The application of using EDTA to dissolve calcium sulphate deposits for plugged ESP wells in Rumaila oilfield

Abstract

In Rumaila oilfield, many electric submersible pumps (ESP) have been found plugged during commissioning shortly after the new pumps were installed. After these failed plugged pumps have been replaced through workover rigs, the new pumps still face the same problem. Based on the result of root cause failure analysis, this paper describes the potential root cause of pump failure, the solution to treat the plugged pump, the operation steps and application effects of using ethylenediaminetetraacetate acid (EDTA) to dissolve calcium sulphate (CaSO4) deposits for plugged ESP wells in Rumaila oilfield, providing references for solution of similar issue and application of this technology.