Comparative Real-Time Implementation of Standard and Input-Target MPC for ESP-Based Artificial Lift Systems in a Legacy Automation Architecture

Authors:
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
This study presents practical details and results from implementing model-based predictive controllers for artificial lift systems in oil production, which utilise electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) in legacy systems. The proposed methodology integrates the existing instrumentation architecture with new control systems and techniques. This work implements two control strategies: a standard MPC and an MPC with input targets. Both were executed in real time, encapsulated in a C++ executable, and deployed within Petrobras’s supervisory and control system. The results include an analysis of the instrumentation system, a discussion of operation under unmeasured disturbances and constraints, and a comparison of the controllers. The findings are extensive and indicate that both controllers stabilise the system, ensure constraint satisfaction, and appropriately compensate disturbances.

This publication has 26 references indexed in Scilit: