Artificial Lift Using Impulse Pumping

Abstract

Impulse pumping is a new method for transport of fluids that can be applied in drilling and petroleum production. Of particular interest are applications of impulse pumping to artificial lift of liquids. In such situations, the motor driven part of an impulse pump appratus is located at wellhead; hence facilitating ease of operation and maintenance. In addition, no theoretical vertical lift limit applies in impulse pumping; thus simplifying design and applications of an impulse pump. Characteristic curves of impulse pumping first emphasize situations where impulse pumping performs with the greatest energy efficiency. Artificial lift of deep water for depressurization of the Statfjord field is then investigated. Operations, maintenance and performances of impulse pumping are then compared to those of electric submersible pumps and jet pumps based on results from three different industrial test cases.