Advancements in Slim Deep-Set ESP Packers and High Rate Slim ESP Technology

Abstract

Slimline ESP technology advancement has been exceptionally fast in recent years. The development of high-speed and bottom intake slim ESP technology along with deep-set slim ESP packers has accelerated the deployment of slim equipment to overcome one of ESPs challenges, namely, the requirement of high production rate from wells that have smaller casing diameters. The journey to address this requirement started with the development of deep-set slim ESP packers and slimline ESP packer penetrators that were not available for small casing sizes. Likewise, in terms of the ESP system, the slimline technology had been developed only by a few ESP suppliers. In order to have a broader baseline, some additional suppliers were motivated to develop this technology based on current and future needs, as well as potential field implementations to test their product. This paper is focused on describing four main slimline technologies with the objective of stablishing their suitability, capabilities and limitations. From these 4 suppliers, there is a good selection in terms of rate capabilities depending on the application. Likewise, there are some differences in terms of wider field implementation record which depends on the technology development stage for each one of them. Additionally, two suppliers of deep-set slim ESP packers and slimline packer penetrators will be discussed. This paper describes four slimline technologies, detailing the challenges and solutions they offer in order to achieve the high desired production rates from wells with small casing diameter.