Analysis of sucker rod and sinkerbar failures
This paper presents results from a study to analyze the performance and failures of the sucker rod/sinkerbar string used in beam-pumping operations through metallography, structural finite element analysis, and detailed failure data collection. Metallography demonstrated that microstructure of steel bar stock needs to be considered. Current specification based on tensile strength, or yield strength, may not be appropriate since failure occurs because of fatigue and not yielding. Finite element analysis of the threaded connection identifies stress and fatigue concentrations and quantitatively assesses the performance and failure of coupling designs under a variety of loading conditions. Subcritical fractures observed in the metallography are also suggested by the calculated stress distribution in the threaded coupling. Failure data illustrates both magnitude and frequency of the failures, as well as categorizing the suspected cause of failure. This failure information alone can reduce failures by indicating specific problem areas. These results are expected to yield improved choice of metal bar stock, thread design, and make-up practices which can reduce sucker rod failures.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE; USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC04-76DP00789
- OSTI ID:
- 6694953
- Report Number(s):
- SAND-92-1711C; CONF-930486-1; ON: DE93006290
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Conference on southwest petroleum, Lubbock, TX (United States), 21-22 Apr 1993
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Analysis of sucker rod and sinkerbar failures
Analysis of sucker rod and sinkerbar failures