ISO 6398-1:2024

Overview

ISO 6398-1:2024 is the foundational international standard that specifies the requirements for submersible linear motors (SLMs) used in artificial lift systems within oil and gas industries, including lower carbon energy applications. This standard covers all aspects of SLM system components-such as stators, movers, and motor lead extension cables-and outlines necessary protocols for design, verification and validation, quality control, functional evaluations, and storage.

As global energy demands rise and sustainability becomes central, this standard ensures that submersible linear motors are engineered to meet the rigorous technical, operational, and environmental challenges found in oil production wells, including those utilizing advanced artificial lift technologies for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.

Key Topics

• Design and Performance Requirements: Establishes criteria for SLM design, including general design principles, documentation, materials, and validation testing.
• Design Verification and Validation: Outlines processes for verifying and validating that SLMs meet performance ratings and application requirements.
• Quality Control: Defines quality grades and practices for manufacturing, inspection, and traceability to ensure reliable motor operation.
• Functional Evaluations: Details requirements for functional testing and performance rating validation to verify that motors operate as intended under real-world conditions.
• Storage and Handling: Provides guidance on proper storage, shipping, and handling practices to maintain product integrity prior to installation.
• Component Coverage: Applies specifically to SLM system components (stators, movers, lead cables), but excludes pumps, power cables, drive systems, and general fittings.

Applications

The ISO 6398-1:2024 standard is highly relevant for:

• Artificial Lift Systems: SLMs are used to power reciprocating plunger pumps in oil production wells, enhancing fluid recovery in both vertical and deviated wells.
• Lower Carbon Energy Initiatives: Facilitates integration of SLM technology in energy transition projects by ensuring motors meet environmental compatibility standards and efficiency targets.
• Well Engineering and Services: Supports consistent communication between operators and suppliers regarding system requirements, application parameters, and material compatibility.
• Asset Lifecycle Management: Assists operators in ensuring quality, traceability, and functional reliability from manufacturing through field deployment and ongoing maintenance.
• International Oil and Gas Projects: Enables alignment with best practices for equipment procurement, installation, and operation in diverse geographies and regulatory environments.

Related Standards

ISO 6398-1:2024 references and complements several important standards relevant to SLM systems and oilfield equipment:

• ISO 9712: Non-destructive testing - Qualification and certification of NDT personnel
• ISO 10893-4 / ISO 10893-5: Non-destructive testing of steel tubes
• ISO/IEC 17025: General requirements for competence of testing and calibration laboratories
• ASTM E94: Radiographic examination guidelines
• ASME BPVC Section V: Nondestructive examination protocols

Practical Value

Adopting ISO 6398-1:2024:

• Promotes consistency and interoperability across the global oil and gas supply chain when selecting, designing, and evaluating submersible linear motors for artificial lift.
• Enhances system reliability and safety through clear guidelines for design validation, quality control, environmental compatibility, and documentation.
• Reduces operational risks by ensuring SLMs are compatible with well conditions and related equipment.
• Enables oil and gas companies and service providers to meet stringent regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Supports the transition to lower carbon energy solutions by ensuring SLM systems are designed for efficiency and adaptability in evolving energy environments.

For detailed technical requirements and grades for validation, quality, and functional evaluation, refer to the full ISO 6398-1:2024 standard and its associated annexes.