Understanding Motor Failures in the Oil and Gas Industry:
In the oil and gas industry, the reliability of Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESPs) is critical to maintaining consistent production. However, ESPs often face harsh operating conditions that can lead to various types of failures. According to a detailed analysis presented in the paper “A Data-Based Reliability Analysis of ESP Failures in Oil Production Wells,” approximately 18% of all ESP failures are attributed specifically to motor failures. Understanding these motor-related failures is essential for improving the design, operation, and maintenance of ESPs in oil production.
Motor failures are the second most common type of failure in ESP systems, accounting for 18% of total failures. These failures can be particularly disruptive, leading to costly downtimes and expensive repairs. The study identifies several key factors that contribute to motor failures in ESPs:
Cause: Overload failures occur when the motor draws excessive current, often due to factors like an improperly sized motor, unexpected increases in the specific gravity of the fluid being pumped, or inconsistent motor voltage.
Impact: The excessive current draw causes the motor to overheat, which can damage internal components and lead to a complete failure of the motor. Overheating is a critical issue because it not only reduces the efficiency of the motor but also significantly shortens its lifespan.
Early Warning Signs: The study found that in cases of motor overload, there are usually observable trends in wellhead pressure and motor temperature. For example, wellhead pressure may drop as the motor struggles to handle the increased load, while motor temperature begins to rise days before the failure. Monitoring these parameters can provide early warnings, allowing operators to take corrective actions before a catastrophic failure occurs.
Cause: High motor temperature is another leading cause of motor failures in ESPs. This issue typically arises when the motor is subjected to excessive voltage or current, causing it to operate at temperatures beyond its design limits. Additionally, factors such as insufficient cooling or blockages in the motor’s cooling system can exacerbate the problem.
Impact: Persistent high temperatures can cause thermal degradation of the motor’s insulation and other critical components, leading to short circuits or mechanical failures. The paper highlights that overheating is particularly dangerous because it often occurs gradually, making it harder to detect until it is too late.
Early Warning Signs: Analyzing data trends, the study notes that increasing motor temperature is often preceded by a rise in motor current and voltage. These indicators usually begin to show deviations from normal levels about one to two days before a failure, signaling that preventive maintenance or operational adjustments are needed.
Cause: Electrical imbalances, such as phase unbalance or under-voltage, can also lead to motor failures. These conditions typically result from issues with the power supply or wiring problems. In the case of under-voltage, the motor may not receive adequate power, leading to inefficient operation and eventual overheating.
Impact: Electrical imbalances place additional stress on the motor, causing it to operate inefficiently and increasing the likelihood of overheating and failure. Phase unbalance, for instance, can cause the motor to vibrate excessively, leading to mechanical wear and premature failure.
Early Warning Signs: The paper points out that electrical imbalances often manifest as fluctuations in motor voltage and current well before a failure occurs. Monitoring these parameters can help operators identify and rectify issues before they escalate into more serious problems.
To mitigate motor failures, it is essential to implement robust monitoring and maintenance strategies. The paper emphasizes the importance of real-time data analysis and the use of predictive maintenance techniques. By closely monitoring key parameters such as motor temperature, current, and voltage, operators can identify potential issues early and take corrective actions to prevent failures.
Additionally, ensuring that motors are appropriately sized for their applications and that power supplies are stable and well-regulated can help reduce the risk of overloads and electrical imbalances. Regular maintenance, including the cleaning and inspection of cooling systems, is also crucial to maintaining motor reliability.
Motor failures in ESPs pose a significant challenge in the oil and gas industry, but with careful monitoring and proactive maintenance, many of these issues can be prevented. The insights provided by this research highlight the importance of understanding the specific causes of motor failures and the value of early detection through advanced monitoring techniques.
For further details, you can access the full paper: Al-Ballam, S., Karami, H., & Devegowda, D. (2022). “A Data-Based Reliability Analysis of ESP Failures in Oil Production Wells.” Journal of Energy and Power Technology, 4(4), 2204036. DOI: 10.21926/jept.2204036
