Sand-What
Doesn't Work and Why
-
(1) Cavins
Tool- This device attempts to spin the fluid in such a way that
sand is separated from incoming fluid at the pump intake. It is very
doubtful that frac sand has enough mass to be affected by this. However,
the turbulence incurred on the fluid certainly causes gas to break out
and be introduced to the pump intake.
-
(2) Filters-
All EFFECTIVE filters shear fluid and cause gas to break out and enter
the pump. This leads to excessive fluid pound and low pump efficiencies,
possibly even gas lock. This list includes Stren, Johnson, and Stanley
(there may be others). If you open up the filtration ports enough
to eliminate the "shear" then the filter is ineffective. RULE : Never
restrict your pump intake.
-
(3) Lubri-Plungers
The
last I heard there were 6 ring types for this plunger. If any of
them worked, why so many? Most common failure, gas lock, the rings
melt from friction. Although I have pulled some that the metal was
so cut by sand as to be junk.
-
(4) Wiper
Rings (Martin, & Sand Shark) These things are just
too fragile.
-
(5) Large
Bore Pumps The faster you lower the fluid level the faster the
sand comes.
-
(6) Martin
Ring & Pressure Actuated Plungers- They work fine if you
don't have a frac sand problem. If you do, expect failures.
The only advantage is that they don't stick solid.
-
(7) Grooved
Plungers Aww C'mon! I can sell you anything. There
is no reasonable expectation here.
(8)
Open
Ended Mud Anchors I covered that somewhere else....
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