Gas lift equipment problems such as inconsistent valve performance, leaking valves, and bent/broken latches occasionally occur. To quantify the effects of jarring on valve opening pressure, leakage, and latch deflection, simulated field testing was performed on 1 in. pressure operated gas lift valves, BK-2 style latches, and associated wireline tools. The testing was done in 2-7/8 in. and in. side pocket injection mandrels positioned both vertically and at a 45° angle.

Jar-down testing simulated the setting of a valve in the mandrel pocket. During the jarring sequence, new thoroughly aged valves exhibited fairly consistent opening pressures (average variance 0.7%), but usually leaked as the pressure was bled off. Used valves that had been disassembled, cleaned, and functionally tested exhibited large opening pressure changes and also leaked significantly during jarring.

Jar-up testing simulated the retrieval of a valve lodged in a mandrel pocket. Orienting kickover tools from two manufacturers were used in a 412 in. mandrel. New BK-2 style latches made of 17-4 PH material deflected more than 0.200 in. (5.1 mm), but exhibited no significant damage.

Keywords:
retrievable gas lift equipment, fishing neck, leakage, jarring effect, upstream oil & gas, average deflection, manufacturer, artificial lift system, kickover tool, gas injection
Subjects:
Artificial Lift Systems, Formation Evaluation & Management, Gas lift, Completion Installation and Operations, Well Intervention
Copyright 1987, Society of Petroleum Engineers
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