Well Pumping System Reservoir Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial lift systems for subterranean wells face challenges in efficiently lifting fluids to the surface when reservoir pressure is insufficient, leading to issues like pump-off and gas-locking, and require improvements in operation and reservoir analysis.
Innovation Solution
A well pumping system that uses a power source to control an actuator, which reciprocates a rod string to operate a downhole pump, with a control system regulating the reciprocation speed and stroke extent to prevent pump-off and maximize fluid flow, and incorporates a continuous position sensor for precise displacement monitoring, and a reservoir analysis method utilizing signal transmission from the downhole pump to sensors in another wellbore for reservoir characterization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a downhole pump is operated by reciprocating a rod string to lift fluids when reservoir pressure is insufficient, then fluid production is enabled, but pump-off and gas-locking conditions occur reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the reciprocation speed and stroke extent of the rod string based on real-time monitoring of fluid level, gas concentration, and pump performance. This dynamic adaptation prevents pump-off and gas-locking conditions by optimizing operating parameters continuously, resolving the contradiction between maintaining productivity and ensuring reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that monitor pump performance, fluid level, and gas concentration, providing feedback to adjust reciprocation parameters. This closed-loop control enables the system to detect and correct pump-off and gas-locking conditions, maintaining both productivity and operational reliability simultaneously.
2Reliability
If conventional artificial lift systems operate without precise position monitoring, then system complexity is reduced, but pump-off and gas-locking conditions cannot be effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs position sensors on the rod string that provide real-time feedback on pump position and fluid level. This feedback enables the control system to detect approaching pump-off or gas-locking conditions and adjust reciprocation parameters proactively, achieving reliable operation without requiring overly complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically adjusts reciprocation parameters based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for manual intervention or overly complex external control mechanisms. The system serves itself by using its own operational data to optimize performance and prevent problematic conditions, balancing reliability with manageable complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If reservoir pressure is insufficient to naturally lift fluids to surface, then natural flow is maintained, but artificial lift technology is required increasing energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically optimizes reciprocation speed and stroke extent to match reservoir conditions and fluid properties, minimizing energy consumption while maintaining effective fluid lifting. By adapting parameters in real-time, the system achieves efficient operation that reduces energy use compared to conventional fixed-parameter artificial lift systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively prevents pump-off and gas-locking, optimizes fluid flow and energy consumption, and enhances reservoir analysis by continuously monitoring and adjusting the pumping operation and using acoustic signals to determine reservoir characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting a signal from the downhole pump; receiving the signal at another wellbore
Data Source
AI summary
A reservoir analysis method can include transmitting a signal from a downhole pump in a wellbore, receiving the signal at another wellbore, and determining a reservoir characteristic from the received signal. A reservoir analysis system can include a downhole pump positioned in a wellbore and a sensor positioned at another wellbore. The downhole pump selectively transmits a signal, and the sensor receives the signal. Another reservoir analysis method can include selectively changing a reciprocating displacement of a rod string connected to a downhole pump in a wellbore, transmitting a signal from the downhole pump in response to the changed reciprocating displacement, receiving the signal at another wellbore, and determining a reservoir characteristic from the received signal.