Multi-piece rod guide for wells

A guide for sucker rods comprising two pieces disposed about a longitudinal axis and

• defining an orifice therethrough, each of the two pieces comprising:
• a semi-cylindrical profile having a first end and a second end;
• an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface comprising at least one internal groove;
• a first protrusion extending from the outer surface and along the longitudinal axis of the semi-cylindrical piece, wherein the first protrusion terminates at the first end and the second end;
• a second and third protrusion extending from the outer surface and along the longitudinal axis, wherein the second and third protrusions each terminate at the first end and halfway between the first end and the second end, and wherein a portion of the second and third protrusions extends circumferentially beyond the semi-cylindrical profile;
• a first pair of interlock surfaces, wherein the first pair of interlock surfaces is located on either side of the first protrusion, near the second end of the piece;
• and
• a second pair of interlock surfaces, wherein the second pair of interlocking surfaces is located on the portion of the second and third protrusions extending beyond the semi-cylindrical profile;
• wherein the first pair of interlock surfaces of one of the two pieces forms an interference fit with the second pair of interlock surfaces of the other of the two pieces, wherein the second pair of interlock surfaces of one of the two pieces forms an interference fit with the first pair of interlock surfaces of the other of the two pieces, and wherein adhesive applied to the at least one internal groove secures the pieces to the rod.

A method of fitting a rod guide to a sucker rod, comprising:

• molding a plurality of guide pieces having a semi-cylindrical profile and at least one interlock surface;
• transporting the plurality of guide pieces to an installation location having a sucker rod;
• applying an adhesive to an internal surface of the plurality of guide pieces;
• aligning the plurality of guide pieces with each other along the sucker rod;
• engaging the interlock surfaces of the plurality of guide pieces with each other;
• and
• applying force to the plurality of guide pieces such that the interlock surfaces deform each other to create an interference fit rod guide along the sucker rod.