Question

The maximum Polished Rod Load (PRL) in the operation of the sucker rod pump is observed near the:

• A. top of the stroke and the traveling valve is open.
• B. top of the stroke and the traveling valve is closed.
• C. bottom of the stroke and the traveling valve is open.
• D. bottom of the stroke and the traveling valve is closed.

Hint:

In sucker rod pumping, the PRL is maximum at the top of upstroke (valve closed) and minimum at the bottom of downstroke.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding PRL.
Polished Rod Load is the surface load required to lift the sucker rod string and the fluid column. It varies during the stroke cycle. Step 2: Condition at top of stroke.
At the top of the upstroke: - The rod string is fully stretched, - The entire fluid load is supported, - The traveling valve remains closed (fluid column rests on standing valve). This is when the maximum upward load (PRL) occurs. Step 3: Eliminate other options.
- (A) Incorrect: With valve open, load is shared and less. - (C) Incorrect: At bottom of stroke, rod load is minimum. - (D) Incorrect: At bottom, PRL is not maximum. Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{top of the stroke and the traveling valve is closed}} \]