A PCP solution to optimize oil production in multiphase conditions

In Oil & Gas operations, handling multiphase fluids — combining oil, gas, and sometimes water or solids — remains a key challenge.

PCM recently supported an operator facing high backpressure in flowlines, caused by long distances between well pads and processing facilities. This limitation reduced drawdown and directly impacted production rates.

PCP Installed in Multiphase Boosting Application

Lower wellhead pressure, higher production

By installing an API 676 compliant progressing cavity pump (PCP) equipped with PCM Slugger technology, the operator reduced wellhead pressure from 15–20 bar down to approximately 1 bar.

This resulted in:

  • improved well performance
  • reduced stress on downhole equipment
  • up to 7% increase in oil production

 

Designed for complex multiphase fluids

Unlike traditional systems combining pumps, compressors, and separators, PCP technology can efficiently handle:

  • viscous heavy oil
  • high gas fractions (up to 88%)
  • fluctuating production conditions

PCM Slugger technology enhances reliability by stabilizing the internal pressure gradient, ensuring extended pump lifetime even in high gas environments.

 

Proven reliability and long-term performance

After several years of operation:

  • no major maintenance required
  • no performance degradation observed
  • automatic speed adjustment via VSD

This solution delivers sustainable production optimization while reducing operational costs.

 

Read the full case study to learn more