18%; a minimum Rockwell hardness C from about 22 HRC to about 36 HRC; a coefficient of friction less than 0.3; and an average Charpy V-notch (CVN) toughness up to 30 ft-lbs (including about 30 ft-lbs). The 0.2% residual yield strength and ultimate tensile strength are measured according to ASTM E8. The Rockwell C hardness is measured according to ASTM E18. The CVN toughness is measured according to ASTM E23. 3. It also resists CO2 corrosion, chloride SCC, pitting corrosion, and crevice corrosion. According to NACE MRO172 (H2S Environmental Testing and Drilling Guidelines), 3. It is also resistant to corrosion, HE, SSC and general corrosion (including mild sulfur wells).

[0108] These properties can exist in different combinations. For example, 3 is offered in multiple grades, such as TS95, TS120U, TS130 and TS160U grades.

[0109] The TS95 grade has a minimum 0.2% residual yield strength of approximately 95 ksi; a minimum ultimate tensile strength of approximately 105 ksi; a minimum elongation of approximately 18%; a minimum Rockwell hardness of approximately 93 HRB; and an average Charpy V-notch (CVN) toughness of approximately 30 ft-lbs.

[0110] The TS120U grade has a minimum 0.2% residual yield strength of approximately 110 ksi; a minimum ultimate tensile strength of approximately 120 ksi; a minimum elongation of approximately 15%; a minimum Rockwell hardness C of approximately 22 HRC; and an average Charpy V-notch (CVN) toughness of approximately 11 ft-lbs.

[0111] The TS130 grade has a minimum 0.2% residual deformation yield strength of approximately 130 ksi; a minimum ultimate tensile strength of approximately 140 ksi; a minimum elongation of approximately 10%; and a minimum Rockwell hardness C of approximately 24 HRC.

[0112] The TS160U grade has a minimum 0.2% residual yield strength of approximately 148 ksi; a minimum ultimate tensile strength of approximately 160 ksi; a minimum elongation of approximately 3%; and a minimum Rockwell hardness of approximately 32 HRC.

[0113] Figure 8 and Figure 9 Further embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Although these two figures are diagrams of sucker rod guide segments, the discussion also applies to the sucker rod guide itself.

[0114] exist Figure 8 In this figure, the sucker rod guide segment 527 includes a segment body 532. The segment body is made of a copper alloy, such as the aforementioned copper-nickel-tin alloy. The outer surface 562 of the segment body 532 is covered with a cover layer 590, which can be considered as the outermost layer of the guide segment. This cover layer is made of a non-copper-nickel-tin alloy material. Examples of such non-copper alloy materials include polymeric resins or organic composite materials. The segment body may have openings (not shown) to better attach the cover layer to the segment body. Examples of such openings may include channels or other textures that effectively increase the outer surface area. In this figure, the inner surface 510 is not covered with the cover layer 590; however, the inner surface may also be covered.

[0115] exist Figure 9In this embodiment, the sucker rod guide segment 527 also includes a segment body 532. In this embodiment, the segment body is made of a material that is not a copper-nickel-tin alloy, i.e., a polymeric resin or organic composite material. One or more copper alloy inserts are located within the segment body, near the outer surface 562, particularly in areas of high wear. Three copper alloy inserts 592, 594, and 596 are shown here. Copper alloy insert 592 is located within a lobe 550 of the segment body. The lobe is the central circumferential portion of the segment body that will contact the well casing. Copper alloy insert 594 is located near the first side 507, while copper alloy insert 596 is located near the second side 509. The copper alloy inserts are made of a copper alloy, such as the aforementioned copper-nickel-tin alloy.

[0116] In these embodiments, the copper alloy insert can be placed in the mold during assembly, and then positioned when a material that is not a copper-nickel-tin alloy (i.e., a polymeric resin or organic composite material) is injected into the molding cavity and cured / hardened. The resulting sucker rod guide and sucker rod guide segment are designed to wear during initial use. Eventually, the copper alloy surface within the body will be exposed. This wear-resistant and lubricated surface will then mitigate further system wear.

[0117] The polymeric resin can be, for example, polyolefins such as polyethylene or polypropylene; polycarbonate; polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polystyrene; polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE); polychloroprene; polyaramid; polyamide; or other polymers suitable for oil well production environments.

