Edge Against the Ice – Autonomous Flow Diversion in the Permian
by
Kevin Kovacic – Gas Lift SME
Austin deGraaf – Boomerang
Chad Jordan
Marc McIlwain
Problem Statement – Frozen GL flowlines causing production downtime
In the Permian Basin, a prevalent approach to gas lift applications involves utilizing a single compressor to power multiple wells. For the purposes of this case study, we focus on a pad located in West Texas, where a central compressor with a 1250 mcf capacity serves three wells. The primary metrics monitored in this system include the injection rate per well and the differential pressure downstream of the compressor. The differential pressure is particularly critical, as it serves as an indicator for identifying potential pipeline freezing events. If a pipeline were to freeze, the injection pressure would have no outlet, resulting in a backup of pressure at the compressor and potentially triggering a shutdown due to excessive discharge pressure, shutting down all GL wells associated with that compressor.
Solution – Edge Computing with BoomEDGE Flow Diversion Algorithm
To mitigate this risk, we have integrated edge technology in the form of the BoomEDGE flow diversion algorithm. The edge device continuously monitors the system and is capable of detecting negative patterns, such as an abnormally low differential pressure, which may signal an impending freeze. When such a pattern is identified, the system autonomously reroutes injection pressure from the problem well to the remaining functional wells, ensuring that production is sustained while the frozen pipeline is being addressed. This diversion provides a critical solution to mitigate production losses on two wells while the affected pipeline is repaired.
Technology – Edge Computing Implementation
This solution leverages advanced edge computing to autonomously manage and control operational flow in real-time, minimizing the need for manual intervention and ensuring that the overall production system remains operational in the face of freezing events.
Value Proposition – Financial Impact
By reducing unnecessary shutdowns due to frozen pipes, it is estimated that we could prevent pad shutdowns of such occurrences.
