Abstract
The deployment of artificial lift systems is fundamental in extending the productive lifespan of unconventional fields. Rod lift systems, among the most prevalent artificial lift mechanisms, typically follow standardized deployment procedures globally. However, unique challenges in certain wells necessitate deviations from conventional practices. This paper describes the design, planning, and execution strategies employed in the successful deployment of continuous rod lift systems under challenging well conditions, while also disseminating lessons learned to refine future procedures. Rod lift pumping, a basis of artificial lift methodologies, symbolizes the oil industry with its conventional surface units. Despite its widespread application, introducing this technology in certain environments presents novel challenges due to unique well conditions, rigorous safety regulations, and pre-established operational standards. Adverse conditions such as high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and significant gas-liquid ratios, compounded by internal safety and operational mandates, pose substantial complications in the installation of rod lift systems, whether standard sucker rods or continuous rods. A novel deployment strategy, integrating custom-designed pressure control equipment stack, was developed to navigate these obstacles effectively, ensuring safe and efficient well completion. An extensive period of discussion on overcoming the multifaceted challenges of well conditions, followed by a meticulous equipment selection and procurement phase, culminated in the successful deployment of the Rod Lift system under full pressure containment. This breakthrough has laid the groundwork for subsequent installations, signifying a crucial advancement in the artificial lift program. The innovative aspect of this procedure is its adaptation to complex well conditions within a shale play, marking a significant departure from traditional artificial lift system implementations. The insights gleaned from this endeavor offer valuable guidance for future rod lift system deployments in the under same challenging conditions.
