Producing The Well Patents (Class 166/369)
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Publication number: 20110000678Abstract: A method for efficient inversion of measured geophysical data from a subsurface region to prospect for hydrocarbons. Gathers of measured data (40) are encoded (60) using a set of non-equivalent encoding functions (30). Then all data records in each encoded gather that correspond to a single receiver are summed (60), repeating for each receiver to generate a simultaneous encoded gather (80). The method employs iterative, local optimization of a cost function to invert the encoded gathers of simultaneous source data. An adjoint method is used to calculate the gradients of the cost function needed for the local optimization process (100). The inverted data yields a physical properties model (110) of the subsurface region that, after iterative updating, can indicate presence of accumulations of hydrocarbons.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2009Publication date: January 6, 2011Inventors: Jerome R. Krebs, David L. Hinkley
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Publication number: 20100326668Abstract: A pumping apparatus including a pump housing, a plunger operatively coupled to a terminal end of a production string and configured to move upward and downward within the pump housing, a surface pumping unit operatively connected to an upper end of the production string, and at least one element of incremental resistance disposed on an inner surface of the pump housing or an outer surface of the plunger proximate an upper or lower limit of a pump stroke is disclosed. A method for pumping fluid from a wellbore using a pumping system having an element of incremental resistance disposed near at least one of an upper end of a pump stroke and a lower end of a pump stroke to increase the axial load is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Applicant: ZEITECS B. V.Inventors: Neil Griffiths, Humberto F. Leniek, Sr., Bruce H. Storm, Jr.
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Publication number: 20100326669Abstract: A hydrocarbon exploration method is disclosed for generating anisotropic resistivity models of a subsurface reservoir from seismic and well data using a rock physics model. In one embodiment, the method comprises: selecting wells within a region of interest (101); obtaining a plurality of rock properties (102) and adjusting selected rock parameters (103) in the calibration of the rock physics model at the well locations; inverting porosity and shale content from seismic data (107); propagating the calibrated rock physics model to the region of interest (109) and calculating effective resistivity for the entire region of interest (109). The inventive method also provides for analyzing the uncertainty associated with the prediction of the resistivity volume.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Yaping Zhu, Xinyou Lu, Shiyu Xu, Enru Liu, Michael A. Payne, Carrie X. Zhan
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Publication number: 20100326667Abstract: The present invention relates to a floating production platform for oil and/or gas production in a marine environment, the floating production platform comprising: a floater for providing buoyancy, the floater having suitable motion characteristics for supporting a dry tree riser, at least one riser support point constructed and arranged for supporting at least one dry tree riser which extends between the floating production platform and a seabed, a rotary communication assembly constructed and arranged for providing communication between the floating production platform and a vessel for: transferring a product fluid coming out of the at least one riser to the vessel, and/or transferring other fluids between the floating production platform and the vessel, and/or transferring electrical power via one or more electrical lines between the floating production platform and the vessel, transferring control signals via one or more electrical lines or fibre optic lines between the floating production platform anType: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventor: Ton Coppens
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Patent number: 7857047Abstract: A method associated with the production of hydrocarbons. In one embodiment, method for drilling a well is described. The method includes performing drilling operations at one or more wells to a subsurface location in a field to provide fluid flow paths for hydrocarbons to a production facility. The drilling is performed by (i) obtaining mechanical specific energy (MSE) data and other measured data during the drilling operations; (ii) using the obtained MSE data and other measured data to determine the existence of at least one limiter; (iii) obtaining and examining lithology data for the well; (iv) identifying a primary limiter of the at least one limiter based on the lithology data; and (v) adjusting drilling operations to mitigate at least one of the at least limiter.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2007Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: Stephen M. Remmert, Joseph W. Witt, Fred E. Dupriest
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Publication number: 20100314125Abstract: A stimulation technique is provided for use in an open hole well. The stimulation technique utilizes a system which comprises one or more isolation devices positioned to isolate desired regions of the open hole well. At least one release mechanism is used to provide controlled release of stimulation material to a desired wellbore region of the open hole well. Additionally, a protection mechanism cooperates with each release mechanism to prevent undesirable contact between stimulation material and the surrounding wellbore wall of the open hole well. In many applications, the entire system is deployed and operated during a single trip downhole into the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2010Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Ricardo Gomez Simancas, Bryan Stamm, Graham Watson, Tom Saunders