[0118] Figure 13 and Figure 14 Further embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Previous figures illustrated sucker rod guide segments, wherein two sucker rod guide segments are joined together to form a sucker rod guide, and the sucker rod guide is attached to the sucker rod by mechanical fasteners or adhesive. Figure 13 and Figure 14 In this embodiment, the sucker rod guide is formed as a single integral part surrounding the sucker rod. This is achieved, for example, by injection molding the sucker rod guide around the sucker rod. Although these two figures are diagrams of the sucker rod guide, the discussion also applies to the sucker rod guide segment.

[0119] Figure 13 Based on the plan view of the sucker rod guide assembly 600 disclosed herein, it is similar to... Figure 1The sucker rod guide assembly includes a sucker rod 610 and a sucker rod guide 620 formed around the sucker rod. The body 630 of the sucker rod guide has an outer surface 632. Four grooves 640 are shown on this outer surface, extending longitudinally between the two ends of the sucker rod body.

[0120] Here, the sucker rod guide is formed by directly molding it onto the sucker rod. This is accomplished by placing the sucker rod into a mold that defines the shape of the sucker rod guide. The sucker rod is fixed in place relative to the mold. The sucker rod guide is then formed using a blend of materials. The blend is injected into the mold in a liquid state. After injection, the mold is rotated about the longitudinal axis of the sucker rod. The rotation speed can range from 500 rpm to 10,000 rpm. For clarity, it should be noted that the sucker rod rotates together with the mold so that the blend hardens onto the sucker rod as the resin cures.

[0121] The blend can also be considered a composite material and comprises (A) a copper alloy powder and (B) a non-copper alloy material. Examples of non-copper alloy materials include (1) the polymeric resin described above, and (2) a second metal or metal alloy different from the copper alloy used to manufacture the powder. The second metal or metal alloy should have a lower density and a lower melting temperature than the copper alloy powder, so that the copper alloy powder can form the outer surface of the sucker rod guide. Suitable metals or metal alloys may include aluminum or zinc, or possibly brass or bronze alloys.

[0122] Because copper alloy powder is denser than non-copper alloy materials, rotation causes the copper alloy powder to preferentially move away from the sucker rod and towards the outer surface of the sucker rod guide itself. Therefore, a concentration gradient of copper alloy powder can exist in the non-copper alloy material, with the lowest powder concentration at the inner diameter (near the sucker rod) and the highest powder concentration on the outer surface of the sucker rod guide. The gradient between the inner diameter and the outer surface can be varied as needed, depending on the rotational speed, rotation time, and other factors.

[0123] Specifically, a thin layer 634 containing a large amount of copper alloy powder can be formed on the outer surface of the sucker rod guide. The density of this layer, or "skin," can be at least 0.18 lbs per cubic inch and can be as high as 0.2 lbs / in. 3 In comparison, polymeric resins typically have a content of approximately 0.03 lbs / in. 3 To approximately 0.08 lbs / in 3 The density of copper alloy powder is typically an order of magnitude greater than that of copper alloy powder. For example, using the trademark as described above... The density of the Cu-15Ni-8Sn alloy sold is 0.325 lb / in. 3 .

[0124] The blend of (A) copper alloy powder and (B) non-copper alloy material may comprise about 20 wt% to about 70 wt% copper alloy powder and about 30 wt% to about 80 wt% non-copper alloy material. In particular, it is conceivable in some embodiments that the non-copper alloy material is a polymeric resin.

[0125] Additives may be added to the blend if necessary; however, the additives should be selected so as not to significantly or adversely affect the desired performance of the sucker rod guide. Such additives may include, for example, impact modifiers, UV stabilizers, heat stabilizers, lubricants, or antioxidants. The total amount of additives added typically does not exceed 5 wt% of the blend.

[0126] Copper alloy powders can be formed by mechanical, chemical, and electrochemical processes, or any combination of at least two of these process types. Non-limiting examples of mechanical processes include milling, crushing, and atomization. Atomization refers to the mechanical breaking up of a melt. In some embodiments, atomization is performed using high-pressure water or gas. Atomization can be centrifugal atomization, vacuum atomization, or ultrasonic atomization. Non-limiting examples of chemical processes include precipitation from a solution. Precipitation methods can include precipitating the alloy from a leaching solution (e.g., by cementation, electrolysis, or chemical reduction). Alloy / composite powders can be produced by co-precipitation and / or continuous precipitation of different metals. Non-limiting examples of electrochemical processes can include depositing a metal onto a cathode (e.g., as a powdered deposit or as a smooth, dense, and brittle deposit) followed by grinding. Electrolytic cell conditions can be controlled to obtain the desired particle shape and size.

