Pump Off Controllers

Controllers that build surface and calculated downhole dynamometer cards from load and rod-position data to measure pump fillage and detect pump-off conditions. They provide the most accurate fillage-based shutdown and are the dominant detection method on modern beam-pumped wells.

The load cell (polished rod load) and position sensor (Hall-effect, inclinometer, or crank position) hardware that feeds the controller. These sensors define the input signals from which fillage, peak/minimum loads, and stroke timing are calculated.

Simpler time-based units that cycle the pumping unit on a fixed run/idle schedule rather than measuring fillage directly. They are lower cost but less precise than dynamometer-based POCs and are typically used on stable, low-volume wells.

Systems that pair the POC with a variable speed drive (VSD/VFD) so the controller slows pumping speed to match inflow instead of fully stopping the unit. This reduces start/stop cycling and smooths production on wells with marginal fillage.

Pump off controllers built into or connected with remote terminal units that report cards, run-time, and alarms to a SCADA or production-optimization host. They enable remote setpoint changes, well surveillance, and exception-based field operations.

Diagnostic functions that interpret card shape to distinguish gas interference, fluid pound, and incomplete fillage so the controller responds appropriately. They protect rods, the downhole pump, and the gearbox from repeated impact loading.

Self-contained controller packages with solar charging and battery backup for unattended or off-grid well sites. They deliver pump-off control and telemetry where utility power and continuous communications are unavailable.