Rev E Section 5
OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Contents Page
Introduction .................................................. 1
5.1 Artificial Lift Selection ................................... 1
5.2 Rod Pump .................................................... 5
5.2.1 Advantages/Disadvantages ............... 8
5.3 Gas Lift ......................................................... 8
5.3.1 Advantages/Disadvantages ............... 10
5.3.2 Gas Lift (Downhole) Equipment ........ 11
5.3.3 Gas Lift Systems ............................... 11
5.3.4 Design Considerations ...................... 20
Introduction
The primary purpose of installing an artificial lift system is
to maintain a reduced bottom hole pressure (drawdown)
to enable the desired reservoir fluids to be produced at an
acceptable rate.
Maintaining the required (optimal) flowing bottom hole
pressure is the design basis for all artificial lift installations,
i.e., the well system tubing performance curve (TPC) is
displaced downward (Fig. 1). If the appropriate drawdown
can be maintained the future management of the reservoir
and completion can be conducted efficiently.
An artificial lift system may be desirable for several
reasons. Any one, or combination, of the following factors
may provide justification for installation of an artificial lift
system.
• As compensation for declining reservoir pressure.
• Offsetting the effect of increasing water (liquid) produc-
tion in oil and gas wells.
• To overcome high friction pressures associated with the
production of viscous or waxy crudes, or with high flow
rates in restrictive production conduits.
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December 1996 Page 1 of 33
Contents Page
5.4 Electric Submersible Pump .......................... 21
5.4.1 ESP Components .............................. 21
5.4.2 Advantages/Disadvantages ............... 25
5.4.3 ESP Applications ............................... 26
5.5 Hydraulic Piston Pump ................................. 29
5.5.1 Advantages/Disadvantages ............... 30
5.6 Hydraulic Jet Pump ...................................... 30
5.6.1 Advantages/Disadvantages ............... 30
5.7 Plunger Lift ................................................... 31
5.7.1 Advantages/Disadvantages ............... 31
5.8 Other Systems ............................................. 33
• To kickoff high gas-liquid ratio wells that may die when
shut in.
• To reduce the effect of flowline back pressure against
which the well must produce.
Artificial lift is generally associated with oil wells. However,
there are a number of special applications which, al-
though less common, benefit significantly from the meth-
ods installed.
• Maintaining a production rate which minimizes wax or
scale deposition.
• Dewatering gas wells or in water production wells.
• Powered waterflood operations.
5.1 Artificial Lift Selection
Selection of an appropriate artificial lift method should
take account of two main considerations:
• Inflow performance of the well.
• Capacity and operation of the lift systems.
 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 2 of 33 December 1996

BOTTOMHOLE FLOWING PRESSURE

TPC under natural flow

Net lift (h or p lift)

(psi)

TPC under artificial lift

FLOWRATE (Total Liquid)

(STB/D)

Fig. 1. Effect of artifical lift on tubing performance curve (TPC).

The inflow performance is a function of the reservoir and A summary of common artificial lift systems, including a
various production characteristics, e.g., the efficiency of performance overview is shown in Figure 2 and 3.
the stimulation. Well systems analysis techniques and Additional factors considered during the selection/design
software are used to compare inflow performance with the process include:
expected performance of completions equipped with the
artificial lift options under review. The solutions for the • Capital cost
various completion and artificial lift option can then be
compared graphically (NODAL* analysis). • Operating cost

However, the analyses of completion and artificial lift
options can be extremely complex since there are often
many variables or unknown factors. For example, when
assessing the performance of a gas lift installation the
liquid/injection gas ratio is an unknown factor. Actual
design processes typically involve several design itera-
tions on sensitizing factors to enable the necessary level
of "confidence" to be attained.
• Servicing frequency (maintenance cost)
Although artificial lift systems may be installed later in the
life of a well or reservoir, there are clear benefits in
preparing for artificial lift when planning the construction
of a well. Relatively small modifications to the well configu-
ration can provide flexibility and enhancements which
benefit the long-term production capacity of a well. For
example, the following factors may be considered at time
of constructing the well and selecting/designing the comple-
tion tubulars:

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 COMMON ARTIFICIAL LIFT SYSTEMS

Artificial Common Normal Depth Rates Min BHP Potential

Lift System Applications Range (ft) (STB/D) (psi) Problem Areas

Rod pump Onshore wells 8000 2-1500 Wellhead Doglegs

Wells with low CIBHP (12,000) (<500) pressure Fatigue
Low PI wells High GLR
(<0.1 stb/d/psi) Sand

Continuous gas lift Offshore wells 12,000 10-50,000+ 0.05-0.15 Gas supply
Deviated wells psi/ft Hydrates
Deep wells Single wells
High GLR wells Casing design
Moderately productive Depletion
wells

Electrical subermsible High rate, low GLR wells 12,000 500-20,000 100 psi Casing size
pump (ESP) Water supply wells (5000) (500-10,000) Handling
High WOR wells BHT > 300ºF
Alternative to high rate Sand
Gas lift High GLR

Hydraulic piston pump Deep wells 12,000 10-2000 Wellhead Cleanliness

Low GLR wells (18,000) (<1,000) pressure Casing size
Deviated wells (<8500) (2000-8000) High THIP
Alternative to rod Triplex pumps

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ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS

pumps
OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS

Hydraulic jet pump Mod-low GLR wells 12,000 100-8000+ 20% net lift Casing size
Mod-good PI (5000) (25,000) High THIP
Deviated wells Fluid volume
Alternative to gas lift Triplex pumps

discussed with anyone outside the Schlumberger organisation.

Plunger lift Dewatering gas wells 12,000 1-500 100-500 psi Low GLR
High GLR/low rate oil Solids
Rev E

wells
December 1996

Screw pump Heavy oil wells 5,000 1-500 Wellhead BHT >250ºF
(<18º API) pressure High GLR

This manual section is a confidential document which must not be copied in whole or in part or
Shallow/light wells (1-1200)
Sandy wells (1-1400)
Section 5

Page 3 of 33

Fig. 2. Summary of common artificial lift systems.

