bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving ESP Survivability in the SAGD Environment: An Integrated Approach to Managing ESP Performance in Challenging Conditions
Authors: Joseph Rejish , Babatunde TK , Briceno Lisett , Gaviria Fernando , Plaxton Bill 
Published: September 2023

Summary
Firebag SAGD (Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage) asset has shown steady growth in well count, with ESPs (Electric Submersible pumps) as the primary mode of lift. In the high temperature environment, robust design and material selections are important considerations to achieve long run lives. However, key constraints such as economic conditions, increasing well count and changing well performance require solutions that optimize cost and reliability. This is critical to offering flexibility in approaches to addressing the top failure modes of the ESPs at Firebag. The paper discusses Suncor's efforts to prioritize not only prevention, but also management of the key failure modes to optimize reliability and cost in the SAGD environment by developing a better understanding of the problem. This includes novel approaches to treat an installed ESP as a repairable system through cable-only replacement (non-serviced motor reruns) and re-landing an ESP as-is when a cable failure is located close to the surface. Risk mitigation is done primarily through data analysis of teardown information and statistical survivability rates at both the system and sub-component level. This risk mitigation includes building the foundation for information gathering through a clear teardown process on every ESP pulled from service, gaining insights on failures, challenging traditional assumptions based on the data obtained, and driving focused trials and initiatives.
Case Study: Predicting Electrical Submersible Pump Failures Using Artificial Intelligence and Physics-Based Hybrid Models
Authors: Silvia Shejuti , Furlong Ted 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Unplanned electric submersible pump (ESP) failures cause significant revenue loss due to deferred production, and increased operational cost associated with emergency workovers. Timely prediction of failures due to critical operating conditions can help operators take proactive actions to avoid sudden ESP failures. Traditional condition-based monitoring (CBM) methods generate overwhelming alarms based on deviation from fixed thresholds. Due to the dynamic behavior of the reservoir, these alarm thresholds need to be fine-tuned frequently to generate useful insights. Moreover, these alarms often yield a short lead time to a critical event or failure, leaving little room for taking preventive actions.
A major operator in Latin America was experiencing similar operational challenges. In this case study, we show how ESP Predictive Failure Analytics (PFA) helped this operator to identify critical events while the ESPs were running and to take proactive actions to extend ESP run life.

Methods, Procedures, Process
PFA uses artificial intelligence (AI), physics-based and expert knowledge-based methods to predict short-term damage events, such as a broken shaft, short-circuit, grounded downhole failure, as well as long-term damage events, such as pump low efficiency, sand, scale, deposition, or gassy conditions that can lead to failure. PFA combines these damage events probabilities with parametric survival analysis to predict ESP Remaining Useful Life (RUL).

Results, Observations, Conclusions
PFA In this study, we demonstrate PFA results for two ESPs. PFA raised a broken shaft/ missed pump stages alarm for ESP run# 4 in well 1 after a sudden motor current and production rate decline. Due to this signal, PFA estimated a significant reduction in RUL. After observing these results, the operator increased the motor speed to improve production. PFA then raised another alarm for downthrust condition, reducing the RUL further. PFA enabled the operator to quickly schedule a workover, reducing downtime. For ESP run# 7 in well 2, PFA estimated a steady decline in RUL due to motor temperature and vibration increase over time. The operator avoided the imminent failure by reducing the pump speed, which helped decrease the motor temperature and increase the ESP run life.

Methods, Procedures, Process
PFA is a unique approach that combines AI, physics-based, and expert knowledge-based approaches to provide interpretable predictions of ESP failure. Unlike traditional CBM approaches, PFA generates fewer alarms with longer lead times, enabling the operator to take preventive measures to avoid sudden failure. In addition, PFA ranks ESPs based on criticality, which enables effective surveillance of large number of wells.
