When the going gets tough

With the accelerating shift to cleaner sources of energy, geothermal resources are gaining in importance worldwide. Like oil wells, geothermal wells may require electric submersible pump (ESP) systems to keep producing. However, the harsh environment presents many challenges.

• High temperatures can degrade ESP components, such as seals, motors, and electrical cables.
• Deep setting depths challenge deployment.
• Geothermal fluids often contain minerals and chemicals that can cause scaling or corrosion, damaging the ESP and reducing its efficiency.
• Fluctuating downhole pressure can lead to pump inefficiencies or mechanical wear.
• Abrasive solids in geothermal fluids can shorten pump life.
• Presence of steam or gas can hinder the performance of ESPs, which are designed primarily for pumping liquids.
• Extreme heat and pressure can affect electrical and mechanical reliability.

SLB provides specially designed high-temperature ESPs with advanced materials and configurations to withstand such demanding conditions.