ESP Protectors: Main Parameters and Series

Discuss ESP seal sections and protectors. Engineering forum on motor oil expansion, mechanical seal reliability, and moisture prevention in Artificial Lift
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ALSEngineer
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ESP Protectors: Main Parameters and Series

Post by ALSEngineer »

ESP Protectors (seal sections) protect motors from well fluid, equalize motor internal pressure, and compensate for oil volume changes during work.

The protector (seal section) is a vital component of the ESP system, positioned between the motor and the pump. It serves four primary functions:
  • Torque Transmission: Transmitting torque from the motor shaft to the pump.
  • Motor Protection: Preventing well fluid ingress into the motor.
  • Pressure Equalization: Balancing internal motor pressure with the external wellbore pressure.
  • Oil Compensation: Compensating for the thermal expansion and contraction of the dielectric oil.
Design Principles of ESP Protectors:
  • All protector types feature a monoblock design;
  • All protectors are compatible with submersible electric motors (right-hand shaft rotation) from any manufacturer;
  • The protector can be manufactured with an integrated intake module and suction screen;
  • Any protector type can be produced in a corrosion-resistant version (K);
  • Any protector type can be produced in a high-temperature version (T1). Such protectors are operable in well fluid temperatures up to 170°C (338°F);
  • Protectors utilize mechanical seals from leading domestic and foreign manufacturers;
  • Equipped with bypass check valves to bleed off excess internal pressure and remove free gas phases from the motor oil cavity during ESP operation;
  • Protector shafts are made of high-strength stainless steel;
  • The design includes a filter-cooler intended for filtering and cooling the oil in the thrust bearing area;
  • Presence of a reinforced thrust bearing assembly to absorb the axial load from the pump.
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