| 摘要 |
The present invention generally relates to an automated method and apparatus for operating an artificial lift well. In one aspect of the present invention, a programmable controller monitors and operates a variety of analog and digital devices. An on-cycle of the well is initiated based on a pressure differential measured between a casing pressure and a sales line pressure. When a predetermined ON pressure differential is observed, the controller initiates the on-cycle and open a motor valve to permit fluid and gas accumulated in the tubing to be urged out of the well. Thereafter, the controller initiates a mandatory flow period and maintains the motor valve open for a period of time. The valve remains open as the system transitions into the sales time period. During sales time, the controller monitors the gas flow through an orifice disposed in the sales line. A differential pressure transducer is used to measure a pressure differential across the orifice. When the measure pressure differential is less than or equal to a predetermined OFF pressure differential, the controller initiates the off cycle. The off cycle starts with a mandatory shut-in period to allow the plunger to fall back into the well. Thereafter, the well remains in the off-cycle until the controller receives a signal that the ON pressure differential has developed. In another aspect of the present invention, the controller may automatically adjust the operating parameters. After a successful cycle, the controller may decrease the predetermined ON pressure differential, increase the mandatory flow period, and/or decrease the predetermined OFF pressure differential to optimize the well's production. Additionally, adjustments may be performed if the well is shut-in before a cycle is completed.
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