Manual BM
Temas abordados
Manual BM
Temas abordados
Anchoring systems such as mechanical and cup anchors are designed to address various operational challenges in different wells. Mechanical systems provide robust fixation in deeper, high-pressure conditions, ensuring stability in pump operation. Cup anchors, more adaptable, absorb wellbore irregularities and are suitable for wells with consistent sand influx. Dual anchorage, albeit non-standard, combines these advantages, accommodating extreme conditions like deep sand-producing wells, thus ensuring both stability and adaptability in pump performance .
The mechanical pumping system operates by using a deep-seated pump controlled by a rod string. The piston movement during the upward and downward strokes is crucial. During the upward stroke, the travelling valve closes due to the fluid weight, allowing fluid to be displaced from the tubing to the surface; simultaneously, the pressure drop below the standing valve allows formation fluid into the pump. In the downward stroke, the pressure increases between the valves, opening the travelling valve and closing the standing valve, allowing the fluid to be lifted on the next upward stroke .
Valve types and configurations, such as foot valves and travelling valves, are essential for controlling fluid flow during pumping cycles. In the upward stroke, the travelling valve remains closed while the foot valve opens due to pressure decrease below it, allowing fluid into the chamber. Conversely, in the downward stroke, the foot valve closes, and the travelling valve opens under increased pressure, allowing fluid movement. These coordinated actions ensure efficient fluid lifting and prevent backflow, enhancing system reliability and reducing mechanical strain .
When deciding on the anchorage position for an insertable pump, considerations such as well depth and sand production are crucial. An upper anchorage is suited for wells prone to sand issues, whereas a lower anchorage is better for deeper wells or wells with significant total head. Dual anchorage, although not standardized by API, can be used in deep wells with sand production to leverage mechanical anchorage's robustness and cup anchorage's flexibility .
Torque factors are pivotal in understanding the mechanical performance of pumping units as they determine the rotational force needed to lift fluid. For each crank position, a different torque factor influences the load on the polished rod, affecting the gear reducer's torque. This knowledge is critical in optimizing energy efficiency, preventing mechanical failures, and ensuring the pumping unit's longevity by aligning operational parameters with mechanical capabilities .
Insertable pumps offer the advantage of not requiring the removal of the tubing for maintenance or replacement; they are installed through the tubing. Tubing pumps, on the other hand, do require the tubing to be moved when replacing the fixed assembly, though not for the mobile assembly. This difference makes insertable pumps more convenient for maintenance and adjustments without disturbing the overall production string, reducing downtime and operational costs .
Different piston types, such as ML, MP, or nickel-coated options, each provide specific advantages for handling varying fluid compositions and environmental conditions. ML pistons, with Ni powder coating, are more suited for general use due to their hardness. MP pistons, with Monel ends, offer superior corrosion resistance, ideal for corrosive fluids. Nickel-coated pistons provide protection against corrosion and are optimal in highly corrosive environments. The choice dictates a pump system's ability to efficiently transport fluid while maintaining mechanical integrity under specific environmental challenges .
The design characteristics of the barrel and piston, such as quality and surface finish, significantly impact pump efficiency. The gap between the barrel and piston is critical, forming a lubricant layer that reduces friction and wear, enhancing performance. Barrels are made from various materials and coatings to handle different abrasive and corrosive environments. For instance, a high-hardness chromed barrel is used for severe abrasion, while brass barrels handle low abrasion but high corrosion effectively. Pistons are similarly varied, with different materials like ML, MP, or MA selected based on mechanical resistance and corrosion protection needs. The precise surface finish helps maintain this gap and ensures optimal pump operation .
Pump barrels are made from seamless tubes with materials and coatings adapted to specific operational conditions. Common materials include regular steel for low abrasion and moderate corrosion, LF for moderate abrasion with higher tensile strength, and ACI or LAC for severe abrasion and/or corrosion, featuring coatings like chroming or other hardening treatments. The choices in materials and surface treatments directly relate to the environmental conditions, such as depth, pressure, abrasion, and corrosion levels, impacting durability and performance .
The gap between the barrel and piston is crucial for forming a lubricating layer that reduces friction and wear between moving parts. An optimized gap ensures minimal fluid leakage and enhances pump efficiency, directly impacting the system's mechanical integrity and operational longevity. A precise surface finish is necessary to maintain an ideal gap and ensure sustained optimal performance in varying operational conditions .