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Publication number: 20100314124Abstract: A stimulation system configured for use in open-hole wells. The system may alternatively or additionally be configured for multi-zone stimulation applications. The system includes assemblies which employ techniques and configurations for isolating recovery screens downhole even without the presence of well casing. In this manner protection may be provided from dowhnole contaminants such as water which might otherwise leak in from adjacent formation layers.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2010Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Ricardo Gomez Simancas, Bryan Stamm, Graham M. Watson, Tom Saunders
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Publication number: 20100307757Abstract: Methods and apparatus of embodiments of the invention relate to a system for treating a subterranean formation including mixing equipment to form a fluid comprising sodium hypochlorite and sodium diacetate; and pumps and a tubular to introduce the fluid into the subterranean formation, wherein a surface of the subterranean formation contains at least 15 percent less microorganisms than if no sodium hypochlorite were in the fluid. Methods and apparatus of embodiments of the invention relate to a method of producing a petroleum product from a wellbore including using a well treatment system comprising mixing equipment, pumps, and a tubular, forming a fluid comprising sodium hypochlorite and sodium diacetate; and introducing the fluid to the well treatment system to achieve a reduced population of microorganisms in the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Kristel A. Blow, Syed A. Ali, Paul R. Howard, Curtis L. Boney, Shawn McCleskey Rimassa, Bruce A. MacKay, Leiming Li, Noel Coffman, Richard D. Hutchins
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Patent number: 7845413Abstract: A method of pumping an oilfield fluid from a well surface to a wellbore is provided that includes providing a clean stream; operating one or more clean pumps to pump the clean stream from the well surface to the wellbore; providing a dirty stream including a solid material disposed in a fluid carrier; and operating one or more dirty pumps to pump the dirty stream from the well surface to the wellbore, wherein the clean stream and the dirty stream together form the oilfield fluid.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Rod Shampine, Paul Dwyer, Ronnie Stover, Mike Lloyd, Jean-Louis Pessin, Edward Leugemors, Larry D. Welch, Joe Hubenschmidt, Philippe Gambier, William Troy Huey, Tom Allan
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Patent number: 7845414Abstract: A method of producing natural gas from a heavy hydrocarbon-containing subterranean formation includes: placing a catalyst having at least one transition metal into the formation, injecting an anoxic stimulation gas into the formation, and collecting the natural gas generated in the formation. The method may be performed outside the context of a subterranean formation under controlled conditions. Thus, a method of producing natural gas from bitumen includes: providing an anoxic mixture of heavy hydrocarbons and a catalyst having at least one transition metal, adding an anoxic stimulation gas to the mixture, and heating the mixture in the presence of the stimulation gas.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Petroleum Habitats, L.L.C.Inventor: Frank D. Mango
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Publication number: 20100300694Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing an organic composition containing a functional component selected from the group consisting of a thermoplastic polymer, an enzyme, a setting agent, a paraffin, an oil, a colorant and a hair or skin care substance. The method includes providing an n-nonyl ether, a functional component which is able to react with an n-nonyl alcohol component, and, if appropriate, at least one further additive substance; and mixing the n-nonyl ether, the functional component and the at least one further additive substance. The invention further relates to a method for producing and using a molded article, a method for producing an item to be packaged, the use of at least one n-nonyl ether, a method for producing and/or cleaning the surfaces of boreholes, drilling devises or drill cuttings, and also to methods for producing an oil or a gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2008Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Anja Vonderhagen, Peter Daute
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Publication number: 20100300688Abstract: A composition and method are disclosed. The composition includes a carrier fluid and a solids mixture combined to form a slurry, wherein the solids mixture comprises a plurality of volume-averaged particle size distribution (PSD) modes, wherein a first PSD mode comprises solids having a volume-average median size at least three times larger than the volume-average median size of a second PSD mode such that a packed volume fraction of the solids mixture exceeds 0.75, and wherein the solids mixture comprises a degradable material and includes a reactive solid. The method includes circulating the slurry through a wellbore to form a pack in a fracture and/or a screen-wellbore annulus; degrading the degradable material to increase porosity and permeability of the pack; and producing a reservoir fluid through the permeable pack.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2010Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Mohan K.R. Panga, Peter J. Photos, Bruno Drochon, John W. Still, Balkrishna Gadiyar, Ryan Hartman, Bryan Stamm
