Moyno has been evaluating the viability of progressing cavity pumps in multiphase fluid transfer applications for over 10 years. In the beginning, standard units were used but did not achieve original installation objectives. To determine the modifications necessary to make the pumps effective for multiphase applications, and to establish whether or not the modified pumps could handle gas void fractions up to 99%, two formal test programs were initiated.

Laboratory Testing

The National Science Foundation Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Corrosion in Multiphase Systems at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio conducted testing to identify what modifications to a progressing cavity pump were necessary in order to assure continuous operation under conditions with gas void fractions up to 99%.

Laboratory Test Arrangement.

Laboratory testing yielded the following conclusions:

• Moyno progressing cavity pumps can be modified to operate satisfactorily in applications with high gas void fractions (99%).
• Alterations in design and materials of construction provided maximum stator temperatures well within acceptable parameters.
• Maximum stator temperatures were a function of pump speed, gas volume fraction, discharge pressure and the pressure ratio.

Field Testing (Mobile Test Rig Equipment Skid)

In order to confirm the laboratory test results, a comprehensive field testing program was set up. It involved the design, fabrication and operation of a mobile test rig by the Alberta Research Council. The second objective was to test the system's ability to enhance well production.

Field and lab test results concurred. The Moyno® Tri-Phaze System was able to handle high gas surges and during the time that the test rig operated as a booster pump, wellhead pressures were reduced, and the average oil production for the satellite increased. One of the many benefits of the Moyno® Tri-Phaze System is improved oilfield production.