 Section 5
Page 4 of 33

TYPICAL ARTIFICIAL LIFT PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

Service Relative
Frequency Service
(yrs/job) Cost Performance Ability
Rev E

>250ºF GLR High Wax Sand Corrosion Scale Visc Doglegs

December 1996

Rod Pump 1 L-M 5 3 3 3 3 4 3 2

Gas Lift 1.5 L 4 5 2 4 4 3 2 5

ESP
<150ºF 2
150-250ºF 1 H 2 3 4 2 2 3 2 3
>250ºF 0.5

Hydraulic
Jet 1.5 L 4 4 5 4 5 5 3 4

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Piston 0.5 M 4 2 4 2 4 2 5 4

Plunger 1 VL 4 5 4 1 2 1 1 5

Screw Pump 1 M 1 2 3 5 2 2 5 3

discussed with anyone outside the Schlumberger organisation.

ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS

H - High M - Medium L - Low VL - Very Low 5 - Excellent 1 - Poor

OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS

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Fig. 3. Comparison of common artificial lift system performance.
 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Well Construction
• The casing/liner size (ID) determines the size (OD) of
downhole equipment which may be installed, e.g., ESPs.
• Premium casing couplings are typically required for gas-
tight seals, e.g., for potential gas lift installations.
• Available sump space below the perforated interval for
pump (rod) equipment.
• Location of liners and permanent downhole equipment.
Completion Design
• Pre-installation of correctly spaced gas lift mandrels.
• Installation of tubulars with a bore compatible with
plunger lift equipment.
• Location and configuration of safety valve
Several types of artificial lift method are commonly avail-
able, typically in a range of sizes, capacities and configu-
rations.
• Rod pumps
• Gas lift
• Electrical submersible pump (ESP)
• Hydraulic pumps
• Rotating rod pumps
• Plunger lift
• Other specialized methods.
In the U.S.A., approximately 84% of wells on artificial lift
are rod pumped, 12% are on gas lift, 2% use ESPs and the
remaining methods (hydraulic piston, jet, plunger and
others) combined account for the remaining 2%. World-
wide, the type of lift system varies with region and type of
well. Gas lift and flowing wells are most common in new,
high production areas/fields, while a variety of artificial lift
systems are in use in depleted or low production fields and
wells.
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Rev E Section 5
December 1996 Page 5 of 33
5.2 Rod Pump
Rod pumps are configured with a downhole pump and
surface power source connected by a rod string. The
reciprocating pump assembly comprises relatively few
components (Figs. 4 and 5). The standing valve remains
stationary and allows flow from the wellbore to the pump
but stops reverse flow. The traveling valve is attached to
the rod string and therefore reciprocates with the string.
Upstroke – the traveling valve is closed, forming a low
pressure area beneath the plunger and drawing wellbore
fluid through the standing valve.
Downstroke – the plunger (containing the traveling valve)
moves through the liquid that has flowed into the pump.
The liquid, trapped by the standing valve, is forced through
the traveling valve, into the tubing. The new fluid pushes
all the other liquid in the tubing up by the volume of liquid
in the pump.
All pumps operate with some void space (space between
the top of the fluid and the top of the fluid chamber),
however, too much void can lead to equipment damage.
The void area may result from gas breakout or occur when
the pump (plunger) cycles faster than reservoir liquids can
flow into the pump. Free gas is generally vented up the
annulus.
Factors which influence the operation and efficiency of
rod pumps include oil viscosity, pump size and speed (vs.
inflow), restrictions in the equipment surrounding the
pump, and dissolved/free gas.
Wells producing viscous fluids require pumps equipped
with, large diameter valves, less restrictive pump open-
ings and slower pump speeds.
A test instrument (dynamometer), measure the forces on
the rod and is used to optimize the operation of the pump
and string. The dynamometer is attached to the polish rod
which is the uppermost rod in the string. The polished rod,
passes through the stuffing box and is attached by a
clamp and cable arrangement to the head of the beam
pumping unit.
 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 6 of 33 December 1996

Principal application(s)
Secondary recovery

Frequency of usage
Very common Rods

Principal advantages

• Rod pumps account for approximately

60% of onshore artificial lift completions.
Production tubing
• Industry accepted, economic in the cor-
rect application.

• Not gas dependent.

Principal disadvantages

• Limited efficiency, maintenance intensive

and require vertical wellbores.

• Well depth and deviation limitations.

Rod pump
• Sand sensitive

• Gas sensitive

• Wireline access not possible

• Requires surface power (diesel/electric)

Tubing anchor

Fig. 4. Rod pump general configuration (downhole)

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 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 7 of 33

Horse head

Walking beam

Bridle

Samson post
Pitman
Polished rod and
stuffing box
Prime mover
(e.g., electric, diesel
or gas engine) Flowline

Reduction gearbox with

crank and counterbalance

Fig. 5. Rod pump general surface configuration.

To minimize problems with rod pumped wells, several
basic considerations and facilities are necessary.
• A rathole below the perforations is useful for allowing
solids dropout and gas separation.
• A tension tubing anchor 100 to 200 ft above the pump will
reduce rod and tubing wear by keeping the tubing
straight during the pump cycle. Tubing which is not
anchored tends to twist with each pump cycle. Tubing
stretch on each pump downstroke will cause the tubing
collars to rub against the casing.
strings and requires larger rods. Sucker rods may buckle
if the force required to drive the plunger down is exces-
sive (e.g., 21lb for 5/8-in. rods and 41lb for 3/4-in. rods).
Buckling of the rods causes metal fatigue in the rods and
coupling/tubing wear that often leads to failure. To
reduce rod coupling and tubing abrasion, stiff, sinker
bars, or rod guides are often recommended.
• Design software is typically used to design the rod/pump
configuration since there are many variables which
should be considered, e.g., the well inflow performance,
fluid viscosity, well depth, and water cut.

• A gas anchor (gas separator) helps separate entrained
gas from the liquid to minimize gas locks in pumps.
• The pump covering (mud anchor) has numerous slots to
strain the fluids of damaging solids. It also prevents
damage to the pump if the tubing is inadvertently run into
the bottom of the hole.
• Selection of an appropriate rod string is dependent upon
depth and the buckling loads exerted on the downstroke.
Increasing depth places larger tensile loads on the rod
• Plunger/stroke length typically increases with depth.
Plunger lengths range from 3 ft in wells of 3000 ft to
lengths of 6 ft in wells of 6000 ft or deeper. Shorter
plungers can be used when lifting very viscous oil.
Leakage between the plunger and the working barrel
(slippage) is inversely proportional to plunger length,
and proportional to clearance in thousandths of an inch
cubed. Cutting the plunger length in half will double the
slippage. Increasing the clearance from 0.001 to 0.002
will increase slippage by a factor of eight.