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Patent number: 7841395Abstract: A submersible pumping system for use downhole, wherein the system includes a first pump, a second pump, a recirculation coupling between the first and second pumps, and a recirculation line for directing cooling flow across the pump motor. The pumps and coupling are independent modular items connected together. Optionally, a multi-stage pump may be retrofitted with the coupling for creating a cooling flow.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Farral D. Gay, Kevin R. Bierig
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Publication number: 20100294501Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of an organic composition which contains a functional component chosen from the group consisting of a thermoplastic polymer, an enzyme, a setting agent, a paraffin, an oil, a colouring agent and a hair or skin care substance, comprising as process steps of providing an n-nonyl ester as an additive, which is obtainable by reaction of an n-nonyl alcohol component with a further component which is capable of reacting with the n-nonyl alcohol component to form an n-nonyl ester, and the functional component, and optionally at least one further additive; and mixing of the n-nonyl ester, the functional component. and optionally the at least one further additive.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2008Publication date: November 25, 2010Inventors: Peter Daute, Anja Vonderhagen, Heinz Muller
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Patent number: 7836957Abstract: A method for producing synthesis gas from underground hydrocarbon deposits is described. Oxygen and water are reacted with the hydrocarbon deposit under conditions conducive to the production of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The method is applicable to oil reservoirs from which conventional production means are unable to recover additional oil practically, to viscous oil deposits from which production is limited, and to shale oil deposits.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Inventors: Alan H. Singleton, Richard A. Flinn
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Publication number: 20100288506Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling a hydrocarbons production installation. The installation comprises at least one hydrocarbons production string activated by a gas injection using a gas injection choke, and a production choke on the string. The method comprises notably a production phase during which the position of at least one of the chokes is adjusted by cascaded control loops. The loops are driven according to continuously or sequentially developing setpoint parameters. The invention makes it possible to control the installation more accurately and quickly than in the prior art, as a cascade control loop architecture makes it possible to simplify each of the loops in order to increase the speed of implementation, while still taking account of a greater number of setpoint parameters.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventor: Pierre Lemetayer
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Publication number: 20100288493Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a cable suspended pumping system. In one embodiment, a method of producing fluid from a reservoir includes deploying a pumping system into a wellbore to a location proximate the reservoir using a cable. The pump assembly includes a motor, an isolation device, a pump, and a power conversion module (PCM). The method further includes setting the isolation device, thereby rotationally fixing the pumping system to a tubular string disposed in the wellbore and isolating an inlet of the pump from an outlet of the pump; supplying a DC power signal from the surface to the PCM via the cable; and supplying a second power signal to the motor, thereby operating the pump and pumping reservoir fluid from the reservoir to the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2009Publication date: November 18, 2010Inventors: Lance I. Fielder, Robert Nicholas Worrall
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Patent number: 7828059Abstract: A submersible pumping system for use downhole, wherein the system includes a pump, an inlet section for receiving fluid, a pump motor, and an actively controlled flow restriction device for controlling flow to the submersible pump from an upper fluid producing zone. Active flow control proximate to the submersible pump motor protects the pump motor from overheating.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Leslie Claud Reid, Patricia Diane Dougherty
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Publication number: 20100276983Abstract: This description is directed to a method and system for integrating an in-situ bitumen recovery operation with a bitumen mining operation for improved efficiencies and synergies therebetween. The method comprises obtaining a production fluid from the in-situ bitumen recovery operation, directing the production fluid to the bitumen mining operation, and incorporating the production fluid into the bitumen mining operation. The basic integrated system comprises a production well for recovering production fluid from the in-situ bitumen recovery operation, a bitumen mining and extraction facility, and a transporter for directing the production fluid from the production well to the bitumen mining and extraction facility for incorporation into the mining and extraction operation. The in-situ recovery operation may be a thermal operation, such as steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD), cyclic steam stimulation (CSS), or a derivative thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2008Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventors: James Andrew Dunn, Brian C. Speirs
