Vision System - A New Way to Track Stem Travel for Gas-Lift Valves

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

A method for tracking and accurately measuring the stem position of a nitrogen-charged gas-lift valve has been developed. To achieve this goal, a new measuring approach was created for recording and processing stem movement, with no valve intrusion. Stem behavior was recorded for comparison to state-of-the-art stem tracing measuring methods. Differences of less than 5% between the developed Vision System and a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) were observed. The final apparatus was validated as a reliable tool for the determination of the stem position during load rate tests, becoming a powerful asset for the determination of gas lift valves performance. Compared to API procedures, the Vision System is a considerably simpler and faster alternative, that also enables further understanding of the valve behavior during tests, with direct implications to their use in the field.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

SPE Annual Technical Conference Proceedings

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