Artificial Lift Installation for Gas Well Liquid Loading
Project Overview
JJM personnel were engaged to provide asset support services to an onshore gas operator including production optimisation and reservoir surveillance. Routine well monitoring, including surface gas sampling (SGS) analysis and tubing inflow performance modelling, identified that declining reservoir pressure and increasing condensate production were causing liquid loading within the well. The condition was expected to significantly reduce gas recovery if left unaddressed. JJM personnel were therefore tasked with identifying and implementing an appropriate artificial lift solution to restore well productivity and maximise ultimate gas recovery.
Project Details
Location: Queensland, Australia
Industry: Conventional Oil and Gas
Scope: Well Engineering, Completion Design, Project Management
Scope of Work
Reservoir surveillance and production performance analysis
Tubing inflow performance modelling to assess liquid loading impacts
Development of an options analysis evaluating artificial lift and well completion technologies
Preparation of a basis of design for the selected artificial lift system
Development of detailed equipment specifications and material selection documentation
Procurement and tender management for supply of materials, equipment and services
Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) for the new production process configuration
Installation and commissioning of subsurface and surface artificial lift equipment
Asset team training on operation and maintenance of the installed system
Key Challenges
Managing liquid loading conditions resulting from declining reservoir pressure and increased condensate production
Selecting an artificial lift technology suitable for the well configuration and production characteristics
Integrating new artificial lift equipment into existing well and surface infrastructure
Maintaining safe operations during installation and commissioning of new equipment
Ensuring the selected solution delivered long-term economic production performance improvements
Outcome
The artificial lift system was successfully installed and commissioned, enabling the well to be returned to stable production. The intervention mitigated liquid loading conditions and restored gas deliverability while supporting improved ultimate recovery from the reservoir. The project was delivered safely, on schedule and within budget, and provided the operator with a reliable production optimisation solution supported by trained operational personnel.