Abstract: Electric Submersible Pump (ESP) performance deteriorates when intake gas volume fraction (GVF) exceeds a certain threshold. The intake GVF limit of current conventional multiphase pumps (MPPs) is about 75%. This paper presents test results of a novel MPP with an ultra-high rotational speed, providing significant pressure boost while operating with intake GVFs up to 90%. The pump opens a new era for multiphase artificial lifting, especially in producing wells with high gas-oil-ratios.

The Ultra-High-Speed High Gas-Volume-Fraction Pump (UHS HGVFP) has a 4-inch housing outer diameter and operates at 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM). The test fluids were air and water, with liquid flow rates varying from 500 to 2025 barrels per day (BPD). The gas flow rates were adjusted to achieve pump intake GVFs from 0% to 90%. Corresponding intake and discharge pressures, brake horsepower and intake mixture temperatures were measured for each test point, with pump boost pressures and efficiencies subsequently computed. Pump performance variation with liquid flow ratios were plotted for different intake GVFs of the UHS HGVFP.

The results showed that for a given intake GVF, the pump pressure boost decreased with increasing liquid volume flow rate, and for a given liquid volume flow rate decreased with increasing intake GVF. The lowest pump pressure boost at 90% intake GVF was about 21% the value obtained for the liquid-only test. The power input variation with liquid volume flow rate and intake GVF was similar to those observed for the pressure boost. The lowest power input measured at 90% intake GVF was about 39% the maximum value from the 100%-liquid test. The lower power input requirement with increasing intake GVF may be attributed to lower gas-liquid mixture densities associated with flows having higher gas content. The liquid hydraulic efficiency decreased with increasing intake GVF for a given liquid volume flow rate, with maximum values of 42% and 9% for 0% and 90% intake GVFs, respectively. The best efficiency points shifted to lower liquid volume flow rates with increasing intake GVF. In conclusion, significant pressure boost was produced by the UHS HGVFP while operating at up to 90% intake GVF. The successful tests facilitated onward plans to mobilize a full system for field installation and trials.

Gas handling tolerance of the UHS HGVFP surpasses the 75% intake GVF limitation in current conventional MPPs. The UHS HGVFP widens gas handling capability up to 90% intake GVF, while simultaneously providing significant pressure boost, resulting in a breakthrough in multiphase pumping artificial lift operations. The UHS HGVFP system opens a new chapter to maximize production from high gas content wells and realize full economic benefit from the field asset.

Abstract: A group of fields in the Middle East is committed to adopting advanced artificial lift technologies to address
production challenges in complex well shapes. Conventional electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) have
proven limitations in deviated wells with high dogleg severity (DLS) and variable reservoir characteristics.
Key objectives of the trial:
• Evaluate the deployment feasibility and performance of Ultra High-Speed (UHS) ESPs in deviated
wells
• Compare production gains and operational stability against conventional ESP systems
• Assess long-term reliability and specific energy consumption
The rapid evolution of artificial lift technologies highlights the pressing need for solutions tailored to
the complexities of Middle Eastern well designs. This study investigates the application of UHS ESPs as a
novel solution to enhance oil recovery and operational reliability in such demanding environments.

Abstract: Ultra-High-Speed (UHS) Electric Submersible Pumps (ESP) Systems have grown in popularity in recent
years for providing synergy benefits of high-speed rotation and centrifugal pumping concept. This study
intends to demonstrate how UHS operation can leverage its advantages beyond traditional approach to
address issues in oil and gas wells through application of various pump types. Authors reviewed three
revolutionary concepts for future UHS pumps including Vortex, Helico-axial and Boundary Layer design,
to validate their application range at ultra-high speeds. In addition, to highlight the enhanced capabilities and performance of Centrifugal UHS ESPs under varying operational conditions. Authors conducted in-
depth case studies in three fields, one each from Africa, Europe, and North America.

Features of UHS operation (10,000-15,000 rpm) can be found across different components of the
downhole system. The research has brought more focus on pump and pumping method design for sand
containing gas-liquid mixtures. Various designs of multiphase pumps and their combinations may deliver
unique features that cannot be reached with standard-speed applications. Study results represent detailed application range matrix for high gas, high sand and traditional centrifugal pump designs under ultra-high-
speed operating conditions.

Results of this study demonstrate the superiority of ultra-high-speed pumps over their standard
counterparts resides in their capacity to meet the increasingly stringent demands of modern industrial
applications. This advantage stems primarily from their enhanced efficiency and performance metrics,
which manifest across multiple operational dimensions. Project findings have brought new insights and
perspectives into pumping fluids for both oil and gas/gas-condensate wells, with some of them having been
partially tested.