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 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 8 of 33 December 1996
5.2.1 Advantages/ Disadvantages
Advantages
• System components are of a relatively simple design.
• Units can be easily transferred to other wells with
minimum cost.
• Equipment is relatively simple and easy for field people
to operate and maintain.
• Can be used in a range of wellbore applications, e.g.,
slim-hole or multiple completions.
• Can operate in very low reservoir pressures (depth and
rate dependent).
• System usually is naturally vented for gas separation and
fluid level soundings.
• Operating rate can be easily varied to optimize produc-
tion.
• Pump (completion) performance can be easily assessed.
• Compatible with high temperature and viscous fluids.
• Prime mover can be powered by gas, diesel or electricity.
• Corrosion and scale treatments are relatively easy to
perform.
• Electrically powered and controlled systems can be
automated for intermittent production.
• Pumps/systems are available in a range of sizes/capaci-
ties.
Disadvantages/Limitations
• Crooked wellbores can present a rod/tubing friction and
wear problem.
• Wells having a high solids production can be problem-
atic.
• Volumetric (pump) efficiency is reduced with free gas.
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• Systems are depth limited, primarily due to rod tensile
strength restrictions.
• Relatively large surface equipment is obtrusive in urban
locations and too heavy/bulky for offshore applications.
• Pump system is susceptible to paraffin problems.
• Tubing cannot be internally coated for corrosion protec-
tion.
• H2S limits depth at which a large volume pump can be
set.
• Downhole pump design constrained in small diameter
casing.
5.3 Gas Lift
Most liquids can be lifted by injecting gas into the liquid
stream near the bottom of the well. As the gas rises, the
gas bubbles expand, increasing the velocity of the fluid
and decreasing the effective fluid density. The amount of
gas required for efficient lift depends on many factors,
e.g., tubing diameter, liquid volume, liquid density, depth
and bottom hole pressure. In shallow wells, a single gas
injection may be sufficient, whereas in deeper wells a
number of lift points may be spaced out along the tubing
string.
Gas lift valves are spring loaded or pressure balanced
release valves which are set to open at specific operating
pressures, whereupon gas is allowed to pass from the
annulus into the tubing (Fig. 6). In effect, gas lift utilizes
an external source of high pressure gas to supplement
formation gas within the wellbore or production conduit.
The primary consideration in the design and selection of
a gas lift system for a well field, is the availability and cost
of gas at the desired pressure and volume.
Gas lift is particularly suitable for applications where high
pressure gas is readily available. High pressure gas wells
can be an economical source of high pressure gas.
Alternatively, gas compressors, for gas injection or as
sales gas booster compressors, may be available. In
general, the cost of gas compression/processing far ex-
ceeds the cost of subsurface gas lift equipment. Conse-
quently, gas lift should be the first consideration when an
adequate volume of high pressure gas is available.
 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 9 of 33

Principal application(s)
Primary/Secondary recovery

Frequency of usage
Very common Production tubing

Principal advantages

• Gas lift accounts for approximately 90% of

offshore artificial lift completions.
Production tubing
• System may be designed to suit most
wells.

• Wireline serviceable.

• Few mechanical parts.

• Sand and fill tolerant.

Gas lift valve installed in
Principal disadvantages side pocket mandrel

• Requires gas source and possibly com-

pression.

• Gas lift valves require frequent servicing/

replacement.

Retrievable packer

No-go seating nipple

Wireline entry guide

Fig. 6. Gas lift general configuration (downhole).

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 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 10 of 33 December 1996

Most wells can be depleted by gas lift, especially if used as
part of a reservoir pressure maintenance program. A high
degree of flexibility, in terms of production rates and
required depth of lift can be achieved if adequate injection
gas pressure and volume are available. In addition, gas lift
will normally operate, to some extent, if design parameters
have been incorrectly assessed or if wellbore/reservoir
conditions change significantly. Many successful gas lift
installations (with wireline retrievable gas lift valve man-
drels) have been completed with minimal well information.
Deviated wellbores that produce sand and have a high
formation/liquid ratio are excellent candidates for gas lift.
Many installations are designed to increase production
from naturally flowing wells.
• Compatible with crooked and deviated wellbores.
• System not normally adverse to corrosion.
• Applicable offshore.
• The initial equipment costs are lower than many other
artificial lift methods.
• Maintenance operations and equipment repairs are less
costly than for most other artificial lift methods.
• Simplified well completion.
Disadvantages

Gas lift is ideally suited for through-flow-line (TFL) applica-
tions (offshore). Maximum production is possible by gas
lift from a well with small casing and with high deliverability
and bottomhole pressure. The most important limitation of
gas lift operation is the lack of formation gas or the
availability of an outside source of gas. Other limitations
include wide well spacing and lack of space for compres-
sors on offshore platforms.
• Lift gas is not always available at required pressure or
volume.
• Not efficient in small fields or single well applications
(especially if compression equipment is required).
• May not be efficient in applications with emulsions and
viscous crudes.

5.3.1 Advantages/Disadvantages
Advantages
• Production system/conduit can handle large volumes of
solids with minor problems.
• System (continuous lift) can handle large volumes in high
PI wells (50,000 BLPD + 7949.37 m3/d).
• Flexible components, e.g., can be converted from con-
tinuous to intermittent to chamber or plunger lift as the
well or reservoir declines.
• Under certain conditions, gas freezing and hydrates may
present problems.
• Surface gas lines (and system) must be clean.
• Widely spaced wells may incur significant pipeline/and
servicing cost.
• System may be difficult to supervise without engineering
support.
• Deep wells cannot be efficiently produced to abandon-
ment.

• Unobtrusive in urban locations. • Rotative systems still require makeup gas supply.

• Power source (compressor) can be remotely located.
• Easy to obtain downhole pressures and gradients for
reservoir management.
• Compatible with high gas cut wells.
• Casing and surface equipment (feed) must be capable
of withstanding lift pressure.
• High pressure gas applications carry inherent risks and
safety concerns.