[0127] The particle size of the copper alloy powder can range from about 2 micrometers to about 500 micrometers in diameter. In certain embodiments, the diameter of the powder material can be from about 2 micrometers to about 90 micrometers, wherein at least 50 vol% of the particles have a diameter of less than 80 micrometers. In some more specific embodiments, the diameter of the powder can be from about 2 micrometers to about 90 micrometers, wherein at least 85 vol% of the particles have a diameter of less than 80 micrometers. In other desired embodiments, the particle diameter is from about 5 micrometers to about 100 micrometers. Alternatively, the powder particles can pass through a 220-mesh sieve.

[0128] Figure 14This is a plan view of yet another sucker rod guide assembly. The sucker rod guide assembly 602 includes a sucker rod 610 and a sucker rod guide 620 formed around the sucker rod. The body 630 of the sucker rod guide has an outer surface 632. In this illustration, four recesses 640 are shown on the outer surface, extending longitudinally between the two ends of the sucker rod body.

[0129] In this embodiment, the copper alloy insert 650 (dashed line) is located within the body of the sucker rod guide. Here, four copper alloy inserts are located on the outer surface portion that will contact the well casing. Other configurations are also possible. The copper alloy inserts can have any desired thickness, and in some embodiments, a thickness of 0.1 inches to approximately 0.5 inches is envisioned.

[0130] It is conceivable that a sucker rod guide could also be formed by directly molding the sucker rod guide onto the sucker rod, as described above. Figure 13 The mold can be shaped to receive a copper alloy insert and place it on the outer surface of the sucker rod guide. A non-copper alloy material will be bonded to both the copper alloy insert and the sucker rod. As mentioned above, the non-copper alloy material may also include additives. Rotation of the mold may not be necessary for this embodiment, but it can be performed if required.

[0131] The sucker rod guide and sucker rod guide segment disclosed herein can be manufactured using casting and / or molding techniques known in the art.

[0132] The copper-nickel-tin alloy disclosed herein exhibits very low friction. Nickel alloys in contact with carbon steel typically have a coefficient of sliding friction of 0.7. Carbon steel in contact with carbon steel typically has a coefficient of sliding friction of 0.6. In contrast, nickel alloys in contact with carbon steel... 3 typically has a coefficient of sliding friction less than 0.2. See also Figure 15 This significantly reduces wear when different components of the pump system rub against each other. It can also significantly reduce overall frictional losses in the pumping system.

[0133] Using a copper-nickel-tin alloy in sucker rod guides results in lower power consumption and increased pump capacity. This alloy combines a low coefficient of friction, high toughness (CVN), high tensile strength, high corrosion resistance, and high wear resistance. This unique combination of properties allows the sucker rod guide to meet the required basic mechanical and corrosion-resistant characteristics while reliably protecting system components from abrasion damage, thus significantly extending system life and reducing the risk of unexpected failures. One result is longer well life between maintenance shutdowns.

[0134] This disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments. Modifications and changes may arise in others upon reading and understanding the foregoing detailed description. The exemplary embodiments are intended to be construed as including all such modifications and changes, provided that they fall within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

[0135] This application provides technical solutions for the following projects in some implementation schemes:

[0136] Project 1. A sucker rod guide comprising a copper-nickel-tin alloy.

[0137] Project 2. The sucker rod guide according to Project 1, when measured relative to carbon steel, has a sliding friction coefficient of less than 0.4.

[0138] Project 3. The sucker rod guide according to Project 1, wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy is present on the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0139] Project 4. The sucker rod guide according to Project 1, wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy is in the form of one or more copper-nickel-tin alloy inserts.

[0140] Project 5. The sucker rod guide according to Project 4, wherein the one or more copper-nickel-tin alloy inserts constitute at least a portion of the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0141] Item 6. The sucker rod guide according to Item 1, wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 10 wt% tin, and wherein the alloy has a residual deformation yield strength of at least 0.2% at 75 ksi.

[0142] Item 7. The sucker rod guide according to Item 1 further includes:

[0143] A longitudinal body, the longitudinal body having a first end, a second end, an outer diameter, and an outer surface; and

[0144] A smooth inner bore extends from the first end to the second end in the longitudinal body and is adapted to engage a sucker rod.

