Abstract
The idea of using serial arrangements of sucker rod pumps to efficiently produce heavy oil wells with high gas to oil ratio has been analyzed in Venezuela since 1996. However, models to calculate the dimensions of the required plungers have not been presented in previous literature. An analytical model is presented in this work, based on the geometry of the pumps and the properties of the fluids to be handled. This model was validated using experimental data acquired in a reduced scale test bench, where machine oil and air were used as pumped fluids. A good performance of the dynamic model predicting dina-graphic card was observed. It was also found that the static model was useful for determining the application window of any arrangement. At the same time, a poor performance of the flow model through valves was observed due to the simplifications assumed on the model of the process.