• Serviceable with wireline unit (by design).

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 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
5.3.2 Gas Lift (Downhole) Equipment
The analyses and design for any gas lift installation is a
complex process which requires a full understanding of
the operating characteristics gas lift valves and associ-
ated equipment. When an installation is properly de-
signed and installed, all valves above the operating valve(s)
will be closed and all valves below will be open (continu-
ous flow).
The first gas lift systems to be installed held the gas lift
valve and reverse check valve was part of the tubing
string. Consequently, it was necessary to pull the tubing
to replace or service the gas lift valves.
The first selectively retrievable gas lift valve and mandrel
were patented in 1948. The valve mandrel is designed
with a pocket (often called a receiver) in the mandrel. The
gas lift valve can be installed or removed by wireline
operations, i.e., it is not necessary to pull the tubing string.
A kick-over tool is used to selectively locate the mandrel
pocket. The housing, or assembly, is known as a sidepocket
mandrel because the valve receiver is offset from the
centerline of the tubing. Most sidepocket mandrels have
a full bore ID equal to the tubing drift ID. Conventional
wireline operations, including pressure surveys, running
and pulling locks for selective nipples etc. can be con-
ducted through the side-pocket mandrel (see Section 6 –
Completion Components).
The availability of a reliable wireline retrievable system
revolutionized the application of gas lift as an artificial lift
technique. Advanced retrievable valve mandrels have
orienting devices and profiles to ensure successful opera-
tion in highly deviated wells (within normal wireline opera-
tion limits).
5.3.3 Gas Lift Systems
There are two basic categories of gas lift application:
• Continuous flow gas lift – typically installed in wells
producing high fluid rates. For example, rates of up to
75,000 bbl liquid/day (or more, in ideal conditions) can
be lifted through large tubing sizes or in casing flow
applications. In small diameter tubing, it is possible to
use continuous flow gas lift to efficiently produce rates of
50 bbl liquid/day (or less in special circumstances).
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Rev E Section 5
December 1996 Page 11 of 33
• Intermittent gas lift – high pressure gas is injected into
the fluid column to produce a slug of fluid. When the fluid
reaches surface, gas injection ceases. As the tubing
pressure bleeds off to the separator/flowline, formation
fluids begin to enter the tubing string. The cycle is
repeated after sufficient fluid has entered the wellbore.
Intermittent lift is used in wells producing relatively low
rates, usually less than 250 blpd.
Continuous Flow Gas Lift
If possible, most wells are gas lifted by continuous flow.
This can be considered an extension of natural flow by
supplementing the formation gas with additional high
pressure gas from an outside source. Gas is injected
continuously into the production conduit at a maximum
depth based on the available injection gas pressure.
Injection gas mixes with the produced well fluids and
decreases the flowing pressure gradient of the mixture
from the point of gas injection to the surface. Lowering the
flowing pressure gradient reduces the bottomhole pres-
sure to establish the drawdown required for an acceptable
production rate. If insufficient drawdown (under flowing
conditions) is not possible by continuous flow, intermittent
gas lift operation should be considered.
Continuous flow gas lift should be considered for the
following applications.
• Wells that are incapable of natural flow.
• As a means of increasing the production rate in a
naturally flowing well.
• Unloading a well that will later flow naturally.
• Removing or unloading fluids from low rate gas wells, or
to keep the gas well unloaded (typically intermittent, but
can be continuous).
• Back flowing salt water disposal wells to remove sands
and other solids that can plug the perforations.
• Water source wells where large volumes of water are
required for water flood applications.
 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 12 of 33 December 1996

Production tubing Production tubing

Unloading valve Unloading valve

Unloading valve Unloading valve

Operating gas lift valve Operating gas lift valve

(OGLV) (OGLV)

Standing valve
(check valve)

Continuous lift configuration Intermittent lift configuration

Fig. 7. Gas lift valve operation.

Following the initial completion or workover of a well, the
fluid level in the casing and tubing will typically be at or
near the surface. The available gas pressure is generally
not sufficient to unload fluid to the desired depth for
continuous gas injection (i.e. the hydrostatic pressure of
fluid in the well at the desired depth of injection is greater
than the available gas pressure at the depth of injection).
Consequently, a series of unloading gas lift valves are
installed at intervals in the production tubing (Fig 7). The
valves open sequentially using the available gas injection
pressure until the final (continuous) injection point is
reached. The valve locations are spaced out following
calculations which consider the density of the fluid(s),
injection gas pressure, tubing size and wellhead pres-
sure.
Intermittent Gas Lift
Intermittent gas lift provides a displacement lift mecha-
nism. A liquid slug is displaced by high pressure gas
injected into the production conduit. Intermittent gas lift
requires a high instantaneous gas volume to fill the tubing
and effect efficient displacement.
The primary disadvantages of intermittent lift results from
the “on-off” requirement for high pressure gas. This may
require special surface storage or distribution facilities.
The resultant surging in bottomhole pressure is undesir-
able in some cases, e.g., sand producing formations.

The illustrations in Figures 8 through 14 show the unload-

ing sequence from start-up to continuous gas lift opera-
tions.

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 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 13 of 33

PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve open

2000

2nd valve open 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000

12000

14000

The fluid level in the casing and tubing is surface, no gas is being injected, no fluid is being produced and there is no inflow
from the perforations. All gas lift valves are open.

Fig. 8. Gas lift valve operation (1).

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 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 14 of 33 December 1996

PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve open

2000

2nd valve open 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000

12000

14000

Shut-in BHP

Gas injection into the casing has commenced, fluid is being produced at surface but formation fluids are not yet being
produced because the wellbore pressure is still greater than the formation pressure. Fluid from the casing is passing
through the gas lift valves requiring that care be taken not to erode the valve by initiating lift too quickly.

Fig. 9. Gas lift valve operation (2).

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 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 15 of 33

PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve open

2000

2nd valve open 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000 Flowing
BHP
Shut-in
12000
BHP

14000

Drawdown

Fluid has been unloaded down to the top gas lift valve allowing gas to enter the tubing. The reduced tubing pressure
encourages fluid flow through the second and third gas lift valves and also initiates flow from the perforated interval. The
"U-tubing" of fluid from casing to tubing continues.