Assessment of Real-Time ESP Failure Prediction Using Digital Twin, Machine Learning and Damage Modelling
Authors: Melo R. A. Lastra , Worth D. J. , Swaffield S. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
In the presented research, an assessment was conducted of how machine learning techniques, in combination with physics-based damage modelling, could be capitalized on to help move towards the goal of developing an effective and automated real-time ESP failure prediction system. A prediction model was developed that has the capability of predicting two groups of failure mechanisms. One group consisted of failures related to pump wear and scale plugging and the other group consisted of failures related to increased drag (rotational resistance) in either the motor or the pump. The model was designed to both predict the remaining useful life (RUL) of the ESP and provide an alarm when the ESP is expected to fail within the next 90 days (PF_90). The base form used for the model was a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network. Interesting aspects of the model include: specifically designed training targets allowing for both an RUL estimate to be provided over the life of an ESP and the simultaneous prediction of both RUL and PF_90; specifically designed inputs calculated from the raw data as based on the physics-based damage modelling; and a unique architecture for the LSTM network, allowing for multiple failure mechanisms to be better represented. The performance of the prediction model was promising: an average score of 73% (on a test dataset) was achieved using the chosen performance metric for the research, the F1_Score.
Field Validation: ESP Reliability Monitoring and Production Optimization by Trending Condition and Performance Data Extracted from ESP Surface Electrical Signals
Authors: Badkoubeh A. , Waldner L. B. , Imanfard M. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This paper presents the results of an ongoing extended field trial on multiple ESP systems in a SAGD field in Canada. The main objective of this field trial is to evaluate the impact of the condition monitoring technology introduced in this paper to address a gap in predictive and preventative maintenance programs for ESP applications. Specifically, the results are used to determine the ability to monitor and quantify the impact of (a) power quality, (b) adverse flow regime and (c) undesirable mechanical vibrations on ESP production and reliability using data extracted from electrical lines supplying the power to ESPs. The data collected from several wells on a single production pad were trended over several months to determine warning thresholds and subsequently operational recommendations to improve overall production and reliability performance. The information collected from this field trial is intended to demonstrate the effectiveness and benefits of this condition monitoring approach in the Operators field.
The described condition monitoring technology is based on measurements of high frequency electrical signals, 3-phase current and voltage, from the VFD panel supplying power to the ESP. Previous SPE papers, SPE-201169-MS and SPE-204522-MS, covered the core concept and enabling components of this technology. These papers shows examples on mechanical, electrical and flow regime diagnosis and demonstrated a direct correlation between the periodic mechanical vibration in an ESP and the frequency component in the electrical current signals. This foundational work was largely the basis of the extended field trial discussed in this paper. The results, presented in this paper, demonstrate interesting findings in how this method of condition monitoring can provide meaningful insights into the operation and reliability of the operating ESP systems.
Study on Flow Characteristics of a Rotating Centrifugal Impeller Under Gassy Flow Based on Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD)
Authors: Zhu Jianjun , Wang Haoyu , Li Nan , Cao Guangqiao , Zhang Yongxue , Li Yuanyuan , Zhu Haiwen 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Electric submersible pumps (ESPs) are widely used in both onshore and offshore oil fields. However, the impeller of an ESP has strong fluctuation and obvious disturbance structure under the condition of gas-liquid two-phase flow, which leads to significant performance degradation. Dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) method is a data-driven approach that can effectively identify the characteristic frequency of unsteady flow and capture the disturbance structure in the flow field. In this paper, DMD method is used to decompose and reconstruct the phase and velocity fields in the impeller of an ESP. The main modal structure and frequency information are obtained. The future flow field is predicted to verify the feasibility of DMD method within high-speed rotating flow fields. The results show that DMD method can effectively extract the main flow structure of the flow field in space and time, which can also be used to check the flow stability. Applying DMD method to the analysis of unsteady flow field is important for flow feature extraction, flow phenomenon analysis and flow mechanism interpretation.
Lesson Learned from Digital Oil Field Implementation in ESP UCR Wells
Authors: Gamboa J. , Grohman L. , Colter M. , Zejli A. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This paper summarizes lessons learned from a 2-year program aiming at the implementation of Digital Oil Field (DOF) across unconventional resources (UCR) fields produced with ESP. First, the outcomes of the 6-month pilot program are presented. The goal of this pilot was to define workflows and practices for (a) data collection and processing, (b) automatic ESP model matching and VLP generation, and (c) well optimization. Next, digital oil field (DOF) implementation is discussed including data integration, well test validation and learnings from field optimization with gas lift and ESP wells. Petroleum Expert DOF is software application chosen for this project, therefore, most of the discussion is focused on Petex suite: Prosper, GAP and DOF.