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Publication number: 20100270028Abstract: Submersible pumping systems, devices and methods for extracting liquids in deep well applications are disclosed. In the various embodiments, a submersible pumping system includes a power supply and a power converter coupled to the power supply. A subsurface unit may be coupled to the power converter and positioned in the well. The subsurface unit may include a subsurface controller, a motor and a pump portion operably coupled to the subsurface controller. The pump portion may further include a front shroud having an inlet, and a back shroud sealably coupled to the front shroud to define a volume. An orifice fluidly communicates with the volume and an annular fluid discharge space disposed about the subsurface unit. An impeller operably coupled to the motor and positioned within the volume may transport a liquid from the inlet to the annular fluid discharge space.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: Geotech Environmental Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Joseph L. Leonard
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METHODS FOR TREATING HYDROCARBON-BEARING FORMATIONS WITH FLUORINATED ANIONIC SURFACTANT COMPOSITIONS
Publication number: 20100270020Abstract: Methods of treating a hydrocarbon-bearing formation having brine and liquid hydrocarbons and treated hydrocarbon-bearing formations. The methods include contacting the hydrocarbon-bearing formation with a composition comprising solvent and a fluorinated anionic surfactant. In some embodiments, the solvent solubilizes the brine in the hydrocarbon-bearing formation without causing the fluorinated anionic surfactant to precipitate. In some embodiments, the solvent includes at least one of a polyol or polyol ether independently having from 2 to 25 carbon atoms and at least one of water, a monohydroxy alcohol, an ether, or a ketone, wherein the monohydroxy alcohol, the ether, and the ketone each independently have up to 4 carbon atoms.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2008Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Jimmie R. Baran, Jr., Michael S. Terrazas, Rudolf J. Dams -
Publication number: 20100270029Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus comprising a hydraulic cylinder assembly, a load connected to the cylinder, a reversible hydraulic pump assembly, a pressurized supply of hydraulic fluid, first and second conduits for hydraulic fluid, and a control system. The hydraulic cylinder assembly comprises a cylinder sealed by an upper head and a lower head and carrying a piston which divides the hydraulic cylinder assembly into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The load is connected to the piston and urges it toward the lower head. The first conduit for hydraulic fluid connects the reversible hydraulic pump assembly in fluid flow communication with the lower chamber of the hydraulic cylinder assembly. The second conduit for hydraulic fluid connects the reversible hydraulic pump assembly in fluid flow communication with the pressurized supply of hydraulic fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Michael C. Ramsey, Michael L. Finley
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Publication number: 20100270027Abstract: Distinct paths (40), e.g., locally optimal, are determined in a heterogeneous velocity field (32) between a source object and a target object (33) using gradients (35) of a two-way total arrival time field (34). The foregoing technique may be used to assess hydrocarbon reservoir connectivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2009Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Chul-Sung Kim, Mark Dobin
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Publication number: 20100270026Abstract: A geophysical model of a subsurface region is generated based on seismic data, e.g., seismic reflection data. Migration and seismic inversion are applied to the seismic data to generate estimates of one or more physical or seismic properties of the subsurface region. Seismic inversion, such as spectral shaping inversion, is applied before or after migrating the seismic data through a variety of techniques that each avoid the amplification of dipping energy while optimizing computational efficiency and/or accuracy.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2008Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Spyridon Lazaratos, Roy David
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Patent number: 7819187Abstract: The system of subterranean wells includes a subsurface flow line 20 having at least a portion within or underlining one or more subterranean formations 12. One or more drainage wells 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 each extend from the surface and intercept at least one of the subterranean formations at a respective interception location. A lower portion of each drainage well is in fluid communication with the subsurface flow line. A recovery well 42 extends from the surface and is also in fluid communication with the subsurface flow line, so that fluids entering the drainage well flow into the subsurface flow line and then into the recovery well.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2008Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignees: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc., Dynamic Production, Inc.Inventors: Stephen A. Graham, Charles E. Graham, III, Jonathon G. Weiss
