Development of a New Plunger-lift Model using Smart Plunger <sup>*<sup>) Data

Chava, G.K., Falcone, G. and Teodoríu, C. (2008) Development of a New Plunger-lift Model using Smart Plunger <sup>*<sup>) Data. In: SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, ATCE 2008, Denver, CO., United States, 21-24 Sept 2008, ISBN 9781605604824 (doi: 10.2118/115934-MS)

Abstract

The problem of liquid loading, which is common to all mature gas producing wells, needs to be identified and solved in order to achieve efficient gas production. Field operators not only need to select the best possible technical solution for liquid loading, but also one that is cost effective. A popular remedial solution for liquid loading in onshore gas wells is plunger lift. However, this technology is currently designed using simplistic models with restrictive assumptions, coupled with field experience. This paper provides an overview of the various plunger lift models available in the public domain and highlights their fundamental limitations. A new approach to plunger lift modeling is then proposed, which assumes the availability of pressure and temperature data provided by smart plungers. These devices are equipped with internal gauges to record pressure and temperature with time, which can be downloaded whenever the plunger is at surface. In the proposed model, these data are coupled with the fundamental conservation equations of mass, momentum and energy that govern the dynamics of plunger lift. The main difficulties of dealing with transient flows that are typical of plunger lift operations are identified. These include the dynamic interactions between reservoir, annulus and tubing, which are particularly relevant in tight gas reservoirs. The overall objective is to develop a model capable of predicting plunger lift operations in a more realistic fashion and so optimize lift cycles.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Additional Information: Proceedings - SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, volume 4, 2008, pages 2639-2653.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Falcone, Professor Gioia
• Authors: Chava, G.K., Falcone, G., and Teodoríu, C.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy
• ISBN: 9781605604824