FAQs

Why do oil and gas wells need artificial lift?

Artificial lift is required to produce wells at a rate in excess of what might be obtained through the natural flow of hydrocarbons from a reservoir’s pressure alone. This includes wells that flow naturally but at rates that are not economically viable.

What are the types of artificial lift pumping systems?

Types of Artificial Lift Systems

  • Sucker Rod Pump uses a system of reciprocating rods to actuate a downhole positive-displacement pump.
  • Electric Submersible Pump (ESP) is a submerged multistage centrifugal pump that is installed on the end of the production tubing. A downhole electric motor is supplied power via a cable that is run from the surface and is banded to the outside of the tubing.
  • Gas Lift uses a compressor and a system of mandrels to inject natural gas into the wellbore and lighten the column of fluid holding backpressure on the formation.
  • Progressing Cavity Pump (PCP) uses a system of rotating rods to actuate a downhole positive-displacement pump.
  • Hydraulic Jet Pump uses fluid power from a surface pump to power a downhole Venturi Pump.
What is the most common artificial lift system?

Sucker rod pumping is the most common artificial lift system. These systems are usually less expensive, but have lower production rates.

What are the advantages of using jet pumps for oil and gas production?

No moving parts in the downhole pump, so reliability is high. Jet pumps can produce sand/solids better other forms of artificial lift Jet Pump can be reverse circulated to the surface for inspection and repair. All rotating components are on the surface, so if there is a failure no workover rig is required. Running time between workovers can exceed 3 years.

What are the advantages of using Hydra-Cell Diaphragm pumps for Artificial Lift and SWD?

Hydra-Cell® Pro, positive displacement diaphragm pumps manufactured by Wanner Engineering, have a seal-less design that eliminates the need for lubricating plungers and replacing worn packing which greatly reduces maintenance and lease operating expenses. And, because these diaphragm pumps operate on the surface, they also help protect the environment by removing any risk of packing failure, which can cause a hydrocarbon spill. The pump’s leak-free operation, tolerance for abrasives and low operating costs have made it a favorite choice for saltwater disposal wells and waterflood injection wells.

What sets JJ Tech jet pumps apart in the artificial lift industry?

Historically, jet pumps have been an overlooked and underutilized technology in the oil and gas industry. Today, our improved jet pump design, combined with a number of other technical innovations, has created a wide range of new and exciting jet pump applications.

Several key performance parameters differentiate the JJ Tech jet pump process from conventional artificial lift systems. Most significantly, there are no downhole moving parts – it is not affected by hole angle deviation or corkscrew, it won’t gas lock, and it is able to lift sand. Operators can configure the equipment to be a very efficient artificial lift system – something that has always been a problem for conventional jet pump systems.

Where can I visit a location with one of JJ Tech’s installations?

Contact JJ Tech to arrange a visit.

How long has JJ Tech been in business?

JJ Tech was formed in 2002 to acquire, manufacture and market the newly-patented Coleman hydraulic jet pump. See more on JJ Tech’s history.

How deep can I run a JJ Tech jet pump?

There are really no specific depth limitations. Operators commonly run our pumps over 12,000 feet.

How long will a JJ Tech jet pump nozzle and mixing tube last?

Under normal operating conditions, we have experienced run times from 2 to 5+ years. Some have operated for over 10 years and are still going strong.

Can a JJ Tech jet pump help me size my well for an ESP?

Yes. You can lease or purchase our systems just for that reason. We can also use our equipment and software to establish a productivity index for your well.

In a frac flowback situation, is the JJ Tech jet pump placed above or below the perforations (horizontal/deviated/vertical)?

Typical frac flowback completions are “tubing on packer” installations; therefore, the jet pump will be set above the highest producing zone.

What is the difference between a Hydra-Cell diaphragm pump and a conventional multi-plex plunger pump?

The Wanner Hydra-Cell Pro diaphragm pump employs cutting-edge technology. Unlike conventional triplex plunger pumps, this patented positive displacement diaphragm pump has a seal-less design without packing or cups that can fail and interrupt production and/or compromise the environment. By eliminating contact between the pump’s internal components and abrasive materials in the pumped fluid, the diaphragm pump greatly reduces overall wear and maintenance. No external lubrication is needed for the plungers, which allows the pump to run dry indefinitely without any damage.

What is the ratio of power fluid to produced fluid in a jet pump installation?

Contrary to somewhat popular belief, there is no standard ratio. Well conditions, the most critical being producing bottomhole pressure and gas-to-liquid ratio.

What is power fluid? (type of fluid)

Power fluid consists of either produced water or oil.

Why would I run a reverse flow jet pump as opposed to a normal flow jet pump?

You can use a reverse flow jet pump to protect the casing in wells containing hydrogen sulfide and to avoid sand settling out on the packer.

Responsive, high-level customer service is vital to my business. Can we expect a guarantee of that kind of service from JJ Tech?

JJ Tech knows that good customer service is in the best interest of both parties. That’s why our Commitments Statement emphasizes superior after-sale support that earns customer confidence.