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Pedro Eduardo Milano (Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering)
Dynamic Performance of the Pilot Gas-Lift Valve
(93 pp.- Chapter VIII)
Directed by Dr. Dale Doty and Dr. Mauricio Prado
(172 words)

This study provides two models fo r predicting the dynamic behavior of the one-inch Merla pilot valve (WFM-14R). These models, based on extensive testing, should be tools for designing more efficient intermittent gas-lift oil production facilities.

After experimental flow data were gathered in the TUALP Dynamic Test Facility, orifice flow regime was identified when gas passed through this pilot valve. A modified model was developed to better predict this dynamic flow performance. This model incorporates a new experimentally determined discharge coefficient, and a new coefficient to determine the pressure in the minimum area. The new flow model predicts the experimental data with excellent accuracy.

Actual intermittent gas-lift designs take into consideration equations in which the model behavior of the pilot valve is based on static conditions, predicting only the opening pressure of the valve but not the closing pressure under dynamic conditions. In this study, a new model is developed, based on dynamic tests, to precisely predict the closing pressure when the internal components of the valve are exposed to a moving gas.

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Last updated September 04, 2012