Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) Safety

Motors used in ESP applications have traditionally been induction motors which
use an induced magnetic field in the rotor bars to generate a motive force to
drive the pump. PMM motors use permanent magnets in the rotors which
results in a synchronous motor (electrical Hz = mechanical RPM), a higher
power factor and higher motor efficiency. Another benefit is smaller OD per
© Copyright Artificial Lift horsepower available and higher horsepower per unit length. A further benefit
Solutions / Dwiggins
Consulting Ltd. 2022
to PMMs is that since they are more electrically efficient, they use less power
for the same demand as a traditional induction motor.

Cable access cordoned off to prevent unauthorized entry reduces risk

of untrained personnel gaining access to potential voltage source.
 Shunt Shorting Device (SSD) used
Dangers of PMMs for RIH and POOH operations.
Once tie in is complete and
The main danger in using PMMs is that they can generate a strong electromotive force integrity checks completed SSD
should remain in place and P-P
(EMF) when the shaft is turned by an external force. The most common source of a force readings not taken until ESP is
capable of turning the shaft enough to endanger human life is well fluids passing through landed.
the pump of the ESP system. Voltage generated can be fatal if proper safety protocol is
not followed. Properly
labelled
Protective elements during run in hole/pull hanger feed
through to
inform and
• Job safety checklist and hazard analysis to identify all prevent
potential hazards and barriers required. personnel
• Cable protection at exposed areas and only allowing key risk of
people near cable. electric
• Nipple and plug installed in string preventing flow in either shock and
direction. Labelled and double locked Vent arc flash
exposure.
• Shorting device to join phases creating magnetic Box to minimize risk of
resistance in the motor against being turned by well fluid. unauthorized personnel entry and SSD “disk” installed in
potential for electrocution. Power Feed Thru to
Shorting cables together may not work if system is
unbalanced. eliminate risk to rig crew
while picking up on hanger.
• Effective communication to those working at site that Proper use of
cable is effectively live measuring
• Appropriate PPE equipment
such as the
• Electrical test equipment for identification and dissipation Non-contact
of any voltage before splicing. Volt Detector
to ensure
Protective elements during operation safety of
personnel
• Job safety checklist and hazard analysis to identify all while making
up Power Feed
potential hazards and barriers required.
Thru
• Appropriate PPE
• Electrical test equipment for identification and dissipation
of any voltage prior to accessing cable terminals.
• Check valve installed above ESP to prevent backspin.
© Copyright Artificial Lift Solutions / Dwiggins Consulting Ltd. 2022