The introduction of unforeseen biases through data treatment is one of those learning. For example, a downtime event would introduce zeros in the averaging of operating frequency potentially causing unrealistic low frequency values while pressure build-up during downtime would drive an over-estimation of average intake pressure. Likewise, we learnt the importance of qualitative match between model results and ESP real-time data analysis. Most engineers would gain confidence in simulation results if the model outcome matched real-time ESP trend interpretations. Finally, a brief discussion of ESP model-based optimization is carried out in the context of UCR wells.
Despite successful deployment across multiple Permian fields and automatically matching more than 100 ESP wells every month, the team learnt that tool true value is only achievable through broad user adoption. Therefore, training and mentoring are discussed as well as the creation of tools that speed up model building bottlenecks.
Case Study: Customized Solution Used to Successfully Set ESPs in Unconventional Wells with Complex Mechanical Geometries Where Other Artificial Lift Methods are Unsuitable
Authors: Martinez Villarreal Paola Elizabeth , Morales Diego Armando Marquez , Briceno Argenis Alberto Garces 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
One of the technical considerations for selecting the appropriate artificial lift system for a well is a suitable well construction; this includes the deviation, dogleg severity (DLS), direction, and wellbore size. The different artificial lift types can be affected by the well construction in different ways; some systems cannot pass through a highly deviated section, and others cannot operate in a high-DLS section. The maximum deviation that equipment can pass through without risk of permanent damage depends on factors such as equipment outer diameter, casing inner diameter, equipment length, metallurgy, and different equipment series combinations.
This case study presents the successful installation of nine flanged electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) in unconventional wells operated by an independent oil and gas company in the Permian's Delaware Basin, which is one of the most-prolific unconventional oil and gas basins in the US. The results of this study demonstrate how customized strings using high-grade materials, enhanced pump types, and more-efficient motors can operate in wells with complex mechanical geometries in which standard-flanged ESPs and other artificial lift systems are considered unsuitable.
The Value of Pump Discharge Pressure Measurements and their Application for Improving Performance and Operation of ESPs
Authors: Narvaez D. , Aylett D. , Botros K. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
While most of the offshore and high-profile land electric submersible pump (ESP) installations are equipped with downhole sensors for measurement of operating conditions at the pump intake and discharge, ESP systems in land operations typically do not include pump discharge pressure sensors. For these systems, we rely on measurements of intake conditions—wellbore pressure and temperature, motor oil and/or motor winding temperature, and vibrations—and operating parameters measured at surface.
The limited use of discharge sensors is often due to a reduced clearance between the motor outside diameter and casing inside diameter. There are applications where physical limitations are not a concern, yet some operators choose to run only the base unit for monitoring intake measurements because they do not see a benefit on adding discharge pressure data.
The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the value of adding discharge pressure data to the monitoring system when used in conjunction with the other real-time downhole and surface measurements to evaluate and optimize performance of ESP systems.
Case examples of field operations will be presented to illustrate how pump discharge pressure measurements contributed to an effective and timely diagnostic of critical operating conditions and optimization of ESP performance operating in challenging conditions such as: multiphase flow, slugging flow and gas interference, flow restrictions, solids buildup, and changes in inflow performance or fluid properties.
Pump discharge pressure monitoring has been available for decades but as of today, the value and use of this powerful resource is overlooked in many land operations that could benefit from it to implement a comprehensive program of real-time surveillance, remote control, and optimization of ESP systems.
ESP System Monitoring and Diagnosis from Surface Power Acquisition
Authors: Hoefel A. , Kelly D. , Jin R. , Meier D. , Chu T. , Anderson J. , Chong J. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Electrical submersible pump (ESP) operation is very sensitive and is challenging to monitor and diagnose because of limited downhole sensor information. A new data acquisition (DAQ) system for ESP system diagnosis overcomes this limitation by also including abundant information in the electrical surface signals. The diagnosis covers the surface equipment, cable, and downhole equipment based on a comprehensive combination of all available measurements, actuator (adjustable control inputs, such as voltage, frequency and surface choke position) settings, and calculated electrical performance parameters[from power quality monitoring (PQM)].Through spectral analysis electrical signal analysis (ESA) evaluates even theelectrical signal higher frequency contents to get even more insight into the downhole equipment. The analysis outcome supports maintenance and optimization with a comprehensive assessment of system and component health. Additional capabilities enable assessment and optimization of operational conditions.
