Well operation optimization
US11459862B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2020 |
| Grant date | Oct 4, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 3, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04B2205/09
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Fluid is produced from a well that is equipped with a plunger lift system. The plunger lift system includes a plunger that is inserted into production tubing that is installed in the well. Liquid from a surrounding formation accumulates on top of the plunger. The liquid accumulation on the plunger is monitored. Lift gas is injected into the production tubing below the plunger to lift the plunger and accumulated liquid to surface. A wellhead assembly at surface directs the accumulated liquid away from the well, and injection of the lift gas is suspended to allow the plunger to drop back to its initial position. The timing of the lift gas injection is based on monitoring liquid accumulation, and also to maximize production from the well.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.