Artificial Lift Oil Pumping API Rod Insert Pump

Artificial Lift API Rod Insert Pump description

API recognizes two main types of pumps: rod and tubing. Rod pumps also are called insert pumps because they are run (inserted) in the production tubing. Tubing pumps are so named because the working barrel of this pump is coupled with the production-tubing string.

There is a wide range of plunger (or pump-bore) sizes standardized by the industry. The API pump-bore sizes that are currently available range from 1 1/16 to 3 3/4 in. in diameter. This 1 1/16-in. size has been added back in the latest edition of the standard. Additionally, a new barrel type has been accepted in the latest API Spec. 11AX. This is the "X-type" barrel. It has a thin-walled barrel configuration for threads on either end of the heavy-walled barrel and is available for metal plungers only. This type of pump does not require the extension couplings normally needed for heavy-walled barrel pumps. Thus, this pump reduces the burst or collapse concerns of the thin-walled extension couplings and allows deeper producing depths to be attained.

Technical parameter list

Pumps for sucker-rod lifted wells should be selected on the basis of numerous variables that are provided by the well, the operating conditions, and the life of the pump. The main variables to consider are as follows:

• Well depth
• Bottomhole temperature
• Fluid viscosity
• Amount and size of particulates in the produced fluids
• Produced-fluids corrosivity
• Required production rate vs. pump capacity
• Fluid-specific gravity
• Casing/tubing size
• Well-completion type
• Gas/liquid ratio (GLR)
• Pump-intake pressure vs. fluid bubblepoint
• Spare/surplus pumps and components
• New purchase and repair costs

Product photos