Deployment of a Multiphase Progressive Cavity Pump Coupled with a Submersible Permanent Magnet Motor

Abstract

Abstract The combination of two breakthrough patented technologies, namely the Hydraulically Regulated PCP (HRPCP) for High GOR Wells associated with the Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) technology used as an electrical submersible PCP had been successfully deployed in Middle East. Combining the highest motor efficiency of the Permanent Magnet Motors with the most efficient ALS PCP, is virtually the most efficient existing ALS on the market to-date opening doors for larger scale deployment to improve recovery factor while lowering abandonment pressure and reducing premature failures. The pilot has been installed in a highly deviated well deploying a submersible PMM coupled with a multiphase PCP featuring Hydraulic Regulators to handle high free gas at the pump intake. The absence of rods allows operating a PCP through high DLS while eliminating the rod drags against the tubing. Being a technology derived from PCP, the HRPCP enables to handle sand, solids and viscous oil as any other PCP, bringing in a single ALS the benefits of the ESP and PCP. Furthermore, the compact PMM allows going safely through high DLS and makes the submersible Permanent Magnet Motor PCP one of the highest efficient artificial lift system in terms of energy consumption. This article highlights the technology features, the related benefits observed and the performance recorded on a heavy oil field in Middle East in cold production.