automated flow control, each can be controlled individually. The field is optimized
because changing the set point of one
well does not affect the set point of the
rest of the wells. This optimization helps
to balance the use of natural gas, lowering the overall gas usage and increasing
field oil production (Figure 8).
Unlike conventional automated gas-lift natural gas injection systems, an
integrated system fits into existing piping through replacement of the manual
choke valve with a single piece of
equipment. This is in contrast to the
multiple pieces and separate network
of a conventional system. By using one
piece of equipment installation, time
and complexity is significantly
reduced. Most integrated solutions are
also pretuned and ready to receive a
setpoint signal, and some include
advanced diagnostics to troubleshoot
any system issue. Often, the face-to-face dimensions of the integrated solution match the manual valve, which
eliminates the need for re-piping.
As a consequence of the simpler
installation and setup, the facility
reduces downtime and minimizes lost
productivity, which directly affect the
payback period of the installation. No
complex systems for data acquisition
and transmission are required, speeding
up control to eliminate the surging and
slugging still common with conventional
automated gas-lift systems.
INTEGRATED CONTROL
VALVE SYSTEMS BOOST ROI
With “easy oil” diminished and the price
of oil trending upward, it makes good
engineering and business sense to optimize the gas-lift process by installing an
integrated flow control gas injection system over manual choke or conventional
automated control valve systems.
This is because an integrated solution
decreases the consumption of gas and
energy while increasing the recovery
rates of the oil and gas. Under the right
circumstances, a return on investment
can be realized in a matter of days,
paving the way for a boost in revenue
and reduction of costs. VM
BRENT T. STEWART, BSChE, is oil and gas industry
manager, Flowserve Flow Control Division,
Springville, UT. Reach him at bstewart@
flowserve.com. BRADFORD HAINES, BSME, is
senior project manager, Flowserve Flow Control
Division, Springville, UT. Reach him at bbhaines@
flowserve.com.
