Thrust bearing is one of the most important components in esPCP system, which
determines the lifespan of the whole system under the restriction of some factors such as the depth
of downhole unit, the viscosity of petroleum oil to be pumped. To increase the high temperature
bearing ability of the bearings under the limitation of radial size, the damage reason of pre-applied
bearings was analyzed. Some different modified plans were put forward from two aspects of
structure and material. Contact problems were researched for different plans with finite element
analysis software of ANSIS. Comparison of results shows that, in the well of 5½" tube, the
optimum selection is ball thrust bearing with 8 balls of radial size of 10mm without keeper.