Runlife, Retrieval, Replacement: The Route To Optimal ESP Performance

Almost all oil field operators turn to artificial lift as their oil fields mature and become more challenging to operate. Nowadays the choice of artificial lift tends towards electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) rather than other technologies. The barrier to optimal field management when using ESPs has always been seen as the high incidence of mechanical or electrical failure. Manufacturers have concentrated on technological improvements to extend run-life, however in real-life downhole conditions, failures remain both inevitable and unpredictable. These continued failures result in deferred and lost oil as well as costly rig supported workovers to retrieve and install new ESP systems. Production can also be lost in daily ESP operation, either from suboptimal pump selection or as reservoir conditions change.

This paper presents the case for combining the ongoing improvements in equipment run-life with expedient retrieval and replacement of failing or ineffective ESPs using wireline technologies. The ZEiTECS Shuttle makes it possible to retrieve, redeploy, resize and replace an entire ESP system, post initial workover or completion of any type, simply, swiftly and safely, without the use of a rig or hoist using standard wireline equipment. Well production can be optimized by ensuring that the best pump is installed for current production conditions, and the well can be kept tuned at maximum capacity by changing out the ESP as conditions alter. For producing assets the ZEiTECS Shuttle can improve current field economics and for new field developments, that have previously been considered marginal for the use of ESP technology, project risk will be significantly reduced. This breakthrough allows immediate recovery of production after unscheduled system failures, lowers deferment, and maximizes field recovery.