Case Study: Successful implementation of ESPs in a High-GOR, Poorly Consolidated, Corrosive Field

Abstract

TX 75083-3836, U.S.A., fax 01-972-952-9435. AbstractThis paper describes the successful experience obtained in the use of electric submersible pumps (ESP) in the production of abrasive and corrosive fluids. The study covers 114 ESP wells completed by Harvest Vinccler, in the Uracoa and Tucupita Fields, located in the state of Monagas, Venezuela. This artificial lift method was initiated in July of 1996. Most of the failures were due to electrical failure, erosion (sand) and corrosion problems. The initial mean-time-between-failure (MTBF) of 250 days, has improved over time to 1752 days. The following are actions, which have improved the ESP MTBF: 1-An exhaustive study of the root cause of failure. 2-A new ESP design. 3-Monitoring of ESP performance. 4-The use of special abrasion/corrosion resistant alloy materials in ESP components and completion equipment. 5-Down-hole injection of de-emulsifiers, corrosion and scale inhibitors through capillary tubing, coupled with a well integrity monitoring program. 6-Improved quality and reliability of the electrical power source. All of these actions combined have enabled optimization of ESP applications in these fields. This study will present the details of the actions and their results, to achieve the optimization of ESP's in Uracoa-Tucupita Fields.