Using Fiberglass Sucker Rods in Deep Wells

Abstract When a flowing well no longer produces adequate volumes of oil, it is wise to use the most economical method of artificial lift to produce the wellbore fluids. When all forms of artificial lift are considered and the cost of producing oil exceeds the value of the produced oil, it becomes uneconomical to operate the well and the well is usually plugged and abandoned. Beam pumping systems utilizing fiberglass sucker rods are producing oil from wells that had previously been uneconomical and are now profitable operations. Beam pumping systems using fiberglass sucker rods in deep wells are producing fluid more economically than systems using steel sucker rods. In contrast to standard steel sucker rods where relatively heavy weight and corrosion are inherent, fiberglass sucker rod bodies are much lighter in weight and are not susceptible to corrosion. The author presents this paper in an effort to provide an in-depth study using fiberglass sucker rods in deep wells. Consideration is given to rod string design, pumping unit design, energy consumption, and production capability. This paper will present conclusions from studies of beam pumped wells with seating nipple depths in excess of 11,000 feet. The overall results have meant a considerable increase in production while reducing working stress on surface and sub-surface equipment. In conclusion, fiberglass sucker rod strings, when properly designed, reduce peak polished rod loads, torque requirements and energy consumption.