Permanent Magnet Motor Safety – The Big Short Question
Authors: Collins Charles , Cookson Austin , Cloud Brandon , Harris Dennis 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
With the emergence of permanent magnet motors (PMM) in the ESP industry, new challenges have arisen regarding the potential for electrical energy generation during installation, operation, and pulling of the equipment. Among these challenges include how to properly terminate the ESP power cable conductors at the cable ends or point of work. Safety being of the highest importance, robust methods for terminating the conductors during each of these processes are necessary to prevent field electrical incidents.
Numerous opinions have been expressed and methods developed across the industry on how best to perform cable terminations, many of which are not compatible with each other. The industry's lack of agreement on when to apply each method and understanding on best practices has significant potential for serious field personnel safety incidents. This underscores the need for establishing the most robust methods considering the wide variety of potential scenarios that could be encountered.
This paper will evaluate six cable termination approaches through physical motor testing. A PMM with conductors connected to a long ESP cable reel will be forced to rotate at various speeds. The motor terminals and cable termination will be instrumented to measure both phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground voltage as well as current. Each approach will consider both ideal conditions and suboptimal conditions that may occur from downhole insulation damage. More than 100 permutations of these possible situations will be compared and evaluated. Recommendations will be made based on these results on when each termination method might be a valid and safe option including rankings to show which methods safely cover the broadest set of situations.
The results of this method comparison will provide actionable data such that the safest cable termination methods can be chosen. This will also guide field personnel on which methods should be avoided. Ultimately, this will contribute to establishing best practice throughout the ESP industry for conductor handling when PMM ESP systems are involved.
A Step-By-Step Holistic Methodology Quantifies and Reduces Harmonics on ESPs, Increasing Revenue by USD 500,000 Per Year: A Case Study from a field in Ecuador
Authors: Carrillo Kevin Ismael Andagoya , Leon Jorge Luis Villalobos , Orozco Andrés , Batallas Estefi , Toledo Luis , Enriquez Luis , Reyes Carlos 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Harmonics are widely known occurrences that negatively affect electrical equipment. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct detailed studies to quantify and understand their effects in order to effectively manage them. This study aims to characterize harmonics specifically on the load side of variable speed drives (VSDs), with the objective of capturing both current and voltage downhole motor waveforms and analyzing their impact on electrical submersible pump (ESP) applications installed at ~9,500 ft vertical depth designed for oil producing. The VSDs evaluated are located in different production clusters within a Field located in Ecuador. In this field 98% of the wells use ESP as artificial lift method with several types and models of variable speed drives (VSDs) to run the downhole equipment. The wide range of equipment available in the field offers an optimal population for performance comparison and data collection. Additionally, the study data is complemented by dismantle, inspection, and failure analysis (DIFA) reports of retrieved equipment, which enhanced the understanding of the effects of harmonics.
The Impact of Response Biases on the Variation in Life Satisfaction
Authors: Klement Johannes 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Despite the abundance of empirical research on life satisfaction, disparities remain regard- ing its variation. Using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), this study analyses to what extent biases in the design and implementation of life satisfaction sur- veys influenced the variation in life satisfaction. The study employs various methodologi- cal approaches, including distributional analysis, descriptive statistics, Markov transition probabilities and logistic regression. Consequently, this study demonstrates the significant positive and non-adaptive changes in life satisfaction that can arise when an interviewer is present during a survey. Moreover, the method of measuring life satisfaction on an eleven- point integer scale has a substantial impact. The midpoints of the scale are frequently used by individuals to assess their lives, which results in a balance between positive and negative evaluations. These findings have broader implications for the overall level of variation. It appears unlikely that an average life satisfaction score of more than 8 can be maintained over the long term on a scale of 0 to 10. It should be noted that the scale also impacts adaptive processes. Additionally, the patterns of dissatisfaction and satisfaction variation differ. For a more nuanced understanding of the causes, future research may benefit from analyzing periods of satisfaction and dissatisfaction with life separately.