journal article·2026-02-04Open access

Optimization of Oil Production Using Sucker Rod Pumps via Predictive Elimination of Paraffin Issues

Stevica Jankov, Borivoj Novaković, Milan Marković, Uroš Šarenac, Dejan Landup, Velibor Premčevski, Luka Đorđević

Applied Sciences· Volume 16· Issue 3

Abstract

This paper explores the application of predictive maintenance (PdM) to address paraffin deposition in sucker rod pump systems used for oil production. System maintenance has become critical for enhancing efficiency and reducing costs, while PdM, supported by advanced analytics and sensors, enables downtime prediction and maintenance optimization. Paraffin deposition is a significant problem in the oil industry, as it diminishes production capacity and increases expenses. This paper presents the use of the SCADA system, which enables the collection and analysis of data in real time. Furthermore, it proposes diagnostic methods for early detection of paraffin deposition using predictive maintenance, offering timely warnings to prevent production delays. While the proposed framework relies on interpretable statistical and physics-informed predictive models, the results indicate that further improvements could be achieved by integrating advanced artificial intelligence techniques to enhance adaptability, automation, and decision support in predictive maintenance systems.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Oil and Gas Production Techniques · Reservoir Engineering and Simulation Methods · Machine Fault Diagnosis Techniques

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

NAFTAGAS—Oil Services LLC, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia

Technical Faculty “Mihajlo Pupin” Zrenjanin, University of Novi Sad, 23000 Zrenjanin, Serbia

References (27)

Show source-provided references
1. Machine Learning and Reasoning for Predictive Maintenance in Industry 4.0: Current Status and Challenges10.1016/j.compind.2020.103298 ↗
2. Ucar, A., Karakose, M., and Kırımça, N. (2024). Artificial Intelligence for Predictive Maintenance Applications: Key Components, Trustworthiness, and Future Trends. Appl. Sci., 14.10.3390/app14020898 ↗
3. Data-Driven Methods for Predictive Maintenance of Industrial Equipment: A Survey10.1109/JSYST.2019.2905565 ↗
4. Advancing Predictive Data Analytics in IoT and AI Leveraging Real Time Data for Proactive Operations and System Resilience
5. Snytko, A., Jiménez-Castillo, G., Muñoz-Rodríguez, F.J., and Rus-Casas, C. (2025). Fault Diagnosis for Photovoltaic Systems: A Validated Industrial SCADA Framework. Appl. Sci., 15.10.3390/app152312656 ↗
6. Marti-Puig, P., Blanco, M.A., Serra-Serra, M., and Solé-Casals, J. (2021). Wind Turbine Prognosis Models Based on SCADA Data and Extreme Learning Machines. Appl. Sci., 11.10.3390/app11020590 ↗
7. Slotted-Shell Friction Damper for Sucker-Rod String Suspension: Analytical Model and Parametric Study
8. Analytical Study of Operational Properties of a Plate Shock Absorber of a Sucker-Rod String
9. Feasibility Study, Design, Dynamic Modelling, Simulation, and Control of a Solar-Powered Sucker Rod Oil Pump
10. Takacs, G. (2015). Sucker-Rod Pumping Handbook: Production Engineering Fundamentals and Long-Stroke Rod Pumping, Gulf Professional Publishing.10.1016/B978-0-12-417204-3.00007-8 ↗
11. Automation of Process of The Setting Up Well Model in Updating of The Integrated Asset Model for Wells Operated by Sucker Rod Pumps
12. Robust Technology and System for Management of Sucker Rod Pumping Units in Oil Wells10.1016/j.ymssp.2017.06.010 ↗
13. Features of Electric Drive Sucker Rod Pumps for Oil Production10.1088/1742-6596/944/1/012039 ↗
14. Liang, X., Xing, Z., Yue, Z., Ma, H., Shu, J., and Han, G. (2024). Optimization of Energy Consumption in Oil Fields Using Data Analysis. Processes, 12.10.3390/pr12061090 ↗
15. Marković, M., Novaković, B., Đurđev, M., Jovanović, S., Desnica, E., Blažić, M., and Tolmač, J. (2025). Energy-Efficient Optimization of Jaw-Type Blowout Preventer Activation Using Combined Experimental Design and Metaheuristic Algorithms. Energies, 18.10.3390/en18184852 ↗
16. Novaković, B., Djurdjev, M., Djordjević, L., Drakulović, V., Radovanović, L., and Premčevski, V. (2025). Predicting Operational Reliability of the Directional Control Valves of the Hydraulic Press System Using Taguchi Method and Regression Analysis. Machines, 13.10.3390/machines13121124 ↗
17. Hamouda, A., and Ravneøy, J. (1992, January 4–7). Prediction of Wax Deposition in Pipelines and Field Experience on the Influence of Wax on Drag-Reducer Performance. Proceedings of the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), Houston, TX, USA.10.4043/7060-MS ↗
18. Hamouda, A., and Viken, B. (1993, January 21–23). Wax Deposition Mechanism under High-Pressure and in Presence of Light Hydrocarbons. Proceedings of the SPE Production Operations Symposium, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.10.2118/25189-MS ↗
19. On the Stationary Flow of a Waxy Crude Oil with Deposition Mechanisms10.1016/S0362-546X(02)00315-2 ↗
20. Robust Model for the Determination of Wax Deposition in Oil Systems10.1021/ie402462q ↗
21. Peng, Y. (2019, January 23). Artificial Intelligence Applied in Sucker Rod Pumping Wells: Intelligent Dynamometer Card Generation, Diagnosis, and Failure Detection Using Deep Neural Networks. Proceedings of the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, Calgary, AB, Canada.10.2118/196159-MS ↗
22. A Novel Method for Prediction of Paraffin Deposit in Sucker Rod Pumping System Based on CNN Indicator Diagram Feature Deep Learning10.1016/j.petrol.2021.108986 ↗
23. Anand, R.S., Li, A., Huang, W., Chen, J., Ma, Q., and Jiang, F. (2025). An Assessment of Stress and Production Rate of Sucker Rod Heat Pipes in Oil Well Pumping System. Deep Undergr. Sci. Eng., 1–16.10.1002/dug2.70046 ↗
24. Pratama, S., Azhim, L.N., Suwitno, A., Daniel, S., Saputra, M.E., Susilo, M.D., Imansyah, A.G., and Kuncoro, A.A. (2023, January 6). Extending the Production Lifetime of Oil Well with Paraffin Problems Through Thermal Application of Mobile Steam Injection of Mature Field. Proceedings of the SPE/IATMI Asia Pacific Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition, Jakarta, Indonesia.10.2118/215476-MS ↗
25. Analysis of the Influence of Water Cut and Clearance in Pump Efficiency for a Well Equipped with Sucker Rod Pumping10.1080/10916466.2022.2033767 ↗
26. Influencing Factors Governing Paraffin Wax Deposition of Heavy Oil and Research on Wellbore Paraffin Remover10.1080/10916466.2018.1496113 ↗
27. Knauhs, P. (2017). Frequency-Elastic Operations of Sucker Rod Pumps: Energy Efficiency, Start-Up and Rod Load Optimization. [Master’s Thesis, University of Leoben].