Vol. 337 No. 2 (2026)
DOI https://doi.org/10.18799/24131830/2026/2/5060
Methodology for assessing the rate of salt deposition growth on the housing of a submersible electric motor
Relevance. Problem of salt deposition in downhole equipment, particularly on the housings of submersible electric motors, is one of the most critical issues in the operation of oil wells during the late stages of development, as the water cut of the produced well fluid increases. Salt deposition leads to impaired heat exchange, overheating of submersible electric motors, and reduction in their operational lifespan. In recent years, numerous methods and software tools were developed to model salt formation processes; however, existing approaches often fail to account for all dynamic aspects that can significantly impact equipment efficiency. Despite advancements in salt deposition modeling, the task of improving prediction methods and accounting for these processes remains relevant, as it can significantly enhance the reliability and durability of submersible electric motors while reducing operational risks. Aim. To develop a methodology for assessing the rate of salt deposition on submersible electric motor housings, analyze the impact of well operational characteristics, and calculate hydraulic and thermal characteristics based on the proposed approach. Results and key findings. The authors propose a methodology for assessing the rate of salt deposition on the housing of a submersible electric motor. The methodology was tested on well A of oil field N, where issues related to salt deposition were recorded, leading to submersible electric motor failure. It was demonstrated that the deterioration of heat exchange between the submersible electric motors and the produced fluid flow causes motor overheating and subsequent failure. The obtained results can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of flow inhibition, analyze electrodynamic characteristics, and perform thermal and hydraulic calculations for the well. The developed solution can be integrated into a comprehensive engineering system as a proxy tool, for example, for a virtual flow meter of an electric submersible pump unit, significantly improving its accuracy and functionality.
Keywords:
salt deposition, submersible electric motor, annular space cross-section, supply network frequency of submersible electric motors, heat transfer coefficient of submersible electric motors
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