Case Study: Shell extends ESP run life with SLB pump protection system

Shell Extends ESP Run Life by 35% While Reducing Solids-Related Shutdowns and Improving Restarts Texas

Shell worked with SLB in the Wolfcamp Shale, Delaware Basin, to address persistent sand damage, downtime, and short ESP run life in its wells. Shell wanted to improve downhole sand separation, reduce workovers and production deferment, and extend ESP performance beyond the 3 to 6 months it had typically seen with conventional desanders.

SLB implemented a pump protection system using a 3D filter, MeshRite stainless steel wool screen, and PumpGuard intake screen and valve assembly to filter sand and solids before they reached the ESP. Across five test wells, SLB helped Shell increase ESP run life by an average of 35%, cut solids-related ESP shutdowns by more than 90%, and improve ESP restart success by 32%, while maintaining production and improving overall uptime.

Shell