Sucker rods connect a surface pumping unit to the downhole components of a pumping system in an oil and gas well. They are typically steel rods 25 to 30 feet in length, but fiberglass rods of differing lengths are also produced. The first string attached to the pumping unit is a polished rod that reciprocates through a stuffing box providing a liquid-tight seal. Shorter sections of sucker rods referred to as 'pony rods' are used to assemble the rod string to its required overall length.
Pumpjacks, or "horsehead pumps," are ubiquitous in oil well operations when a well does not naturally flow on its own. Artificial lift can be used to generate flow, either from a well with no flow or to intensify the flow in a low-flow, naturally producing well. Most oil wells will require artificial lift at some point in time. These pump systems consist of a motor or engine, a crank, a walking beam, a horsehead, and a hanger/rod string that connects with the sucker rods and pump.
Sucker rods are the mechanical components that transmit power from the horsehead pumping unit on the surface to the rod pump deep down the well bore. There are several types of sucker rods and each has its own specialized role. These rods can also be constructed of different materials to optimize strength-to-weight ratios for the well depth and oil properties (density, viscosity, etc.) at hand.
A sucker rod string is the assembly of components that links the hanger with the rod pump and other downhole components. A typical sucker rod string is assembled as follows from the top down: The bridle running off the horse head connects to a carrier bar that is connected to a specialized sucker bar called a polished rod. The polished rod passes through a stuffing box at the wellhead to create a seal. From here downward, the polished rod is connected to a series of sucker rods until reaching the rod pump. Each end of the sucker rod is threaded to allow a robust and simple connection between the rods. Rod guides, stabilizer bars, and tubing centralizers help center the rod string and keep the rod couplings off the tubing, reducing tubing wear and maximizing flow up the well.
Rod pumping systems are used in hundreds of thousands of oil wells throughout the world. Prominent features of the pumping rig include power systems located on the surface and the pump located at the bottom of the well. However, it is the sucker rods in the pump string that are perhaps the most critical component in keeping the well up and flowing. The large forces on the string demand proper design, installation, and maintenance to keep the well operating with maximum uptime throughout its working life.
Vigor proudly adheres to the stringent criteria set forth by API 11B and Norris standards in both the sourcing of raw materials and the manufacturing process for our oil pumping rods. Designed to excel in a variety of complex downhole environments, our products are engineered to reliably fulfill their tasks.
Prior to formal production, Vigor's quality team meticulously crafts production processes, establishes manufacturing standards, plans production timelines, outlines final inspection criteria, and assigns inspection personnel and schedules. These details are then compiled into official documents for client review and confirmation, ensuring transparency and alignment with their expectations.
Our commitment to delivering superior products and services underscores every aspect of our operations. If you're interested in learning more about Vigor's products and services, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team of dedicated professionals for the most comprehensive technical support available.
