New Anchor Extends Insertable Progressing-Cavity-Pump Applications

Abstract

Young Technology Showcase In artificial-lift applications, a new anchoring device for insertable progressing-cavity pumps (I-PCPs) extends I-PCP applications to a larger set of candidate wells. The I-PCP anchor allows an I-PCP to be run, landed, operated, and removed from a tubing string in the absence of a previously installed pump-seating nipple (PSN) typically required for installation. Conventional PCPs are installed by running the stator assembly on the bottom of the tubing string and the rotor on the bottom of the rod string. In contrast, with an I-PCP, the entire pump assembly is installed by the rod string and landed inside the tubing string. This allows the pump to be pulled and rerun by the rod string. The primary advantage of this system is the elimination of costly and time-consuming tubing pulls to change worn or damaged pumps or to switch to different pump sizes and configurations as downhole pumping requirements change. I-PCPs are conventionally installed with a PSN in the tubing string and a corresponding set of seating rings in the pump assembly. While this method provides a reliable method of landing, it also requires that the PSN be originally installed and it limits the positioning of the pump to the associated pump-seating location. Weatherford’s Flexisert I-PCP anchor is an installation method that does not require a PSN to be in place. The impetus for the anchor’s development was the recompletion of depleted offshore gas lift wells to PCP systems. The anchor makes this possible because it allows the gas lift system to be left in place while inserting the new anchor. In general application, the I-PCP anchor allows I-PCPs to be run in wells that are not equipped with a PSN, or where the PSN is at the wrong location or has specifications that are unknown. The anchor system also provides an artificial-lift option to reactivate old wells without pulling the tubing.