ESP technology and heavy oil
Feature articles on new heavy oil ESP technology and modeling research.
In our ongoing discussion on the role of the electric submersible pump (ESP) in heavy oil production, we have a two new feature articles covering ESP innovations and research.
The first article, Red Hot Pumps, reviews new high temperature ESP technology that has allowed a big improvement in SAGD operations.
The second article published by the AICHE, Heavy Oil Production with an Electric Submersible Pump, describes Heriot-Watt research on new approaches to ESP modeling which better represent flow performance and ESP contribution to heavy oil production. While the article is focused on the modeling techniques, it also provides a great overview of the reservoir, fluid, and wellbore factors that need to be considered in ESP planning and operations. One important conclusion from the research was that the heating effect of the ESP can result in up to a 20% increase in oil rate.
Jorge.
