Weatherford releases new long-stroke pumping unit

The new Rotaflex long-stroke pumping unit leverages decades of field experience to provide operators with an easy-to-maintain, high-performance option for producing challenging wells. Image: Weatherford International.

HOUSTON -- Weatherford International plc announced the commercial release of a new Rotaflex long-stroke pumping unit that improves artificial-lift efficiency in challenging applications including deep, high-volume and high gas-to-liquids wells.

The new Rotaflex design extends the functionality of a field-proven technology with more than 10,000 installations worldwide. The units apply long pump strokes—up to 36.5 ft—that allow more time for fluids to enter the pump intake before being lifted to surface. By delivering fewer strokes per barrel at a constant velocity, the Rotaflex design increases equipment run life, mitigates downhole failures and decreases deferred production.

The latest version of the Rotaflex unit adds numerous features that improve lift efficiency, including a purpose-built 350-series gear reducer and enhanced top drum. The unit also includes numerous enhancements that improve reliability and maintainability, including a built-in rollback system, greater accessibility, an enhanced lubrication system and a revised ladder system.