VLP Calculator
Vertical Lift Performance using simplified Beggs & Brill. Generate VLP curves and pressure traverses — free, browser-based.
Well & Fluid Properties
FBHP at Given Rate
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Avg Mixture Density
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Avg Flow Velocity
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Friction Loss
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VLP Curve (FBHP vs Rate)
Pressure Traverse (P vs Depth)
How this was calculated
Method: Simplified Beggs & Brill two-phase pressure drop correlation.
Pressure traverse: Marches from WHP downward in 500 ft increments. At each step: dP/dz = rho_m * g/gc + f * rho_m * vm^2 / (2 * gc * D). Mixture density accounts for oil, water, and free gas fractions using Standing correlations for Rs, Bo, and gas Z-factor.
VLP curve: Sweeps oil rates from 100 to 2000 bbl/d, computing FBHP at each rate.
Limitations: Simplified flow pattern map. No inclination correction (vertical only). Temperature profile assumed linear. For detailed deviated well analysis, consider commercial software or contact us.
Need detailed VLP modeling with compositional PVT, deviated wells, or artificial lift optimization? Our team has 15+ years of production optimization experience.
Book a free strategy call →Understanding Vertical Lift Performance (VLP)
Vertical Lift Performance (VLP) describes the relationship between flow rate and the pressure required to lift fluids from the bottom of a well to the surface through the production tubing. The VLP curve (also called the tubing performance curve or outflow curve) is fundamental to production engineering and nodal analysis.
The pressure drop in the tubing is caused by three components: hydrostatic head (gravity), friction losses, and acceleration (usually negligible). In multiphase flow, the presence of gas, oil, and water creates complex flow patterns (bubble, slug, churn, annular) that significantly affect the pressure gradient. The Beggs & Brill correlation, originally published in 1973 and updated in 1977, remains one of the most widely used methods for predicting multiphase pressure drops in pipes at any inclination.
Commercial multiphase flow software implements dozens of multiphase correlations, compositional PVT models, and artificial lift algorithms. This free calculator provides a simplified implementation suitable for screening and educational purposes. For production optimization, artificial lift design, or field development planning, contact Groundwork Analytics.
All calculations run entirely in your browser. Built by Groundwork Analytics, an AI and engineering company serving the energy industry.