Abstract: Over time, with intensive field development, well conditions can deteriorate; there is a risk of water and gas
breakthrough, reservoir and bottom-hole pressures may decrease if there is no effective reservoir pressure
maintenance system in place. Neither Electric Submersible Pumps (ESPs) nor Gas Lift (GL) are capable
of effectively maintaining efficient production in certain conditions. To address these issues a new hybrid
production method was developed – a hybrid gas lift system with a turbine-driven centrifugal pump.
The Turbine-driven pumping system effectively solves bottlenecks of both standard ESP and Gas Lift
artificial lift methods by use of the most advanced high-speed pump with operating speeds up to 15,000
rpm powered by a non-combustion ultrasonic turbine. Downhole components are integrated in a turbine
submersible pump (TSP) set having no electric parts. Pressurized gas is injected into the annulus, entering
the gas turbine at its setting depth, it expands creating torque on its shaft and driving a centrifugal pump.
Having passed the turbine, the injected gas is discharged to the production tubing where it is utilized again
for gas lifting.
The implementation of the Gas Lift with the turbine-driven pumping system enables the highest possible
production volumes providing optimization beyond the conventional Gas Lift capabilities. The system can
be deployed both on tubing and riglessly, either with a slick line or coiled tubing. Total pumping efficiency
can be improved up to 39%. The technology enables production optimization and/or achieving target
drawdown with minimized gas injection rate and pressure if compared to traditional Gas Lift. Technology
avoids the use of electricity in the well resulting in dramatic improvement of reliability and runlife, reducing
the number of shut-ins and minimizing non-productive time.
Unlike conventional methods, that often suffer from high energy consumption, mechanical complexity,
and limited adaptability to varying well conditions, the turbine-driven pump offers a novel solution that
overcomes these limitations. It is suitable for a wide range of well conditions, including high-temperature
environments, where conventional methods may struggle to perform. Potential implementation in the
geothermal industry further underscores its importance in driving the green transition of the oil and gas
sector towards more sustainable practices.

Abstract: For decades standard V-Belt transmission systems with induction motor have been a traditional method to
drive beam pumping unit. This study describes a new approach based on the use of a Permanent Magnet
Motor with no transmission.
Non-transmission drive integrates a permanent magnet motor and smart variable frequency drive. The
technology eliminates the need for conventional V-belt systems, the motor is installed directly on the
gearbox. Application results revealed unique features of the drive, that cannot be reached with standard
application. Elimination of V-belt system allows for safe and environmentally friendly operation with
enhanced reliability and reduced non-productive time as no maintenance is required. High-efficient PM
Motor with no additional losses in V-belt improves power consumption resulting in total power savings of
15-35 % if compared to the previously installed systems. The system is easy to install, with installation
time being less than 1 hour [1].
Synchronous nature of PM motor operation provides a number of options for its control through smart
VSD algorithms requiring no additional sensors. VSD embeds mathematical models with a number of
options for motor speed and rod load control, operation monitoring, failure risk mitigation, and production
optimization, e.g. real-time up-stroke / down-stroke speed adjustment, torque control, operating trips
detection and many other features. This can potentially improve production, expected runlife of rods and
surface equipment.
This paper demonstrates an effective and efficient alternative for oil production with Sucker-Rod Pumps.
Application of the new type of surface PMM drive has proved its high potential for production optimization
and power consumption improvement with minimized risk of failures.

Abstract: For decades standard V-Belt transmission with an asynchronous motor has been a traditional method to
drive beam pumping units. This study describes a new approach based on the use of a Permanent Magnet
Motor with no transmission.
Non-transmission drive integrates a permanent magnet motor (PMM) and smart variable frequency
drive. Since rotor is mounted directly on the gearbox input shaft, with stator being mechanically attached
to the gearbox housing, the technology eliminates the need for conventional V-belt transmission between
the motor and the gearbox. Variable Speed Drive (VSD) can provide a more advanced control for the
permanent magnet motor, embedding mathematical models with a number of options for motor speed and
rod load control, operation monitoring, failure risk mitigation, and production optimization.
Application results revealed unique features of the system, that cannot be reached with a standard
application. Elimination of V-belt transmission allows for safe and environmentally friendly operation
with enhanced reliability and reduced non-productive time as no maintenance is required. High-efficient
PM Motor (with no losses in the transmission) improves power consumption and practically demonstrate
total power savings of 15-35 % if compared to the previously installed systems. The PMM system is easy
to install, with installation time being less than 1 hour.
PM Motor principles of operation provide a number of options for its control through smart VSD
algorithms requiring no additional sensors. Real-time up-stroke / down-stroke speed adjustment, torque
control, operating trips detection and many other features can potentially improve production and expected
runlife of downhole and surface equipment.
The results of this study are intended to demonstrate an effective and efficient alternative for oil
production with Sucker-Rod Pumps (SRP). Application of the new type of surface drive has proved its
high potential for production optimization and power consumption improvement with minimized risk of
failures.

