+ AUTO FLOW VALVES - Zenith Oilfield Technology Ltd

ZENITH AUTO FLOW VALVE (AFV)
When the ESP is started in a well with a Zenith AFV installed (fig. 2), the AFV pilots its annular
ports to the closed position; pump discharge pressure ensures the valve maintains
this position while producing through the pump. Production flows to the tubing with the
AFV mechanism preventing recirculation.
When the ESP is shut down (fig. 3), the AFV’s annular flow ports automatically open,
preventing backspin and pump damage from sands and debris descending into the pump
— the fluid column drains directly to the annulus.
1. 2. 3. 4.
By rerouting flow around rather than
through the non-operational ESP, thereby
eliminating the associated restriction and
resulting damage to the pump, significant
improvements in production can be
realised. Zenith Auto Flow Valves also
immediately divert solids to the annulus
when the ESP is switched off (fig. 4),
preventing the back-flow of sand clogging
the ESP stages.
The Zenith Auto Flow
Valve released an additional
$140,000 per week from the
well with the further benefit
of preventing ESP failure
through solids management
on pump shut-down.