How do you design and implement an effective artificial lift surveillance and maintenance program?

1 Define your objectives

The first step in designing and implementing an effective artificial lift surveillance and maintenance program is to define your objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs). These should align with your overall field development strategy and reflect the specific characteristics and challenges of your reservoir, well, and artificial lift system. Some common objectives are to maximize production, minimize operating costs, prevent failures, and comply with regulations. Some common KPIs are production rate, fluid level, pump efficiency, power consumption, and failure frequency.

2 Assess your current situation

The next step is to assess your current situation and identify any gaps or issues that need to be addressed. This involves collecting and analyzing data from various sources, such as sensors, gauges, meters, logs, reports, and inspections. You should evaluate the performance, condition, and operation of your artificial lift system and compare it with the expected or optimal values. You should also identify any potential risks or threats that could affect your artificial lift system, such as corrosion, scale, sand, gas, or water.

3 Design your surveillance plan

Based on your objectives and assessment, you should design your surveillance plan that specifies the frequency, methods, and tools for monitoring and measuring your artificial lift system. Your surveillance plan should be tailored to your specific artificial lift type, such as rod pump, electrical submersible pump, gas lift, or hydraulic pump. You should also consider the availability and reliability of your data sources, such as surface or downhole sensors, acoustic or electromagnetic devices, or periodic tests or surveys. Your surveillance plan should aim to provide timely and accurate information that can help you detect and diagnose any anomalies or deviations in your artificial lift system.

4 Design your maintenance plan

Similarly, based on your objectives and assessment, you should design your maintenance plan that specifies the frequency, methods, and tools for repairing and replacing your artificial lift system. Your maintenance plan should be based on the condition and performance of your artificial lift system, rather than on a fixed schedule or interval. You should also consider the availability and reliability of your resources, such as personnel, equipment, materials, or contractors. Your maintenance plan should aim to prevent or mitigate any failures or malfunctions that could affect your artificial lift system.

5 Implement your surveillance and maintenance plan

The final step is to implement your surveillance and maintenance plan and execute the actions and tasks required to monitor and maintain your artificial lift system. This involves coordinating and communicating with your team and stakeholders, such as operators, technicians, engineers, managers, or regulators. You should also document and record the data and results of your surveillance and maintenance activities, such as readings, measurements, tests, inspections, repairs, or replacements. You should also review and update your surveillance and maintenance plan regularly to reflect any changes or improvements in your artificial lift system.

6 Evaluate your results and feedback

The last but not least step is to evaluate your results and feedback and measure the effectiveness and efficiency of your artificial lift surveillance and maintenance program. This involves comparing and analyzing your actual and expected outcomes and KPIs, such as production, costs, failures, and compliance. You should also identify any lessons learned or best practices that can help you improve your artificial lift surveillance and maintenance program. You should also share and communicate your results and feedback with your team and stakeholders and solicit their input and suggestions for continuous improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?