Field Application of Wireless Communication Technology for Sucker-Rod Pumping Wells in Oilfields

Abstract

Rod pumping wells account for approximately 45% of oil production wells worldwide. How to obtain downhole data in a low-cost and accurate manner to support production system optimization remains a widespread industry challenge. This paper presents a novel wellbore pressure sensing and wireless communication technology. The underlying principle involves transmitting data acquired by downhole sensors to the surface via sucker rods using load pulses, thereby establishing a reliable channel for downhole data uplink. The study focuses on the challenges encountered and results achieved during pilot tests conducted in the mature, high water-cut reservoirs of Oilfield, China. To date, the technology has been deployed in 26 wells, enabling the daily acquisition of downhole pressure data. In Test Well A (depth: 1191 m; Φ44 mm tubing pump; pump setting depth: 962 m; stroke length: 3 m), the pre-test pumping speed was 5.2 strokes per minute (SPM). After 20 days of stable operation, downhole pressure dropped to 0.71 MPa, and surface dynamometer cards indicated insufficient liquid supply. Consequently, operators adjusted the pumping speed from 7 SPM to 5 SPM. Post-adjustment, the pressure stabilized at approximately 1.31 MPa, pump efficiency increased from 41.12% to 53.58%, and daily energy consumption decreased by roughly 28.6%. In Test Well B (depth: 1212 m; Φ57 mm tubing pump; 6 SPM), surface signal identification proved difficult. Analysis revealed that the large pump diameter combined with high pumping speed caused internal pressure shocks, preventing the effective generation of load signals. This indicates a need to optimize the downhole signal generation tool to enhance signal stability under such conditions. In Test Well C (depth: 1246 m), monthly fluctuations in downhole pressure were observed. The initial pressure of 3 MPa dropped to 0.5 MPa after 30 days of production, surged to 3.1 MPa, and then declined to 0.4 MPa after another 25 days. The well exhibits a pattern of sudden pressure changes and remains under observation. Over the past two years, implementation in 53 wells has demonstrated the technology's advantages, including a simple structure and low cost. It currently possesses a wireless uplink capability of 1000 m. By acquiring continuous, real-time downhole pressure data, it provides a basis for adjusting production parameters. Compared to wired data transmission, this technology is expected to reduce comprehensive costs by over 50%, demonstrating broad application prospects. The wellbore sensing and wireless communication technology presented in this paper represents an exploration of new directions in oil and gas field development, offering valuable technical reference and insights for industry peers.