Exploring the Relationship Between H2S Concentration and ESP Failures: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Achieving a balance between efficiency and sustainability is imperative to meet the rising demand of oil production. The study aims to analyze Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) impact on the operational run life of Electric Submersible Pumps (ESPs), with the objective of identifying optimal conditions that prolong ESP longevity, reduce environmental footprint, and enhance sustainability. The study applied a comprehensive analytical approach using a large sample size and investigated how higher H2S concentrations impacts ESP run life, considering various reservoir parameters over extended periods. Additionally, the analysis included historical data in diverse field environments, covering different H2S concentrations, to ensure broad applicability unlocking room for improvement, by examining a large sample size and employing analytical techniques, this study sheds light on the factors influencing ESP longevity, thus contributing to enhanced understanding and sustainable practices in oil production. The analysis revealed inverse relationship between H2S concentration and ESP run life. Lower ESP run life was notably found in reservoirs with high H2S concentrations, leading to increased environmental impact and reduced sustainable well production. In order to mitigate H2S impact on run life, different ESP pumps and completion types are utilized based on reservoir conditions. In harsh well environments with high H2S levels, ESPs fitted with metal-to-metal Motor Lead Extension (MLE) are deployed to prolong the longevity of ESP systems, while in milder conditions, ESPs with conventional MLE serve. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between H2S, fluid properties, and ESP run life, guiding the adoption of sustainable production strategies that optimize productivity while mitigating environmental harm. This research presents novel and valuable viewpoints on how H2S affects ESP run life, while also highlighting strategies for identifying optimal conditions to enhance ESPs efficiency and prolong their run life and sustainability. These discoveries can serve as a cornerstone for refining industry standards and methodologies, advocating for a more sustainable paradigm in oil and gas extraction.