Cost-Effective and Innovative Well Offloading and Testing: A Jet Pump Success Story from Iraq

Abstract

As the petroleum industry navigates increasing economic pressures, operators continue to seek cost-effective production solutions that do not compromise safety or operational efficiency. One such solution is the application of jet pump technology, which offers a rigless, flexible method for well offloading and testing. This paper presents a field case from Iraq where a jet pump was successfully implemented as an alternative to traditional coiled tubing and nitrogen-based offloading, demonstrating strong performance in terms of both flow assurance and cost savings.

In 2023, a newly drilled well targeting three distinct production zones in southern Iraq was evaluated for its inflow potential. Historically, wells in this region were offloaded using coiled tubing combined with nitrogen injection, a common but costly approach that involves logistical complexities and long mobilization times (Lea et al., 2008). For this operation, the engineering team selected a hydraulic jet pump system designed using Jet Evaluation and Modeling Software (JEMS), which enabled precise nozzle and throat sizing tailored to wellbore pressure, temperature, and fluid properties (Pugh, 2009).

The jet pump was deployed via slickline, offering a low-risk, non-intrusive deployment method. High-pressure power fluid was injected down the annulus, while produced fluids were returned through the tubing. Production zone testing was executed by sequentially opening individual Sliding Sleeve Doors (SSDs), allowing controlled unloading and isolated flow assessment from each zone. The system achieved a peak production rate of approximately 2,200 barrels per day (BPD), well above initial design targets.

In terms of cost and operational impact, the jet pump system significantly outperformed conventional nitrogen lift. The use of rigless installation and surface-based parameter tuning eliminated the need for nitrogen tankers and reduced rig time by seven days, contributing to an overall cost savings of over 500% when compared to previous nitrogen-based operations in the same field. The field team would also be able to change nozzle and throat configurations on-site, further optimizing drawdown and pump efficiency. This level of flexibility is a well-documented advantage of jet pump systems, especially in early production scenarios or wells with high water cut and unstable flow regimes (Takács, 2015; Brown, 1977).

This study reinforces the economic and operational benefits of jet pumps for initial well unloading and production evaluation. Their ability to be rapidly deployed, adjusted, and retrieved without a rig gives them an edge over conventional artificial lift techniques during early well life. In replacing nitrogen offloading, jet pumps not only reduce cost but also improve control over flowback and data acquisition. The findings from this case provide a practical and scalable model for other operators seeking to transition from conventional nitrogen kick-off to jet pump-based well stimulation strategies.