Abstract: This paper presents the results of an ongoing rental project at Slavneft (a company belonging on a parity
basis to Gazpromneft and Rosneft) within 13 Licence Areas. The main target of Ultra-High-Speed ESP
implementation was to address challenges where traditional technologies become inefficient, with the main
priority given to production gain. The paper scope is focused on how production gain and power savings
were achieved.
Ultra-High-Speed ESP (UHS ESP) Systems have grown in popularity in recent years due to a set of
advantages, including power efficiency, wide operating range, robust design, etc. Once the technology
reached a level where equipment runlife became superior to standard ESPs (STD ESP), it opened new
prospects for exploring various types of business models with lease being one of them. Project scope at
Slavneft group of field required solutions for depleting reservoirs in slim casing (5.5" and 5.75"). Since
production gain was given high priority, deeper ESP installation was required.
Target KPI's uncovered the benefit of short UHS downhole string length, which allows for deeper
installation, where dogleg severity becomes critical and traditional ESP cannot be set. Preliminary results
of a three-year project with one-year qualification are as follows:
• Net production gain of 13,846 tons of oil (103,200 stb) achieved through deeper installation,
average daily production gain 23.9 %;
• Flowing bottom hole pressure reduced by 11.8 bar (24.6 %) on average;
• UHS ESPs installed deeper by average 252 m (827 ft) than previously installed standard ESP;
• Average specific power consumption optimized by 6.1 kW*h/m3 (liquid) or 23.5 %;
• Total power saved is over 1,685,553 kW*h.
This case study touches on broader aspects of the rental project, demonstrating specific topics within the
area of UHS ESP application. As technology benefits become more apparent and they offer tremendous
opportunities for production optimization, with time, the UHS ESP may completely replace standard
approach.

The results of this study and a number of other successful projects all over the world have paved the way
for a more advanced approach in Artificial Lift. Taking a step forward towards unlocking potential of every
well, the final chapter of this paper presents the results of a 7-year long project, aimed at bringing to life
a Hyper Speed ESP system, with its speed rating reaching 15,000 rpm. The Hyper Speed ESP designed to
provide ultimate solution for ESP lifted wells:
• Ready for practically any downhole conditions
• Benchmark reliability & efficiency
• Rigless live-well deployment
• Inexpensive intervention, compact & slim
Paper scope covers technological hurdles and corresponding engineering solutions.

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a three-year project at Salym Petroleum Development (50:50 joint venture
between Shell and GazPromNeft), aimed at mass field implementation of innovative Ultra-High-Speed
(UHS) ESP Systems, with over 200 installs having been done. The project was targeted to produce oil and
gas safely and efficiently and to reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
Based on the previous study [1], the key elements, identified to evaluate the technology performance
include: equipment, services and operating costs, reliability, production and HSE optimization. Continuous
analysis made during the project incorporated a few phases, with each phase followed by a detailed technical
and economical assessment. Monitoring, analysis, and optimization methodologies are detailed in several
case histories demonstrating principal outcomes of the technology implementation and pointing out its
advantages vs counterparts in use as well as limitations and recommendations.
The results of the study proved high potential of Ultra-High-Speed ESP Systems to optimize production
and to provide operational benefits under a range of production and well-fluid conditions.
Close study of project results revealed significant savings in power consumption by 40 % at an average,
improved runlife in challenging operating conditions (20% increase over other ESP suppliers), and field
operating efficiency, with installation time being reduced by 60 %.
The successful results have been achieved through the use of Ultra-High-Speed Permanent Magnet Motor
operating in a speed range from 1,000 to 12,000 rpm. Wide speed control facilitates operational adaptation
in changing conditions. Due to its high nameplate frequency (10,000 rpm) the system has shorter length
allowing for flexible setting depth selection. Innovative design along with precise manufacturing techniques
made the system tolerant to harsh environment, including solids, corrosive and gassy fluids.
As a result, UHS ESP Technology allowed for reducing TCO and improving business results in a safe
and efficient manner.
The UHS ESP systems studied in this paper represent an innovative technology targeted to provide capital
and operational savings. Project findings helped determine a target application range of the technology. The
conclusions of this paper are intended to develop guidance for selection of an artificial lift technology in
challenging operating conditions.

