How can you troubleshoot common problems with gas lift systems?

1 Gas leakage

One of the most common and serious problems with gas lift systems is gas leakage, which can occur at the surface or downhole. Gas leakage can reduce the efficiency and safety of the system, as well as cause environmental and economic losses. To troubleshoot gas leakage, you need to regularly inspect the surface equipment, such as the gas compressor, injection lines, and valves, for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. You also need to measure the gas injection rate and pressure, and compare them with the expected values. If you detect any abnormality, you need to isolate the source of the leak and repair or replace the faulty component as soon as possible.

2 Valve malfunction

Another common problem with gas lift systems is valve malfunction, which can affect the performance and stability of the system. Valve malfunction can be caused by several factors, such as debris accumulation, valve erosion, spring fatigue, or mechanical damage. To troubleshoot valve malfunction, you need to check the valve operation and response, and verify that the valves are opening and closing at the right depth and pressure. You can use various methods to do this, such as acoustic or temperature logging, pressure testing, or valve retrieval. If you find any defective or stuck valve, you need to replace it with a new or refurbished one.

3 Tubing corrosion

Tubing corrosion is another problem that can affect the integrity and reliability of gas lift systems. Tubing corrosion can be caused by various factors, such as water condensation, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, or oxygen in the gas stream. Tubing corrosion can lead to tubing failure, gas leakage, or reduced flow rate. To troubleshoot tubing corrosion, you need to monitor the tubing condition and thickness, and assess the corrosion rate and severity. You can use various methods to do this, such as corrosion coupons, corrosion probes, or tubing inspection logs. If you find any severe or localized corrosion, you need to repair or replace the affected tubing section.

4 Gas quality issues

Gas quality issues are another problem that can affect the performance and efficiency of gas lift systems. Gas quality issues can be caused by various factors, such as gas contamination, gas composition changes, or gas dew point. Gas quality issues can lead to valve malfunction, tubing corrosion, or gas condensation. To troubleshoot gas quality issues, you need to analyze the gas composition and properties, and compare them with the design specifications. You can use various methods to do this, such as gas chromatography, dew point measurement, or gas sampling. If you find any deviation or anomaly, you need to adjust the gas injection rate or pressure, or treat the gas to remove the contaminants or improve the quality.