[0145] Project 8. The sucker rod guide according to Project 7, wherein the longitudinal body comprises a non-copper alloy material.

[0146] Project 9. The sucker rod guide according to Project 8, wherein the non-copper alloy material is a polymer resin.

[0147] Item 10. The sucker rod guide according to Item 7, wherein (A) at least one groove extends from the first end to the second end; and (B) (1) wherein the at least one groove is parallel to a longitudinal axis extending from the first end to the second end, or (2) wherein the at least one groove extends helically from the first end to the second end.

[0148] Item 11. A sucker rod guide assembly, comprising:

[0149] Sucker rod; and

[0150] A sucker rod guide attached to the sucker rod, wherein the sucker rod guide comprises a copper-nickel-tin alloy, and wherein the sucker rod guide has a coefficient of sliding friction of less than 0.4 when measured relative to carbon steel.

[0151] Item 12. The sucker rod guide assembly according to Item 11, wherein the sucker rod guide is molded onto the sucker rod.

[0152] Item 13. The sucker rod guide assembly according to Item 11, wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy is formed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0153] Item 14. The sucker rod guide assembly according to Item 11, wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy includes one or more copper-nickel-tin alloy inserts forming at least a portion of the outer surface of the sucker rod guide.

[0154] Item 15. The sucker rod guide assembly according to Item 11, wherein the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 10 wt% tin, and wherein the alloy has a residual deformation yield strength of at least 0.2% of 75 ksi.

[0155] Item 16. The sucker rod guide assembly according to Item 11, wherein the sucker rod guide is attached to the sucker rod with an adhesive.

[0156] Item 17. A sucker rod guide segment, comprising:

[0157] A segmental body, the segmental body having a first end and a second end;

[0158] A semi-cylindrical central channel, which has a radius and extends longitudinally through the segment body;

[0159] A first sliding joint and a second sliding joint, located on opposite sides of the inner surface of the segment body, and adapted to allow the sucker rod guide segment to move only longitudinally relative to another associated sucker rod guide segment; and

[0160] At least one channel extending through a first side of the segment body and adapted to allow associated fasteners to secure the sucker rod guide segment to the associated sucker rod guide segment;

[0161] Specifically, when measured relative to carbon steel, the outer surface of the sucker rod guide segment has a sliding friction coefficient of less than 0.4.

[0162] Item 18. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein the segment body is made of a copper-nickel-tin alloy comprising about 5 wt% to about 20 wt% nickel and about 5 wt% to about 10 wt% tin, wherein the alloy has a residual deformation yield strength of at least 0.2% at 75 ksi.

[0163] Item 19. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein the outer surface of the segment body is coated with a non-copper alloy material; or

[0164] The segment body is made of a non-copper alloy material, and a copper alloy insert is present near the outer surface of the segment body.

[0165] Item 20. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein the first sliding joint is a pin and the second sliding joint is a tail section.

[0166] Item 21. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 20, wherein the pin and the tail each have inclined sidewalls.

[0167] Item 22. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein the first sliding joint and the second sliding joint are both pins, or both are tail sections.

[0168] Item 23. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein the at least one channel is a plurality of channels spaced apart from each other and extending between the first end and the second end of the segment body.

[0169] Item 24. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein:

[0170] (I) The sucker rod guide segment further includes at least one longitudinal groove in the outer surface of the segment body, wherein (A) as the at least one longitudinal groove extends from the first end of the segment body to the second end, the groove spirals from the first side of the segment body to the second side of the segment body; or (B) wherein the at least one longitudinal groove extends longitudinally from the first end of the segment body to the second end; or

[0171] (II) wherein, on the opposite side of the segment body, the sucker rod guide segment further includes a pair of longitudinal grooves in the outer surface of the segment body, each groove extending longitudinally from the first end of the segment body to the second end.

[0172] Item 25. The sucker rod guide segment according to Item 17, wherein the segment body further includes a middle portion, wherein the first end and the second end taper toward the middle portion such that the outer diameter of the middle portion is greater than the diameter of the first end and the second end.

