Prior to leaving location it is recommended that a well test is carried out to the Electrical Submersible Pump using a dedicated test separator with the rig on site.
This will ensure that any immediate problems can be rectified without having to move a rig back. In addition the use of a dedicated test separator with crew and the vendor engineer will enable accurate well testing to be carried out under controlled conditions. The well should be produced at several different rates within the recommended Electrical Submersible Pump range to verify the pump curve and identify problems (such as phase reversal). Care must be taken during the initial start up that sufficient fluid flow is generated from the formation to cool the Electrical Submersible Pump motor. For a depleted reservoir, with the well standing full, significant time may pass before flow from the formation is initiated. This should be calculated beforehand, discussed with the vendor representative and if necessary the unloading carried out in stages. Surveillance of the installation during the initial test is the responsibility of the vendor engineer but should include monitoring of downhole pressures and condition monitoring of the motor if available.