Implementation of Bottom-Drive Progressive-Cavity Pumps Technology in La Cira-Infantas Oil Field as a Reliable Artificial Lift Method

Abstract

Abstract Most common failures in the conventional artificial lift systems (Progressive cavity pumps and Sucker rod systems) currently used in La Cira - Infantas field are due to rod string and tubing failures; mainly root causes identified are friction rod string-tubing and combined friction-corrosion which causes both rod and tubing failures. The aim of the bottom drive progressive cavity pumping systems also called Electrical Submersible Progressive Cavity Pumps (ESPCP) project in La Cira Infantas Field is to improve artificial lift systems run life by reduction of premature failures occurred in the rod and/or tubing string. ESPCP technology is a combination of Progressive Cavity Pump (PCP) and Electrical Submersible Pump (ESP) as an innovating artificial lifting method integrates the advantages of both systems, with compact surface equipment at the same time. PCP pump is an excellent choice for heavy oil and sandy fluids; however, rod pumps and rod driven PCP’s has also a limitation in highly deviated wells, pump speed and pump depth. By eliminating the need to drive the pump from surface by using a rod string represents a significant increase of equipment run life, reducing operating costs by intervention. Field test was performed as initial phase by installation of three systems, successfully running at this point. Phase two was the implementation of 17 systems in different flow ranges. This paper will discuss the technical and economical advantages, highlights, specifications and history cases. Finally, phase three is the implementation of ESPCP in the field as preferred system to produce the called intermediate flow rate wells.