Dynamical Study of Quasi-Steady Conditions for Startup Operations of Electrical Submersible Pumps

Abstract Electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) are subject to several failure modes that are well documented in the industry. Startup conditions have seen a lot of improvement over the past decade, with new generations of the variable speed drive (VSD) and controllers avoiding harmful frequencies to the system. Subsequently, ramping protocols are important to achieve safe and optimal pump operation. The present paper discusses the requirements to achieve a smooth and reliable startup of ESPs based on dynamical considerations. The analysis evaluates both mechanical and electrical constraints and their implications on a safe ramping procedure. It was found that a combination of different loads on the pump shaft can result in unwanted dynamical loads that could compromise the pump's operational reliability. It is shown that startup protocols close to the natural motor resistance are beneficial for a smooth and reliable rampup without compromising the system's stability.