A Nodal Analysis Based Monitoring of an Electric Submersible Pump Operation in Multiphase Flow

Abstract

Electrical submersible pump (ESP) operation is compromised by free gas, resulting in premature pump failure and production losses in new wells. It is essential to detect the onset of abnormal operations. We develop a model that predicts abnormal ESP operation when the free gas level increases in the pump. The model compares operation parameters with the parameters of normal operating ranges; it shuts down the ESP when necessary. We used a Schlumberger PIPESIM software (version 2017.01) to perform nodal analysis technique; we tested the model using the other multiphase correlation model and field case studies (where the gas problem in ESP was reported). We employ a homogenous model to calculate the differential pump pressures at various gas volume fractions. Nodal analysis of the intake and discharge point predicted the commencement of abnormal ESP conditions and the associated parameters (critical gas fraction, minimum operating pump intake pressure, and pump discharge pressure). The model results were similar to other surging correlation models (e.g., Romero, Dunbar, Turpin, Cirilo, and Zhou models); they were also identical to field case studies. We identify three performance stability phases when an ESP is exposed to free gas. These are the normal and abnormal operating ranges, as well as the ESP shutdown condition. Modeling permits careful monitoring of ESP operations that can be compromised by free gas.