Abstract: Salym Petroleum Development (SPD) is a 50:50 joint venture between Shell and GazPromNeft. SPD
has been developing the Salym group of fields in Western Siberia since 2003, having now over 600 ESP
lifted wells. Salym group of fields are characterized by harsh conditions with scale & solids being the
major cause of ESP failures. Since the average Water Cut exceeded 80%, SPD was carefully reviewing
available technologies to economically produce low rate wells (<1000 bblpd) while assuring target
drawdowns and with the ability to be installed below perforations passing high DLS sections.
One of the studied technologies was the Ultra-High Speed ESP System, which is utilizing a
Permanent Magnet Motor with rotational speeds between 1,000 and 12,000 rpm. Due to its high
nameplate operating speed of 10,000 rpm, the system is significantly shorter in length (2-3 times less
compared against a conventional ESP length). Permanent magnet motors provide high power efficiency
(over 90%), and high abrasion resistance (2 g/l) is achieved with hard alloys. Innovative modular pump
design insures maximum efficiency of the system that could not be introduced to the industry in the past.
It should be noted that conventrional ESPs have a narrow operating speed range of conventional ESPs
(2400-4200 rpm).
This paper will provide a summary of the use of Ultra-High Speed ESP PMM System and refer to a
project with recent field applications as good examples of its use. The proposed technology has been
proven to be a great success at Salym Group of Fields and indications are that it has good potential to
replace conventional ESPs in both low flow rate and high flow rate applications.

Abstract: Sand production becomes more critical as the reservoir pressure depletes typically associated by water
cut, scaling and sand production intensity. Erosion rate of Electric Submersible Pump (ESP) components
tends to be ruled by pump rotating speed. Even so, strong focus on modern technological advances towards
improving pump design has made ultra-high-speed ESP compatible with sandy wells.
This paper will review several case histories demonstrating the evolution of the ultra-high-speed ESP
PMM (Permanent Magnet Motor) technology for over a decade. With a speed control ranging between 1,000
and 12,000 rpm, pump design and metallurgy were crucial aspects to focus on to ensure reliable operation
in sandy wells. Continuous equipment analysis made during trials provided guidance to improve the design,
while high-precision manufacturing techniques have made it possible to implement new solutions.
Case histories have showed high tolerance of the modern ultra-high-speed ESPs to solids in the produced
fluid. Abrasion resistance is achieved with hard alloys being applied to the pump along with innovative
modular pump design. As a result, ramp-up time has been reduced, with failure rate being minimized.
Implemented design features enabled to declare maximum solid content for ultra-high-speed ESP at higher
levels (up to 2 g/l) if compared to conventional equipment despite significantly higher nameplate speed
(10,000 rpm) of the former. Successful results of the ultra-high-speed ESPs in sandy wells demonstrate
a good example of integrating new technology developments into operation in harsh environment. These
findings may help expand an application range of the systems traditionally considered as having relatively
poor durability when exposed to sand production.
The systems studied in this paper represent a new generation of ESPs combining all the features of
operation at high speed along with abrasion resistance being normally considered as incompatible with high
RPM (rotation per minute). The conclusions of this paper are intended to provide advice when selecting
and designing an artificial lift method.

Abstract: Wellbore conditions below bubble point pressure in high gas-oil-ratio (GOR) wells result in very highamount of free gas at the inlet of Electric Submersible Pumps (ESP). Conventional multiphase pumpshave limitations handling free gas exceeding 75% intake gas-volume-fraction (GVF). The objective of thiswork is to develop and field test a new Ultra-High-Speed High-Gas-Volume-Fraction (UHS HGVF) pumpsystem. The ultimate goal is to facilitate sustained production from wells experiencing high-GVF productionchallenges.
The UHS HGVF pump is a new type of submersible pump with an architecture being investigated toboost hydrocarbon production from high GOR oil wells. The principle of operation is based on turbulentfriction, in which a spatial vortex flow is formed, rotating together with the rotor and moving along its axis.The pump housing diameter is 4.00 inches and operates at a shaft rotational speed in excess of 3.5 timesthose of conventional pump systems. Hydraulic design, computational fluid dynamics analysis, prototypingand physical testing were performed to optimize the performance of the UHS HGVF pump.
The results show that the new pump architecture is capable of handling gas-liquid mixtures with intakeGVF well beyond the 75% GVF limitation of conventional multiphase pumps. This was mainly attributedto the pump features, which impart the required amount of energy and turbulence to the gas-liquid mixturebut simultaneously minimizes separation of the gas and liquid phases. These combined effects facilitatedthorough mixing of the gas-liquid streams ensuring the pump provided sufficient pressure boost for thedownhole setting depths which the system was designed. The system was also observed to have a highcapability of sand tolerance and thrust handling. The ruggedized system has the required attributes towithstand operation in gassy field conditions.
This work presents a conceptually new approach to pump development with the aim of overcominghydrocarbon production challenges in wells with very high free gas at pump intake. The UHS HGVF pumpwidens the operating envelope to produce a high GOR well, thereby achieving production gains in gassyconditions, where conventional systems are limited. The system therefore serves as an essential artificiallift tool to handle production in increasing numbers of extremely gassy wells.