Open AccessCryogenic Treatment of Production Components in High-Wear Rate Wells
Author(s) -
M. Milliken
Publication year - 2002
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Reports
DOI - 10.2172/794381
Subject(s) - rod , cryogenic treatment , production cycle , materials science , phase (matter) , tempering , metallurgy , chemistry , engineering , microstructure , medicine , alternative medicine , organic chemistry , pathology , manufacturing engineering
Deep Cryogenic Tempering (DCT) is a specialized process whereby the molecular structure of a material is ''re-trained'' through cooling to -300 F and then heating to +175-1100 F. Cryocon, Inc. (hereafter referred to as Cryocon) and RMOTC entered an agreement to test the process on oilfield production components, including rod pumps, rods, couplings, and tubing. Three Shannon Formation wells were selected (TD about 500 ft) based on their proclivity for high component wear rates. Phase 1 of the test involved operation for a nominal 120 calendar day period with standard, non-treated components. In Phase 2, treated components were installed and operated for another nominal 120 calendar day period. Different cryogenic treatment profiles were used for components in each well. Rod pumps (two treated and one untreated) were not changed between test phases. One well was operated in pumped-off condition, resulting in abnormal wear and disqualification from the test. Testing shows that cryogenic treatment reduced wear of rods, couplers, and pump barrels. Testing of production tubing produced mixed results