In reciprocating rod pumping systems, analysis of dynamometer-card data can deliver valuable insight into the status of the pump, and can indicate if future action is required. The complete paper explains the steps taken to improve surveillance of beam pumps using dynamometer-card data and machine-learning techniques, and reviews lessons learned from executing the operator’s first artificial intelligence (AI) project.
Background
The oldest and most widely used method of artificial lift is called beam pumping, or the sucker-rod lift method. A dynamometer is a device used on beam pumps that measures load on the polished rod (top) and plots the load in relation to the rod position as the pumping unit moves through a stroke cycle. This plot is known as the surface card.
A pump card is a plot of load vs.