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Patent number: 7819196Abstract: A method and a device in connection with an actuator intended for use in connection with a fluid flow or fluid reservoir, in particular an actuator that is designed to be used in connection with a drainage pipe (8) for the production of oil and/or gas in an oil and/or gas reservoir. An osmotic cell (9) is used to operate the actuator (10). The osmotic cell is placed in the fluid flow, whereby the necessary force and motion for the actuator (10) to adjust or drive a fluid control device or valve are achieved by utilizing the osmotic pressure difference between the solution in the cell (9) and an external fluid flow/reservoir in relation to the cell.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Norsk Hydro ASAInventor: Haavard Aakre
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Patent number: 7814974Abstract: A system for production of petroleum from an earth formation is provided. The system includes: at least one injection borehole for injecting a thermal source into the formation; at least one production borehole for recovering material including the petroleum from the formation; and at least one drainage borehole intersecting a portion of the at least one production borehole. Methods of recovering petroleum from an earth formation and creating a petroleum production system are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Barton Sponchia
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Publication number: 20100258307Abstract: The present invention relates to a drilling composition comprising an organic phase having at least one linear or branched, cyclic or non-cyclic, saturated hydrocarbon, at least one ester, water or aqueous phase, and at least one additive. The present invention additionally relates to the use and preparation of the drilling composition, to a drilling system, to a process for making a borehole, to a process for conveying cuttings, to a process for treating a drill head, and to a process for production of oil and/or gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2008Publication date: October 14, 2010Inventors: Heinz Muller, Nadja Herzog, Diana Maker
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Patent number: 7810572Abstract: The object of the invention is to improve delivery of the multi-phase mixture, in particular hydrocarbons from a well, and to limit the free gas volume. According to the invention, this object is attained in that a partial liquid flow (13) is split off on the pressure side from the main delivery flow and guided to the high-pressure side of at least one ejector pump (2) arranged on the suction side as an auxiliary delivery device. The pump installation provides a feed line (7) connecting the pressure chamber of the displacement pump (1) with the high-pressure side of at least one ejector pump (2), whereby the ejector pump (2) is arranged on the suction side in the delivery direction of the displacement pump (1).Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2004Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Joh. Heinr. Bornemann GmbHInventors: Jens Uwe Brandt, Gerhard Rohlfing, Dietrich Mueller-Link
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Publication number: 20100252270Abstract: A method is disclosed for determining the connectivity architecture of a hydrocarbon reservoir in terms of locally optimal paths between selected source points, e.g. wells. In one embodiment of the invention, a fast-marching method (133) is used to compute the distance field (or the time of arrival field) from N selected source points in a heterogeneous media, i.e. in a non-uniform velocity field. This is done by propagating N labeled (132) fronts simultaneously from N objects. Then, a method (134) is disclosed for detecting Voronoi curves or Voronoi surfaces, where fronts of differing labels meet each other. Then, saddle points are found on the Voronoi curves or surfaces (135), and each saddle point is used to determine a locally optimal path (136) between a pair of equidistant (from the saddle point), closest (to the saddle point) source points.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2008Publication date: October 7, 2010Inventors: Chul-Sung Kim, Mark W. Dobin
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Patent number: 7806186Abstract: A submersible pumping system for use downhole that includes a housing, a pump and gas separator within the housing, a motor for driving the pump and separator, and a foaming agent injection system. The foaming agent injection system injects a foaming agent upstream of the pump and optionally upstream of the separator. The foaming agent injection system comprises a foaming agent supply, an injection pump, and foaming agent injection line.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Donn J. Brown, Brown Lyle Wilson, David H. Neuroth
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Publication number: 20100243264Abstract: A system for producing wellbore fluids. The system includes a pumping system deployable into tubing disposed in a wellbore, the pumping system includes a pump, a pump motor, a reservoir for containing purging fluid, and conductors in electrical communication with the pump motor. Electrical supply contacts are provided in the tubing and are connected to a downhole electrical power supply via a power cable extending along the tubing length from the surface. The conductors are engageable with the electrical supply contacts when the pumping system is landed within the tubing. Purging fluid in the reservoir can be flowed between the conductors and the supply contacts to remove conductive fluid prior to engaging the conductors and supply contacts. The conductors are selectively extended from a retracted position in the pumping system. In an alternative embodiment, the electrical supply contacts are provided at locations along the length of the tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Steven K. Tetzlaff, Kevin R. Bierig, Joseph Scott Thompson
