PCP System Shows Optimal Performance in a Heavy Oil Well in Block 59 Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this paper is to define the best artificial lift system for recovering heavy oil in Vinita Field, located in Block 59 of the Ecuadorian Oriente Basin. This field produces from reservoir “M-1” sandstone. The crude oil gravity of M-1 varies between 13.5 and 15.4 °API. In Vinita Field there have been three different types of artificial lift systems installed with local power generators. The amount of energy used in each lifting system is used as a factor in determining the most suitable lifting system for the wells in this oilfield. The fluid level of each well and other parameters for the simulation process are determined by pressure tests analysis. The flow simulation is an important step to get a better design and predict the future performance of an artificial lift system. The Inflow and Outflow curves are used to identify the optimal production levels and to determine the production capacity of the well. The Vinita-3 well used to produce by a hydraulic system. This had several mechanical failures resulting in production losses. The decision to implement the first progressive cavity pump completion (PCP) in Petroamazonas EP has been taken in order to reduce production losses and energy consumption. Vinita-3 is a directional well that presents several challenges for implementing a PCP system. All these challenges were satisfactorily overcome using optimal development of variables, getting optimal production and system performance. The initial investment to implement the PCP system was around 80% less than the investment required for other systems installed previously in the same well. The demand of energy consumption decreased from 53.7 Kw-hour to 8 Kw-hour. The PCP system was installed in June of 2014, and the system has been working with normality until today. The PCP system has had an optimal performance for lifting the heavy oil of Vinita-3 well and the energy required is less than the energy demanded by other lifting systems. The installation of PCP system in others wells with similar conditions to Vinita-3 can reduce energy demand from other companies that handle heavy oil wells.