Progressing Cavity Pump technology is the fastest evolving artificial lift technology in our industry. PCPs are highly efficient, have a higher tolerance to sand or solids than most other lift methods and are relatively inexpensive to install and operate. PCPs can now pump at rates in excess of 4000 bfpd, operate in high temperature environments, handle highly viscous crude, operate with TDH in excess of 6000ft, and produce in deviated wells. The participant will become familiar with the PCP system and where PCP technology may be applicable. All components of the PCP system will be described and discussed in detail. The key steps taken to ensure correct elastomer selection and rotor fit will be discussed. Design and analysis problems will be performed using standard industry software. Educational movie clips and photos will be used to illustrate key concepts, equipment principles, failure analysis and new technology. The attendee will learn the function of the various components, and the concerns about installation, operation, and removal of failed equipment. A manufacturing plant visit (location dependent) will be made to see the manufacture of a PCP pump. Design and operating philosophy solutions to common operating problems such as high solids content, CO2, high temperature, pump off conditions, gas, viscous crude etc will be discussed. The participant will be able to evaluate the design of a system for current and future conditions, analyze an installed system, and many other operational concerns of the PCP system. Automation concepts, system protection, SCADA control and alarming of key events will be discussed in order to understand how to identify and mitigate potential well or PCP problems resulting in lost production. The focus of the course will be on developing fit for purpose systems to ensure lowest total cost of operation and lowest $/bbl lift cost. The class will involve group exercises to facilitate and accelerate the learning process. Problems will be solved and discussed by the class members each day. Discussion is encouraged concerning experiences of successes and failures and consequent best practices. Although the course contains use of advanced computer programs for design and analysis, much of the material is devoted to best practices, which is usable by both engineers and technicians. One personal computer is supplied, at added cost, for every two participants.
Engineers and field technicians who are responsible for the selection, operation and maintenance of PCP systems.
You will Learn:
Participants will learn how to:
- Identify components of the PCP system
- Evaluate applicability compared to other artificial lift methods
- Design and analyze a system using up to date computer programs
- Combat gas, pump off, solids, corrosion and viscosity in the produced fluids
- Review a proposal from equipment suppliers
- Prolong system life by using best practices
- Diagnose and troubleshoot well and pump problems resulting in lost production
Course Content:
- Introduction to artificial lift and progressing cavity pumps
- Introduction for reservoir and production considerations
- Description of all components of the PCP
- Installation considerations and cautions
- Design of a PCP system to fit current and future well conditions
- Operation and monitoring the PCP system, set-up of system protection
- Diagnosis and troubleshooting of the PCP system
- Removal of failed equipment and failure analysis
- PCP instrumentation, automation and control
- Data storage and archival
- Maintenance and Monitoring
