Downhole · Rod Pump
Gas Anchor
A downhole gas separator below the pump intake that lets free gas escape up the annulus before fluid enters the pump.
What it does
Reduces gas interference and fluid pound. The best natural gas anchor is setting the intake below the lowest perforations so gas rises up the casing.
Basics
| Natural anchor | Intake about 15 ft below the lowest active perforations |
| Field designs | Mud anchor with a dip tube |
| Note | No separator is 100% effective |
Common failures
- Gas still reaching the pump
- Plugged with sand or scale
Troubleshooting
- Symptom
- Gas interference on the card
- Likely cause
- Gas anchor undersized or pump set above perforations
- What to check
- Review setting depth and anchor design