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Publication number: 20100243263Abstract: A system for producing wellbore fluids. The system includes a pumping system deployable into tubing disposed in a wellbore, the pumping system includes a pump, a pump motor, a reservoir for containing purging fluid, and conductors in electrical communication with the pump motor. Electrical supply contacts in the tubing are connected to a downhole electrical power supply via a power cable extending along the tubing length from the surface. The conductors are engageable with the electrical supply contacts when the pumping system is landed within the tubing. Purging fluid in the reservoir can be flowed between the conductors and the supply contacts to remove conductive fluid prior to engaging the conductors and supply contacts. The conductors are selectively extended from a retracted position in the pumping system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: Baker Hughes IncroporatedInventors: Steven K. Tetzlaff, Kevin R. Bierig, Joseph Scott Thompson
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Publication number: 20100236787Abstract: An improvement to a prior art sand release apparatus and method uses a pair of telescoped tubular members. In the improved system and method, the telescoped members are prevented from completely telescoping by a J-hook latch. Also in the improved system and method, a wear resistant seal prevents leakage when the telescoped members are not extended.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2009Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: L. D. Hall
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Publication number: 20100236788Abstract: The invention disclosed provides a drive head assembly for a fluid conveyor system that propels a fluid entraining conveyor through a well bore to carry fluids to the surface. The invention is comprised of a pair of synchronized follower wheels connected to a set of counter rotating sheaves. A fluid entraining conveyor is wrapped in a “figure-8” conveyor path around the sheaves in a plurality of coaxial grooves and around a distal sheave located in the fluid in the well bore. The coaxial grooves incorporate a unique shape which in conjunction with the wrap pattern provide improved tractive qualities and thus reduce tension in the conveyor and increase the durability of the conveyor. The conveyor can run at increased speeds and with no tension on the downward portion of the conveyor resulting in higher efficiency and less down time due to breakage.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2009Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: Jim Crafton
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Patent number: 7798215Abstract: A device, method, and program product detect and break an occurrence of gas lock in an electrical submersible pump assembly in a well bore based upon surface or downhole data without the need for operator intervention. The system provides the ability to flush the pump and return the system back to production without requiring system shutdown. In addition, the system provides an algorithm for controlling a pump operating speed of the electrical submersible pump assembly to maximize production from the well bore.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: John Michael Leuthen, Brown L. Wilson, Jerald R. Rider, Bryan D. Schulze
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Patent number: 7798233Abstract: The present invention relates to overpressure protection systems and methods for use on a production system for transferring hydrocarbons from a well on the seafloor to a vessel floating on the surface of the sea. The production system includes a subsea well in fluid communication with a turret buoy through a production flowline and riser system. The turret buoy is capable of connecting to a swivel located on a floating vessel. The overpressure protection device is positioned upstream of the swivel, to prevent overpressure of the production swivel and downstream components located on the floating vessel. The device may include one or more shut down valves, one or more sensors, an actuator assembly, and a control processor.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Jeremiah Daniel, Jin-Sug Chung, Ramanathan Ramaswamy, Joseph M. Gebara, John L. Upchurch
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Publication number: 20100230112Abstract: This invention relates to a downhole hydraulic pump for hydrocarbon wells that is installed and operated using coiled tubing. The downhole hydraulic pump is driven by a hydraulic power system positioned at the surface and connected through a closed loop system using multiple channels of the coiled tubing. The coiled tubing is formed of a combination of channels including strength component such as steel and having one channel that is at least lined with a non-metallic corrosion resistant surface where clean hydraulic fluid is carried from the hydraulic power system to the downhole hydraulic pump through the non-metallic corrosion resistant channel so to be less likely to pick up manufacturing and environmental particulates and corrosion by-products within the channel carrying the hydraulic fluid to the downhole hydraulic pump. The non-metallic corrosion resistant lined channel may comprise plastic pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: CONOCOPHILLIPS COMPANYInventors: James C. Cox, Dennis R. Wilson, Christine A. Buczek, John C. Patterson, Thomas E. Nations, Curtis G. Blount
