Dynamic measurements of beam-pump parameters

Abstract

Measurements of nine electrical and mechanical parameters were made on conventional and special-geometry units during operation of beam-pump/sucker rod systems in oil and natural gas wells. All quantities were measured simultaneously and computer-recorded for a variety of pumping conditions. In this paper, using this data, the authors compared measured dynamic gearbox torques with calculated values, illustrating how calculation techniques model dynamically measured data. Calculated efficiencies indicating losses through the units from polished rod to the gearbox are shown to be necessary for adjusting gearbox torque calculations to measured values. Also, torque/speed curves are shown at the motor sheave. These data are corrected for inertial effects and plotted vs. motor manufacturers' published curves. Possibilities for future work incorporating these measurement techniques while the unit is in operation were discussed. In general, the data show how dynamically measured beam-pump data compare with conventional calculation techniques.