Scientific Contributions Oil and Gas
Vol 49 No 3 (2026)

Design of a Swab Cup Running Tool to Reduce Fluid Bypass during Liquid Swabbing Operations in Dual Size Tubing Completion Oil and Gas Wells

Karnando (Institut Teknologi Bandung)
Dedy Irawan (Institut Teknologi Bandung)
Amega Yasutra (Institut Teknologi Bandung)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Sep 2026

Abstract

Swabbing is a liquid unloading method used in the oil and gas industry to reduce hydrostatic pressure caused by fluid accumulation in the wellbore. In wells with dual-size tubing completions (4.5-inch and 3.5-inch), tubing diameter transitions can reduce Swab Cup sealing performance, causing fluid bypass and lowering lifting efficiency. This study develops a modified Swab Cup Carrier and swab mandrel to support continuous fluid lifting in dual-size tubing completions. An engineering design research approach was applied, including field problem identification, conceptual design, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), prototype development, tubing simulation, and functional evaluation. The proposed design incorporates a cam-guided release-and-carry mechanism that enables the Swab Cup Carrier to release at the tubing X-over during Run In Hole and reconnect during Pull Out of Hole. FEA of AISI 4130 alloy steel showed a maximum von Mises stress of 278.6 MPa, below the material yield strength of 460 MPa, indicating adequate structural safety. Prototype testing using a PVC tubing simulation verified the proposed mechanism. The design has the potential to minimise fluid bypass, maintain lifting continuity, and improve swabbing effectiveness in dual-size tubing completions. Further laboratory and field validation is required to confirm its operational performance.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

SCOG

Publisher

Subject

Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & Bioengineering Energy

Description

The Scientific Contributions for Oil and Gas is the official journal of the Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS for the dissemination of information on research activities, technology engineering development and laboratory testing in the oil and gas field. Manuscripts in English are accepted from ...