Fig. 10. Gas lift valve operation (3).

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PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve open

2000

2nd valve open 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000

Shut-in
12000 BHP

14000
Flowing
BHP
Drawdown

Fluid has been unloaded down to the second gas lift valve allowing gas to enter the tubing at two points. The drawdown
increases as the differential pressure in the tubing string is reduced. All valves are open and the lower two valves continue
to pass casing fluid.

Fig. 11. Gas lift valve operation (4).

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PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve closed

2000

2nd valve open 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000

Shut-in
12000 BHP

14000
Flowing
BHP
Drawdown

The top gas lift valve closes directing all injected gas through the second gas lift valve. Valve closure is controlled by casing
or tubing pressure which is selected and calibrated at time of installation.

Fig. 12. Gas lift valve operation (5).

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PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve closed

2000

2nd valve open 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000

Shut-in
12000 BHP

14000
Flowing
BHP
Drawdown

Casing fluid has been removed as far as the third valve. As the point of injection becomes deeper, the drawdown is
increased as a result of reduced hydrostatic pressure within the tubing string. An increase in drawdown will result in an
increased inflow and production rate.

Fig. 13. Gas lift valve operation (6).

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PRESSURE (psi)
1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000

Top valve closed

2000

2nd valve closed 4000

6000
DEPTH (ft)

3rd valve open

8000

4th valve open

10000

Shut-in
12000 BHP

14000
Flowing
BHP Drawdown

The second gas lift valve closes (as a result of reduced pressure) directing all injection gas through the third valve. In this
example the third valve will be the operating valve, i.e., during normal operations in stabilized flow, it will be the valve
passing gas. Under such stable flow conditions the inflow performance of the reservoir will match the tubing performance.
The fourth gas lift valve will remain submerged until operating conditions or reservoir conditions change, i.e., it provides
some contingency in the event deeper gas injection is required.

Fig. 14. Gas lift valve operation (7).

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Rotative Gas Lift System
Most gas lift systems are designed to recirculate the lift
gas. Low pressure gas from the production separator is
compressed and reinjected into the wellbore system.
Additional produced gas may be processed for sale,
disposed or stored. Such a closed loop system is referred
to as a rotative gas lift system.
Continuous flow gas lift installations are best designed as
closed rotative systems since constant injection requires
a stable system to be efficient. Intermittent gas lift opera-
tions are particularly difficult to regulate and operate.
Particularly in small closed rotative systems with limited
gas storage capacities.
Closed Gas Lift System
Closed gas lift installations include a packer and standing
valve in the completion. Installations without standing
valves are referred to as semi-closed. This configuration
is widely used for continuous flow operations.
The majority of tubing flow gas lift installations include a
packer to stabilize the fluid level in the casing annulus
after the well is unloaded. Packers are installed in low
flowing bottomhole pressure wells to prevent injection gas
from blowing around the lower end of the tubing.
Open Gas Lift System
Installations without a packer or standing valve are open
installations. Such a configuration is seldom recommended
unless the well has a flowing bottomhole pressure that
significantly exceeds the injection gas pressure, or packer
removal may be difficult because of sand, scale, etc.
Casing flow applications require an open installation
design since the production conduit is the casing annulus.
Most intermittent gas lift installations will include a packer
and possibly a standing valve. If the permeability of the
well is very low, a standing valve may not be needed.
The advantages of packer (closed) configurations are
particularly important for gas lift installations where the
injection gas line pressure varies or the injection gas
supply is periodically interrupted. If the installation does
not include a packer, the well may require to be unloaded
or partially unloaded after each shutdown.
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More damage to gas lift valves occurs during unloading
operations than at any other time. In an open installation,
the working fluid level changes as the injection gas line
pressure varies. The resulting liquid action through the
valves below the working fluid level can eventually fluid-
cut the seat assemblies.
A packer stabilizes the working fluid level, thus eliminating
the need for unloading after a shutdown, plus the fluid
washing action from a varying injection gas line pressure
is eliminated.
5.3.4 Design Considerations
The following design and selection factors should be
considered for gas lift installations.
• Continuous flow systems reduce pressure surges in
flowing bottomhole pressure, flowline system and the
high/low pressure separator systems, i.e., a continuous
flow system is typically more stable.
• Over-design rather than under-design of the gas lift valve
spacing is recommended if well data are questionable or
insufficient.
• The subsurface gas lift equipment is the least expensive
portion of a closed rotative gas lift system.
• Larger OD gas lift valves are recommended for lifting
high rate wells. The higher throughput capability of 1-1/
2 in. OD gas lift valve as compared to the 1-in. OD valve
is significant for gas lift installations requiring a high rate
of gas injection.
• Installation designs should include safety factors to
compensate for errors in well information and to allow for
an increase in the injection gas pressure to fully open the
gas lift valves.
• A large bore seating nipple, suitable for receiving a lock,
should be included near the lower end of the tubing in
most installations. A standing valve for testing the tubing
and the gas lift valve checks may be located in the
nipple. In addition, a standing valve may be needed for
later conversion to an intermittent gas lift system. A
wireline lock also provides the means to secure and
pack-off a bottomhole pressure gauge for conducting
pressure transient tests, etc.
 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 21 of 33

5.4 Electric Submersible Pump

Electric submersible pumps are multistage centrifugal

pump assemblies driven by an electric motor. Each stage
comprises an impeller and diffuser assembly which im- Armored cable
parts energy to the fluid and directs it to the intake of the
following pump stage. Pump stages are typically 3 to 5-in. Cable guard
in length. Complete pump assemblies may contain up to
500 stages.

In the majority of ESP installations, the downhole assem- Sliding sleeve

bly is landed above the perforations with the motor located
at the bottom of the BHA. This configuration enables the
heat generated by the motor to be dissipated through the
fluid. If the assembly is located below the perforations, a Dual string retrievable
shroud is required to direct flow around the motor. packer (modified)

Since the pump rotates at very high speeds (typically in

the range of 2900 to 3500 RPM) problems can result in the
presence of formation solids (sand) or fluids likely to
cause emulsions (oil/water). If such conditions exist, the
wellbore conditions and fluid characteristic should be
evaluated.

