The design of continuous gas-lift installations has been examined in detail. Procedures are outlined showing how system analysis can be used to select optional components including tubing size, flowline size, surface operating pressure, perforation shot density, etc. An improved procedure is presented for the construction of the gas-lift performance curve, based on the gas injection rate rather than the GLR. Also, the importance of using the actual gas-lift valve performance relationship rather than the Thornhill Craver choke equation is addressed. It is shown that utilization of the Thornhill Craver choke equation can result in serious design errors. The two most commonly used unloading design procedures are examined with modifications and improvements being recommended. Finally, it is shown how software for the personal computer can be used to readily implement these ideas.

You can access this article if you purchase or spend a download.