Abstract: A pumping system is configured for deployment in a non-vertical wellbore. The pumping system includes a plurality of articulating components. Each of the plurality of articulating components is connected to an adjacent other of the plurality of articulating components with an articulating joint. In preferred embodiments, the articulating joint is a ball-and-socket mechanism. The articulating components include a body having a first end and a second end, a ball connected to the first end the body and a socket connected to the second end of the body. A locking collar is connected to the socket to secure the ball portion of an adjacent articulating component to the socket.