The Artificial Lift Company (ALC) reported the installation of two rigless electrical submersible pumping (ESP) systems at the ConocoPhillips Kuparuk Field on the North Slope of Alaska.

These systems, which were field-tested for more than two years in a ConocoPhillips well in Texas, are being commercially used for the first time in Alaska. The benefits of the through tubing conveyed, slick line deployable electrical submersible pumping systems include lower operating costs and increased production capacity. These systems provide through tubing access after slick line retrieval with the added advantage of allowing replacement operations under live well conditions.

"Since this ESP doesn't require a rig, operating costs will be reduced and production capacity increased," says John Patterson, Production Engineering advisor at ConocoPhillips. "With this system we are able to remove the entire through tubing ESP, including motor, which offers the possibility of cleanout of sand below the ESP using wire line and coiled tubing without the need for a rig."

The installations took place in July following setup, preparation and testing at the ALC Alaska Deployment, Assembly, Repair and Test (DART) facility.

"ALC's successful ESP installations for ConocoPhillips Alaska are a significant milestone for the company, as it demonstrates that the technology can be deployed in multiple locations, varying geographies and difficult conditions," says Alex Kosmala, CEO of ALC. "The company is grateful to ConocoPhillips Alaska and local businesses and public entities for providing much needed support during the process. We look forward to a long and productive presence in Alaska."

Offshore