Electric Motor Control for Pump Jacks via Dynamic Load Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for monitoring and controlling electric motors in oil field operations, such as those powering pump jacks, are inefficient due to fluctuating loads and lack of real-time responsiveness, leading to increased electric power consumption and suboptimal production.
Innovation Solution
A network-controlled system that adjusts the electric power consumption of electric motors based on parameters like revolutions per second, power factor, fluid composition, pressure, and viscosity to optimize energy use and reduce average power consumption over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the motor operates at high load to maintain high efficiency, then the motor efficiency is improved, but the electric power consumption increases during high load periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts motor speed and load based on real-time reservoir conditions and power availability. The motor controller modulates the motor operating point to match changing demands, transitioning from static high-load operation to dynamic adaptive operation that maintains efficiency while reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key operating parameters including motor speed, voltage, and current based on reservoir pressure, fluid viscosity, and power availability. By continuously adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes the motor operating point to balance efficiency with power consumption reduction during low-demand periods.
2Ease of operation
If human analysis is used to monitor reservoir behavior, then operational modifications can be made, but real-time response capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensors monitor reservoir pressure, fluid properties, and motor performance in real-time. This data is immediately processed by controllers that automatically adjust operating parameters, creating a closed-loop system that eliminates human analysis delays and enables real-time response to reservoir changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces human analytical processes with automated electronic monitoring and control systems. Sensors, data acquisition systems, and control algorithms substitute for human analysis, enabling continuous real-time monitoring and immediate operational adjustments without human intervention delays.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the motor operates at varying loads to match reservoir conditions, then adaptability is improved, but average efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic speed control and variable frequency drives to adjust motor operation to matching reservoir conditions. During high-demand periods, the motor operates at higher loads; during low-demand periods, it reduces load and speed. This dynamic adaptation maintains reasonable efficiency across varying conditions while improving overall system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic monitoring and adjustment cycles, where reservoir conditions are continuously assessed and motor operating parameters are periodically optimized. This periodic control strategy allows the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining efficiency through structured adjustment intervals rather than continuous variation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of controlling the performance of client nodes served by an electric power utility are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a method performed by a first network node that is operable to control via a client node an electric motor configured to operate a pump jack comprises sending, to the client node, an indication to change an amount of electric power consumed by the motor to operate the pump jack based on at least one of a value of a first parameter associated with operation of the motor and a value of a second parameter associated with operation of the pump jack so as to reduce an average amount of electric power consumed during a certain time period by the motor in operating the pump jack.