Artificial lift guides
Plain-language explanations of how artificial lift equipment works, how it is specified and how to read what it tells you, from the engineers who build it.
A free-travelling plunger uses the well's own gas to carry liquid to surface. Here is the cycle step by step, the equipment that runs it, and how to tell if a well is a good fit.
Read the guide Downhole pump guideSucker rod pumps and API 11AX designations explainedThe downhole pump is where a rod pumping system actually lifts fluid. This guide covers how its two valves work, every main part, how to read an API 11AX pump code, and how to estimate its output.
Read the guide Pumping unit guideAPI 11E pumping unit sizes explainedEvery API beam pumping unit carries a code like C-456D-305-168. It tells you the unit's geometry, gearbox torque, structural load and stroke. Here is how to read it and how the three ratings guide your choice.
Read the guide Jet pump guideHow a hydraulic jet pump worksA jet pump lifts oil with no moving parts downhole, using high-pressure fluid pumped from surface. Here is how the nozzle, throat and diffuser work together, how the power fluid gets there and back, and where a jet pump beats the alternatives.
Read the guide Rod pump diagnostics guideHow to read a dynamometer cardA dynamometer card plots polished rod load against position for every stroke. Its shape shows what the downhole pump is doing. Here is how to read one and spot the common problems.
Read the guide Artificial lift selection guideChoosing an artificial lift methodNo single lift method suits every well. This guide compares the main options side by side and walks through the well conditions that usually decide the choice.
Read the guide