5.4.1 ESP Components

Each ESP installation comprises several downhole and

surface components (Fig. 15). Sliding sleeve

Downhole

• Three-phase electric motor

No-go seating nipple
• Seal section (or protector)

• Rotary or reverse flow gas separator (optional)

• Multistage centrifugal pump assembly Pump assembly (various)

• Power cable(s) Pump

Intake
Surface Protector
Motor
• Three-phase transformer

• Motor controller (switch gear)

• Wellhead pack-off/penetrator (for power cable access Fig. 15. Electric submersible pump general configu-
through wellhead equipment). ration (downhole)

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ESP SIZE AND CAPACITY RANGES

Casing Pump Motor Typical Max TDH

Size OD OD Rate Power Capacity
(in) (in) (in) (stb/d) (HP) (ft)

4.5 3.38 3.75 100-1900 50-125 5000-12-000

5.5 4.0 4.50 200-5000 100-300 5000-12000

7.0 5.62 5.43 1000-16000 200-650 5000-12000

8.625 6.75 7.38 4000-26000 400-850 3000-10000

10.75 8.62 N/A 12000-33000 500-1020 2000-5000

13.375 11.25 N/A 24000-100000 500-1030 2000-3500

Fig. 16. Typical ESP specifications and capacities.

Shaft
Electric submersible pump systems are available in a
Impeller
wide range of sizes, suitable for casing/liners from 4-1/2-
in. to 13-3/8-in. and with liquid production rates from 150
to 100,000 BPD. In most installations the largest pump
that can be physically located within the casing string is
preferred. Pump capacities increase significantly with
increases in OD (Fig. 16)

ESP Pump Stage

Pump
The centrifugal pump assembly is comprises multiple Stage
units or stages each containing of an impeller and a
diffuser (Fig. 17). The impeller is attached to, and rotates
with the pump shaft. The diffuser is held stationary within
the pump housing. The impeller typically has 7 to 9 curved
“vanes” which are designed to impart smooth motion to
the fluid as it is forced from the entrance (or eye) of the
impeller to the outside edge. The specific impeller design
is determined by the desired flow rate and discharge head
characteristics, and pump geometry (available diameter).
The impeller imparts kinetic energy to the fluid which is Diffuser
directed through the diffuser, converting the kinetic en-
ergy into potential energy or head. Head is the term given
to the height to which a pump stage will “lift” the fluid. Since Fig. 17. ESP stage components.

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the ESP is a dynamic displacement pump, the pressure
differential or head is a function of the output flowrate.
The geometry of a pump stage determines the maximum
volume of fluid that can pass through it. For example, if
one pump stage can produce 2000 BPD, two stages will
not produce 4000 BPD. Combined they will still only
produce 2000 BPD, i.e., pump stage flowrate is constant
not additive. However, the head produced by a pump
stage must be considered differently. If one stage pro-
duces 45 feet, two stages in series will produce 90 feet,
i.e., head is additive. The total dynamic head (TDH)
developed by a pump is approximately the sum of head
developed by each stage (derived from manufacturers
published data).
Note: the net vertical lift relates to the dynamic fluid level,
not the location of the pump intake, i.e., it is the vertical
height difference between the natural and pumped pro-
duction level.
Pump Intake
Two basic types of intakes are available: standard intakes
and gas separator intakes. Gas separator intakes can be
further categorized as static or dynamic.
A standard pump intake has no effect on gas separation
and is only applicable in applications have little or no gas,
since the system relies on natural separation of fluids in
the wellbore.

The total dynamic head of a pump system must be
sufficient to achieve adequate flow (and pressure) to
surface and is simplified as a sum of three basic compo-
nents:
• Height (net vertical lift) which the fluid must be lifted
• Friction loss in the tubing string
• Wellhead pressure (back pressure) against which the
pump must operate.
A static gas separator (Fig. 18) relies on the intake
geometry and resulting fluid flow for separation. The most
efficient means of separation is the dynamic or rotary
separator. This is configured similar to a centrifuge whereby
the rotating paddles cause heavier fluids to be forced
outward while light gaseous fluid remains toward the
center of the intake. Crossover guides direct the fluid into
the pump stage intake and the gas to a bypass. Free gas
is typically vented to the annulus.

Gas bubble vented to annulus

Gas free fluid directed to
pump stage inlet
Casing, liner or shroud

Gaseous fluid

Intake body

Fig. 18. Reverse flow ESP intake gas separator.

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Motor Seal section or Protector

The ESP is driven by a three phase, two pole induction
motor, the horsepower of which must be matched to the
pump section and production parameters of the installa-
tion.
The characteristics of a pump are based on constant
rotation speed, which is determined by the frequency of
the AC supply, e.g., 3500 RPM at 60 Hz or 2915 RPM at
50 Hz . However, the performance of a motor changes
with load resulting in nonlinear output curves.
The motor/cable connection is made through the “pothead”.
The majority of electrical failures occur at connections
(both downhole and surface), consequently the pothead
assembly and checking processes must be completed
carefully to ensure maximum reliability.
The protector connects the motor shaft to the pump shaft
and houses thrust bearings which act against the thrust
applied by the pump, i.e., in moving fluid upward the pump
components are subject to an opposing downward force.
A positive seal elastomer bag or labyrinth chamber is
incorporated in the protector to balance the internal motor
pressure with the annular pressure. The lower portion of
the unit is filled with clean motor oil which is where the
thrust bearing and runner are located.
Pump Sizing
The ability of an ESP installation to deliver fluids at an
optimal rate depends on the following factors:
• The inflow characteristics of the well.

