How can you optimize gas lift valve design for specific well conditions?

3 Gas lift valve spacing

The spacing of the gas lift valves determines the number and distribution of the gas injection points along the tubing. The spacing of the gas lift valves affects the flow regime, the pressure drop, and the stability of the gas lift system. The optimal spacing of the gas lift valves depends on the fluid properties, such as density, viscosity, and bubble point, and the well geometry, such as diameter, inclination, and length. A general rule is to space the gas lift valves at 300-600 ft intervals, and to use smaller spacing for heavier and more viscous fluids.

4 Gas lift valve performance

The performance of the gas lift valves determines the gas flow rate and the opening and closing pressures of the valves. The performance of the gas lift valves depends on the valve design, such as orifice size, port area, spring tension, and bellows volume, and the operating conditions, such as gas pressure, temperature, and quality. The optimal performance of the gas lift valves depends on the production objectives, such as flow rate, gas-liquid ratio, and drawdown. A general rule is to design the gas lift valves to operate at 80-90% of their maximum capacity, and to use higher opening pressures for deeper valves.

5 Gas lift valve testing

The testing of the gas lift valves is essential to verify their functionality and performance before installation. The testing of the gas lift valves involves measuring the opening and closing pressures, the gas flow rate, and the valve leakage under simulated well conditions. The testing of the gas lift valves helps to detect any defects or deviations from the design specifications, and to adjust or replace the faulty valves. A general rule is to test the gas lift valves at 10-20% above and below the expected operating pressures, and to use calibrated instruments and procedures.

6 Gas lift valve monitoring

The monitoring of the gas lift valves is important to evaluate their performance and reliability during operation. The monitoring of the gas lift valves involves measuring the gas injection rate, the tubing and casing pressures, the production rate, and the gas-liquid ratio at regular intervals. The monitoring of the gas lift valves helps to identify any problems or anomalies, such as valve malfunction, gas leakage, or tubing blockage, and to optimize or troubleshoot the gas lift system. A general rule is to monitor the gas lift valves at least once a month, and to use sensors and software tools for data analysis and visualization.

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?