Keeping flow steady in changing well conditions remains a key challenge
Changing well conditions can lead to unstable flow rates and reduced oil production. As reservoir pressure drops or fluid characteristics change, fixed-speed pumping can result in inefficient lift, excessive wear, or even lost output.
ABB’s ACS880 variable speed drives (VSDs) bring intelligent control to oil pumping systems by continuously adjusting motor speed based on real-time conditions downhole and at the surface. Whether the application involves a rod pump, progressing cavity pump, or ESP, ABB drives help keep flow rates stable — optimizing oil recovery while protecting system components. For surface-driven lift methods such as rod pumps and progressing cavity pumps, the ACS880 works seamlessly with IEC Low voltage motors, delivering efficient and reliable operation.
Built-in control features, like dedicated rod pump control logic and adaptive torque response, reduce the need for manual intervention. This means less downtime, fewer maintenance issues, and more oil — with less energy wasted. In applications where IEC Low voltage motors are used, the result is a well-integrated, high-performance artificial lift solution.
By making artificial lift systems smarter and more responsive, ABB helps operators get the most out of every well, even as conditions evolve.
Maximize your production with ACS880 artificial lift drives
In an artificial lift operation, predicting changes occurring in the oil well conditions can be difficult. Our ACS880 variable frequency drives monitor and accurately control the motor speed of PCP, ESP and rod pump according to the changing well conditions. The use of our drives, creates cost savings on the operational side, while optimizing the performance of the system throughout its lifetime.
Explore artificial lift pump types
Tired of overtravel, lost production, or unnecessary wear? In rod lift systems, precise control over the motor is key to matching surface stroke movement with downhole pump fill. With dedicated pump control features, ABB drives work seamlessly with IEC Low voltage motors to automatically adjust stroke speed and timing to well conditions — helping you pump more efficiently, reduce strain, and extend equipment life.
When fluid conditions change, your PCP system needs to adapt fast. These positive displacement pumps are sensitive to overload and typically handle high-viscosity or solids-laden fluids. Intelligent torque control, working in combination with IEC Low voltage motors and ABB drives, keeps pumping smooth and steady — protecting the pump from overloading, minimizing downtime, and letting you focus on production, not troubleshooting.
Unstable flow, backspin, and gas slugs don’t have to stop your operation. ESPs operate deep downhole and are critical for high-volume production, but also vulnerable to downhole disturbances. With built-in protection and automatic restart features, your ESP system stays running reliably — even in the most unpredictable conditions.