Novel Multifunctional Chemical Approaches for Extending Electro Submersible Pumps Run Life and Clearing Solid Build-Up
Authors: Morales Rosanel , Davis Alexander 
Published: November 2024

The impact that organic solids deposition, such as paraffin, asphaltene, sand and scale create on key components of an Electric Submersible Pump (ESP) in oil fields is paramount. Obstruction at the intake and stages of the ESP reduces flow and increases head losses. The presence of these conditions during the ESP operation can increase the likelihood of premature failures related to the mechanical components, such as shaft and the pump stages, affecting performance. This can also accelerate or affect the electrical integrity of components such as pot head, cable, and motors, which are often affected by these solid depositions.

Conventional methods to remove this induced damage, like solvents and traditional surfactant and/or conventional acid formulations, can be inefficient and struggle to break and remove damage. This might involve adjusting chemical treatments based on prevalent deposits or modifying ESP design to handle higher particulate levels.

Implementing a comprehensive deposit management strategy is vital for maintaining ESP functionality and extending operational life. Combining preventive measures, regular well surveillance, and responsive remediation techniques can protect investments and ensure continuous, efficient production. These advancements in chemical treatments and ESP technology will enhance operators’ ability to manage these challenges effectively.

This study investigates the use of multifunctional chemical technologies to replace traditional methodologies (solvents and thermal treatments) used to address deposit buildup and minimize environmental and downhole equipment performance impacts. Exploring the effectiveness of this technology, which can be delivered mixed in water or hydrochloric acid, aims to enhance operational efficiency, and reduce costs associated with downhole equipment maintenance.

This approach assesses the ability of these methods to remove paraffin and other depositions with a single effective stage job without damaging the internal ESP system and minimizing soaking time. These results highlight the potential of multifunctional technology in treating ESP, offering a practical and sustainable alternative for maintaining system integrity in severe deposition environments.

Laboratory testing and field trial results have been analyzed based on organic and inorganic damage removal efficiency, and their compatibility with elastomers and mechanical components commonly used in the oil industry. Trial results demonstrated an increase in the pump running life of 232%, reduction in the drawdown of 20% with nearly 100% runtime (not obtained before), and additional cost savings of ~$150K. This new approach demonstrated the potential of the technology as a safe and effective alternative for cleaning wells using different Artificial Lift Systems, such as ESP, maintaining elastomer integrity and reducing associated risks. This paper's work studies the effect of multifunctional chemistry when used to remove solid deposits inside artificial lift system units, and presents testing, application, and field results across the Permian Basin.

The potential of this technology illustrates exceptional performance in critical operational environments, providing a nonaggressive solution to ESP components compared to traditional solvents.