Abstract: A novel method for stimulating the flow of oil from the pay zone of a formation traversed by a bore hole which involves the conversion of liquid water into high pressure steam in situ in heat transfer proximity to the pay zone. A novel oil tool adapted to be lowered and suspended within the bore hole in proximity to the pay zone having an external elongated shell within which is contained means for the in situ generation of steam. The casing may be adapted to generate steam internally and allow that steam to pass through the shell and into contact with the pay zone at a predetermined high pressure, or to superheat highly pressurized water and allow it to pass through an orifice in the shell, at which time it immediately flashes to high pressure steam and disperses into the area of the pay zone. A novel electrical control system for the operation, regulation and malfunction-detection of the oil tool from the ground surface.

Abstract: A novel method for stimulating the flow of oil from the pay zone of a formation traversed by a bore hole which involves the conversion of liquid water into steam in situ in heat transfer proximity to the pay zone. A novel oil tool adapted to be lowered and suspended within the bore hole in proximity to the pay zone having a closed casing or shell within which is contained means for the in situ generation of steam, with the casing being provided with valve means whereby the steam thus generated can pass through the shell and into contact with the pay zone. A novel electrical control system for the operation, regulation and malfunction-detection of the oil tool from the ground surface.