Achieving the Extraordinary: Lessons from Record-Breaking ESP Run Life that Help in Improving the Oil Recovery (IOR) in Block 5

Abstract Daleel Petroleum Company operates in Block 5, located in northern Oman, producing light oil from relatively tight and thin carbonate reservoirs. To sustain production, Beam Pump (BP) and Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESPs) used as the primary artificial lift systems. This paper presents an in-depth study of ESPs exhibiting exceptional longevity, analyzing data from wells where ESPs have significantly exceeded typical operational lifespans, with durations ranging from 2295 to 6174 days. The study aims to identify and evaluate factors contributing to these extended run lives, offering insights by comparing long-life ESPs to those with average or shorter operational periods and examining the added operational value. The extended reliability and durability of ESPs are essential for maintaining continuous oil production and optimizing field performance. Extending the run life of these pumps reduces the need for interventions, thereby minimizing both production downtime and associated costs. This study evaluates field data from multiple wells, this study assesses pump specifications, reservoir conditions, and best operational practices that contribute to ESP longevity. Notable commonalities among high-performing ESPs include appropriately sized motors that meet well requirements with minimal mechanical strain, as well as the use of real-time monitoring system "SmartPortal". Smart portal, utilizing effectively exceptional bases surveillances system (EBS) which has the ability of setting healthy limits for varies critical pump parameters, such: intake pressure, discharge pressure tubing head pressure and casing pressure, allowing for timely, proactive responses when one of the parameters deviates outside the healthy limits that resulted in enhanced pump life. Furthermore, the analysis shows that ESPs operating in wells with stable reservoir pressures and low gas- to-oil ratios (GOR), achieved through effective water flood practices, demonstrate longer lifespans than those subject to highly variable or challenging conditions. The extended run life of ESPs in Daleel Petroleum's Block 5 wells has resulted in substantial operational and financial gains. The decrease in the failure rate of the ESPs from 28% to 13% has improved production stability, while fewer interventions have minimized production disruptions and contributed to improved overall efficiency. The findings underscore that achieving extended ESP run life is feasible through a combination of high-quality equipment, strategic operational practices, and favorable environmental conditions. By leveraging advanced monitoring solutions and tailoring installations to meet specific well conditions, operators can further optimize ESP performance and extend pump longevity. This study provides a framework for enhancing ESP operations and serves as a guide for future strategies aimed at achieving longer pump lifespans, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in similar fields.