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Current TUALP Research
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Experiments and CFD Simulation of ESP Sand Erosion
PI: Saul Gomez, Research Assistant, PhD Student
Objectives:
• Experimental observation of sand erosion and measurement of pump performance
• CFD simulations of sand particle distribution and trajectory in ESP
• Compare simulation and experimental results to identify vulnerable areas in an ESP
Abstract:
Sand erosion is a great challenge to the reliability and life expectancy of electrical submersible pumps (ESP). Erosion also causes degradation of ESP performance. In this study, CFD simulations will be carried out with the selected sand particle sub closure relationships to investigate the sand particle distribution and trajectories in the ESP flow. Experiments will be conducted to observe the erosion rates under different flow conditions and sand sizes, properties and concentrations. The ESP performance will be measured. Stages with different designs and materials may be tested simultaneously as they are arranged in series in an ESP. The experimental results will be compared with the CFD simulations. Areas in an ESP vulnerable to sand erosion will be identified. Recommendations will be made for better handling of sand erosion problems.
Last updated October 07, 2013