Head Capacity Recommended

operating
PUMP DYNAMIC HEAD

range
90

HORSEPOWER REQUIREMENT
80
PUMP EFFICIENCY
70
(ft)

60

50
(%)

(%)

Horsepower
40

30

20

10
Pump Efficiency

FLOWRATE (Total Liquid)

(STB/D)

Fig. 19. Typical ESP design/performance curve

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• Reservoir pressure providing sufficient suction pressure
(typically 100 to 200 psi) for the pump, i.e., to prevent
cavitation.
• Surface back pressure against which the pump must
operate.
• Provision of an electrical supply at the correct frequency.
ESP installations are designed to function within relatively
narrow operating ranges, i.e., typically within +25% of the
optimum rate (Fig.19). Efficiency is rapidly reduced if the
pump operation falls out of design range. Consequently,
it is essential that accurate data be used in the installation
design and selection process.
Additional equipment can be installed, e.g., variable fre-
quency drives (VFD), which enable the operating range to
be extended. However, this increases the capital cost
significantly and results in a more complex completion
installation which may be ultimately less reliable.
In general, the largest diameter pump which can be fitted
in the intended application should be selected. The
advantages of this approach include improved efficiency,
especially in handling gas and more viscous fluids. In
addition, higher horsepower motors can be used. Disad-
vantages include lower pressure capability and increased
down-thrust. Also, larger pump assemblies leave fewer
options for annular bypass or “Y” tools.
The following design and operating factors can effect the
performance and overall reliability of the ESP system.
• Pump start-ups and restarts should be kept to a mini-
mum. For the most efficient application of ESP the
system should be left running in relatively constant
operating conditions.
• Heat removal (from motor) should be a design factor,
especially in hot (>250+F) applications. A shroud may
be required to achieve sufficient fluid velocity around the
motor (typically >1ft/sec).
• Long shafts (and connections between motor/protector/
pump) may be subjected to unacceptable bending
stresses in deviated or crooked wellbores.
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• Modified completion equipment (tubing hangers, pack-
ers and wellheads) are required to accommodate the
power cable.
The main problem associated with ESP installations is
short runtimes, i.e., time to failure of some part of the
system. Since almost all components are located down-
hole, there can be significant costs incurred from servicing
time and loss of production. The most common ESP
failures result from one or more of the following factors.
• Poor handling procedures while running retrieving down-
hole equipment.
• Poor installation design or changing conditions causing
pump to operate outside the recommended range.
• Cable insulation incompatible with operating conditions
(temperature, fluid type etc.).
• Presence of excess free gas.
• Sand scale or corrosion related problems.
• Excessive stop/start cycling.
5.4.2 ESP Advantages/Disadvantages
Advantages:
• High fluid volume capability.
• Unobtrusive in urban locations.
• Simple to operate and monitor (remotely if necessary).
• Can be fitted with downhole pressure sensor (data
transmission via power cable).
• Compatible with crooked or deviated wellbores and
offshore applications.
• Corrosion and scale treatments are relatively easy to
perform.
• Available in a range of sizes and capacities.
• Lifting cost for high volumes ($/bbl) typically very low.
 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 26 of 33 December 1996

Disadvantages 5.4.3 ESP Applications

• Not generally compatible with multiple completions.
• Only applicable where electric power is available.
• High voltages (1000 V) carry intrinsic risk.
• Impractical in shallow low or volume wells.
• Equipment changes may be required to match declining
well capability (cost).
• Power cable causes complicates tubing handling/run-
ning procedures.
The electrical submersible pump is a versatile downhole
pumping system which can be configured to suit a variety
of pumping applications. However, the majority of ESP
installations are similar to that illustrated in Figure 20. The
flexibility of ESP systems are illustrated in Figures 21
through 24.
A relatively recent installation technique utilizes a “cable
deployed” or “coiled tubing deployed” pumping system.
This allows installation and retrieval of an ESP unit without
the need for a workover rig and enabling reduced operat-
ing and mobilization times.

• Cable insulation deteriorates in high temperatures.

• System is depth limited (+10,000 ft) due to cable cost and

inability to provide sufficient power downhole.

• System not compatible with gas and solids production.

• Installation design requires some specialist knowledge.

• Relatively narrow operating range (rate).

• Downhole components (and cable) are relatively large, The "standard" ESP configura-
therefore large casing/liners are required. tion requires the motor to be
set above the perforations,
• Cannot be set below fluid entry (perforations) unless allowing excess heat to be
shroud to route fluid over the motor is fitted (cooling). disapated in the produced
fluid.
• Entire system is downhole, therefore, problems and
maintenance require the unit to be retrieved from the
wellbore.

Fig. 20. "Standard" ESP installation.

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A variation on the standard

application uses a “shroud” to
divert fluid past the motor prior An ESP can also be used in
to entering the pump to ensure booster applications where a
adequate cooling. This may very high boost pressure is re-
be done in low flow rate wells quired. Low pressure fluid en-
for large casing sizes to in- ters the casing annulus and is
crease the flow velocity. Such diverted past the motor where
a configuration may also be it then enters the pump and
required in applications where exits the tubing head at the
the pump (and motor) is set required pressure. This type of
below perforations. application is especially useful
in populated areas due to the
The shroud effectively places lack of surface equipment or
the intake at the bottom of the noise.
assembly and is useful in de-
watering applications or where
setting the intake as low as
possible is desirable.

Fig. 21. ESP shroud. Fig. 22. Boosting production pressure.

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By effectively inverting the pump

Inter-zone injection is possible
assembly, the pump discharge
using a bottom discharge as-
is located at the bottom allow-
sembly, thereby allowing in-
ing low or high pressure injec-
jection of a produced fluid
tion. Injection fluid can be sup-
within the same wellbore. In-
plied via either the casing annu-
verting the configuration en-
lus or the tubing (or both). If
ables production from a lower
injection fluid is supplied through
low pressure zone to be di-
the tubing string, a perforated
rected (injected) into a zone
tubing joint located above the
further up the wellbore. In each
unit will admit the fluid into the
case a packer is required.
annulus just above the motor.

Fig. 23. Injection booster. Fig. 24. Interzone injection.

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5.5 Hydraulic Piston Pump
A hydraulic piston pump is a close coupled engine/pump
assembly, which is similar in operation to a steam engine.
Internal valves and shuttle timing mechanisms control the
pump cycles and flow of power fluid through the pump
(Fig.25).
The piston pump is a positive displacement pump, the
performance of which is determined by the pump/engine
size (diameter) ratio, i.e., a large engine and small pump
configuration will provide more dynamic head capacity
than a small engine and large pump. Single or double
action pumps are available in a range of stroke length (12
- 24-in. stroke). Pump speed (strokes/minute) is con-
trolled by the supply rate of the power fluid.

