Abstract
The distance to the fluid level provides beneficial information throughout the life of a gas-lift well. From the initial unloading of the well, to maintaining production, and even into troubleshooting the well, the location of the fluid level plays a crucial role in understanding the well's performance.
Some of the most valuable fluid level shots occur during the unloading process, when the fluid level is compared to the gas injection depth. Fluid levels can be used to help determine whether a problem is occurring within the wellbore or due to equipment malfunction. A quick surface measurement determines valves below the fluid level are not injecting gas. Finding holes in the tubing string and location of any restrictions in the tubing or casing help identify problems impacting production. During a workover, monitoring the fluid levels of a well filled with kill fluid ensures sufficient hydrostatic pressure is maintained against the formation. In gas-lift wells without a packer, producing bottomhole pressures can be accurately measured using an acoustic fluid level instrument. Bottomhole pressure information is useful in designing and operating gas-lift installations and measuring overall producing efficiency1 .
Examples of fluid level shots on gas-lifted wells will be used to demonstrate these concepts. Acoustic fluid levels acquired on gas-lift wells provide a low cost, direct method to observe the well and benefit the operator through knowledge of the well's producing conditions.
