Ejectors for Boosting Low-Pressure Oil Wells

Abstract

Summary The first field installation of a multiphase surface ejector was successfully accomplished in the Villafortuna oilfield (Italy) in 1996. The ejector increased the oil production rate by 30% and demonstrated the viability ofthe system as a reliable low cost-small size boosting system that had minimal impact on existing facilities, and is suitable for applications in existing fields or for new development both onshore and offshore. The article describes the main steps ofthe R&D project, developed in collaboration with the University of Ancona, as well as the testing process in which different ejector geometries were extensively tested with crude oil and gas in the Agip's multiphase loop of Trecate. The article describes the installation in the Villafortuna field as well as other studies under development.