[0173] Item 26. A pump system comprising:

[0174] Downhole pumps;

[0175] A power source for providing power to the downhole pump; and

[0176] At least one sucker rod located between the downhole pump and the power source; and

[0177] At least one sucker rod guide surrounding the at least one sucker rod, wherein the sucker rod guide includes:

[0178] Outer surface, wherein at least a portion of the outer surface comprises a copper-nickel-tin alloy; and

[0179] A smooth inner bore, the smooth inner bore being adapted to engage the sucker rod;

[0180] The sucker rod passes through the smooth inner hole, and the sucker rod guide has a coefficient of sliding friction of less than 0.4 when measured relative to carbon steel.

Claims

1. A sucker rod guide, comprising: A longitudinal body, uniformly made of a copper-nickel-tin alloy, having a first end, a second end, an outer diameter, an outer surface, and a smooth inner bore extending from the first end to the second end and adapted to slidably engage a sucker rod. The smooth inner bore has an inner diameter, a first internal countersink at the first end, and a second internal countersink at the second end, each internal countersink having an angle β less than 90° to increase the inner diameter toward its respective end. The longitudinal body is a single integral piece of the copper-nickel-tin alloy, and the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises: 5 wt% to 20 wt% nickel; 5 wt% to 10 wt% tin; and 70 wt% to 90 wt% copper.

2. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein, When measured relative to carbon steel, the outer surface has a coefficient of sliding friction of less than 0.

4.

3. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein, The copper-nickel-tin alloy has a residual deformation yield strength of at least 0.2% of 75 ksi.

4. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein the sucker rod guide has a uniform composition and microstructure.

5. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein, The copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises 9 wt% to 15 wt% nickel; 6 wt% to 9 wt% tin; and 76 wt% to 85 wt% copper.

6. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein, The copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises 14.5 wt% to 15.5 wt% nickel; 7.5 wt% to 8.5 wt% tin; and 76 wt% to 78 wt% copper.

7. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein, The outer surface has a first side, a second side, and at least one groove between the first side and the second side, the at least one groove being parallel to a longitudinal axis extending from the first end to the second end.

8. The sucker rod guide according to claim 7, wherein, The at least one groove extends spirally from the first end to the second end.

9. The sucker rod guide according to claim 1, wherein, The angle β is 20°.

10. A sucker rod guide segment, the segment comprising: The segment body is uniformly made of copper-nickel-tin alloy and has a first end, a second end and an outer surface, wherein the segment body is a single integral piece of the copper-nickel-tin alloy; A semi-cylindrical smooth inner channel has a radius and extends longitudinally from the first end to the second end through the segment body. The semi-cylindrical smooth inner channel has a first internal countersink at the first end and a second internal countersink at the second end. Each internal countersink has an angle β of less than 90° to increase the radius toward its respective end. A first sliding joint and a second sliding joint are located on opposite sides of the inner surface of the segment body and are adapted to allow the sucker rod guide segment to move only longitudinally relative to another associated sucker rod guide segment. as well as At least one channel extending radially through a first side of the segment body and adapted to allow associated fasteners to secure the sucker rod guide segment to the associated sucker rod guide segment; The copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises: 5 wt% to 20 wt% nickel; 5 wt% to 10 wt% tin; and 70 wt% to 90 wt% copper.

11. The sucker rod guide segment according to claim 10, wherein, When measured relative to carbon steel, the outer surface has a coefficient of sliding friction of less than 0.

4.

12. A sucker rod guide assembly, comprising: Sucker rod; and A sucker rod guide attached to the sucker rod, wherein the sucker rod guide includes: A longitudinal body, uniformly made of a copper-nickel-tin alloy, having a first end, a second end, an outer diameter, an outer surface, and a smooth inner bore extending from the first end to the second end and adapted to slidably engage a sucker rod. The smooth inner bore has an inner diameter, a first internal countersink at the first end, and a second internal countersink at the second end, each internal countersink having an angle β less than 90° to increase the inner diameter toward its respective end. The longitudinal body is a single, integral piece of the copper-nickel-tin alloy, and the copper-nickel-tin alloy comprises: 5 wt% to 20 wt% nickel; 5 wt% to 10 wt% tin; and 70 wt% to 90 wt% copper.

13. The sucker rod guide assembly according to claim 12, wherein, When measured relative to carbon steel, the outer surface has a coefficient of sliding friction of less than 0.

4.

14. The sucker rod guide assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The sucker rod guide is molded onto the sucker rod.

15. The sucker rod guide assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The sucker rod guide is attached to the sucker rod using an adhesive.

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