Production tubing Production tubing

Power fluid conduit – may not Power fluid conduit – may

be required if annulus can be not be required if annulus
used as a safe and reliable can be used as a safe and
conduit for (a) power fluid, or reliable conduit for (a)
(b) co-mingled production. power fluid, or (b) co-
mingled production.

Standing valve Jet pump throat

Piston pump assembly Nozzle

Standing valve

Piston pump – typical configuration Jet pump – typical configuration

Fig. 25. Hydraulic pumping systems general configuration.

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5.5.1 Advantages/Disadvantages
Advantages
• Systems can lift large volumes from great depths (e.g.,
500 BOD from 15,000 ft).
• Compatible with crooked and deviated wellbores.
• Unobtrusive in urban locations.
• Power source can be remotely located.
• Operation and efficiency are easy to assess.
• Operating parameters can be easily varied to optimize
production as the production capability of the well de-
clines.
• Gas, diesel or electricity can be used as a power source.
• Downhole equipment can be circulated out in free
systems.
• System can be used to advanced state of depletion.
• Can be used with multiple completions.
• Closed system will combat corrosion.
• Intermittent operation possible.
• Can be used with hollow sucker rods for slim hole
completions or inhibitor treatments.
Disadvantages
• Systems using oil as a power fluid present a significant
fire hazard.
• Safety and environmental hazards associated with high
pressure power oil in surface facilities.
• Large oil inventory required in power oil system.
• Not compatible with applications having a high solids
production.
• Operating costs can be relatively high.
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• Susceptible to gas interference – system not usually
normally vented.
• Scale treatments below the packer are difficult.
• Not easy for field personnel to troubleshoot – requires
specialist assistance.
• Valid well test data is difficult to acquire, especially in low
volume wells.
• Requires two fluid conduits – two tubing strings if annulus
cannot be used.
• Power fluid (water) must be compatible with reservoir
fluid(s).
5.6 Hydraulic Jet Pump
A jet pump imparts energy to the production fluid using a
power fluid directed through a venturi system. In effect,
the momentum of one fluid is used to move another, so
there are no moving parts required. The venturi system
comprises three components which (in some cases) can
be sized/selected to provide the appropriate energy input
for each installation (Fig. 11).
The jet pump is relatively tolerant of lower quality power
and produced fluids, i.e., when compared with other
hydraulic pumping applications.
5.6.1 Advantages/Disadvantages
Advantages
• System components can be retrieved/replaced without
the requirement for pulling the production tubing.
• System components and installation are relatively inex-
pensive.
• Tubing and downhole components are kept clean of
paraffin, scale etc.
• Applicable for high GLR wells.
• Can be used in conjunction with intermittent gas lift.
• Can be used to unload liquid from gas wells.
 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 31 of 33

• Water can be used as a power fluid.
• Power fluid condition less critical than for hydraulic piston
pumping.
• Treatments for corrosion, scale and emulsion are easy
to apply.
(power gas) has been produced, the well is shut-in and the
plunger allowed to fall to bottom. The cycle is then
repeated.
Plunger lift efficiency decreases with depth and PI, but can
be more effective in larger tubing sizes (where liquid
slippage is more prevalent).

• Power source (injection pumps) can be remotely lo- 5.7.1 Advantages/Disadvantages

cated.
Advantages
Disadvantages
• System components can be retrieved/replaced without
• Relatively inefficient lift method, i.e., high energy input the requirement for pulling the production tubing.
required.
• System has no moving parts (other than plunger).
• Requires at least 20% submergence (at pump) for
acceptable efficiency. • Compatible with crooked or deviated wellbores.

• System design can be complex and will require specialist • Unobtrusive in urban locations and is applicable off-
knowledge. shore.

• Pump may cavitate under certain conditions. Disadvantages

• Pump efficiency is sensitive to back pressure variations. • System may not be capable of producing well to deple-
tion.
• Free gas produced through the pump significantly re-
duces efficiency. • Applicable on low rate wells only (typically < 200 BPD)

• Large volumes of high-pressure power fluid are re- • Requires engineering/specialist supervision.
quired.
• Danger of surface equipment damage if plunger travels
• Systems using oil as a power fluid present a fire hazard too quickly due to incorrect setting.
around surface equipment.
• Communication between tubing and casing required.
• Dual fluid conduits are required. Safety or corrosion
concerns may preclude the annulus as a suitable con-
duit.

5.7 Plunger Lift

Plunger lift is suited to high GLR wells that produce

relatively little liquid (500 stb/day). The system requires
some capacity for gas storage and high rate supply. In
many applications, the tubing/casing annulus is used for
storage purposes.

Gas energy is used to drive a plunger (piston) carrying a

small slug of liquid to surface (Fig. 26). When the tail gas

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 Section 5 Rev E OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
Page 32 of 33 December 1996

Valve manifold

Plunger catcher
Time cycle intermitter
or high-low pressure
controller

Fullbore master valve

Production/separation

Injection gas
(if required)

Principal application(s)
Primary or secondary recovery

Frequency of usage Liquid load

Infrequent

Principal advantages Plunger

• Can be installed without pulling the

production string

• Relatively inexpensive

Principal disadvantages

• Cannot fully deplete well

Retrievable tubing stop
• Requires engineering supervision for
installation and operation
Retrievable standing
valve

Retrievable tubing stop

Fig. 26. Plunger lift general configuration.

CONFIDENTIALITY

This manual section is a confidential document which must not be copied in whole or in part or
discussed with anyone outside the Schlumberger organisation.
 OIL AND GAS WELL COMPLETIONS Rev E Section 5
ARTIFICIAL LIFT COMPLETIONS
December 1996 Page 33 of 33

5.8 Other Artificial Lift Systems

Special lift equipment has been developed and modified

for many specific applications. In addition to the systems
outlined above several, less common systems have been
installed.

• Screw pump

Screw pumps, or progressive cavity pumps operate on

the same principle (in reverse) as PDM Moineau motors.
A rod string, similar to sucker rods, is used to rotate the
pump rotor.

• Turbine pump

Turbine pumps are similar to ESP installations but use

a power fluid and turbine to power a downhole centrifu-
gal pump.

CONFIDENTIALITY

This manual section is a confidential document which must not be copied in whole or in part or
discussed with anyone outside the Schlumberger organisation.