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Publication number: 20100230111Abstract: An apparatus and method to internally provide apertures inside PVC, HDPE, or plastic pipe-riser (blank casing) in existing methane gas recovery wells (extraction wells) that have been installed at Municipal Solid Waste Facilities are described. Apertures in methane well risers allow methane gas, LFG derived from the decomposition of waste, to enter the existing riser and extraction system. This process saves time and cost associated with drilling additional wells to retrieve methane gas from subsequent layers of the waste body. The process assists in maintaining regulatory compliance by capturing LFG and preventing it from being emitted into the atmosphere.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: PROSPECTOR DRILLING & TOOL, INC.Inventor: Stefan Stamoulis
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Patent number: 7789157Abstract: A system for operating downhole equipment in a well includes a drive shaft extending from a surface of the well to a downhole location. A motor is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to selectively rotate the drive shaft. A lift system is positioned at the surface and is operably connected to the drive shaft to axially lift and lower the drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Pine Tree Gas, LLCInventor: Joseph A. Zupanick
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Patent number: 7789131Abstract: Water is removed from a natural gas well using a piston pump is driven by a power fluid that is pumped into the wellbore. The power fluid is intermixed within wellbore water and pumped out of the wellbore along with the removed water.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Sean L. Gaudette
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Publication number: 20100218954Abstract: Methods for recovering heavy oil are provided. In at least one embodiment, the process includes conditioning a reservoir of interest, then initially producing fluids and particulate solids such as sand to increase reservoir access (“slurry production”). The initial production may generate high permeability channels or wormholes in the formation, which may be used for heavy oil production processes (“hydrocarbon production”) such as cold flow (CHOPS) or enhanced production processes such as SAGD, or VAPEX.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2008Publication date: September 2, 2010Inventors: David P. Yale, Thomas J. Boone, Richard J. Smith
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Patent number: 7784549Abstract: A self-propelled swabbing device and method for use in removing liquid to surface from within an installed wellbore casing.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2007Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Swab-Rite Tool Corp.Inventor: Robert Mark Balen
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Publication number: 20100212909Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a method for interpolating seismic data. The method includes collecting seismic data of two or more types over a field (401), determining an approximation to one of the types of the seismic data (402), and performing a wave-field transformation on the approximation to form a transformed approximation (405), wherein the transformed approximation corresponds to another of the collected types of seismic data. The method may also include setting the transformed approximation to match the measured seismic data of the corresponding types at matching locations (408), performing a wave-field transformation on the transformed approximation to form an output approximation (412), and using the output approximation to obtain a data representation of a geological layer (416).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2010Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Anatoly Baumstein, Ramesh Neelamani
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Publication number: 20100206577Abstract: An in-well ESP string that can be installed or retrieved with a wireline instead of a rig. The ESP is combined with a motor and a hydraulic valve to pump formation fluid from a well to the surface. A wet connector is used to facilitate electrical and hydraulic connections. The ESP system is disposed within a tubing string located within the casing of a well. The hydraulic valve controls the flow of formation fluid to the ESP, opening to allow formation fluid to flow to the ESP, and closing to shut off production. When the valve is closed, the ESP may be cleaned with brine introduced via a flow port in the valve. This cleaning operation allows the ESP string to be to retrieved in an environmentally friendly manner. In addition, the wireline installation and retrieval is significantly less costly and less complicated than currently possible with a rig.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2010Publication date: August 19, 2010Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATEDInventor: Ignacio Martinez
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Publication number: 20100200242Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to methods and apparatus for centrifugal separation. In one embodiment, a separator includes an outer tubular having ends sealed from the environment and an inner tubular. The inner tubular is disposed within the outer tubular, has ends in fluid communication with a bore of the outer tubular, and is attached to the outer tubular. The separator further includes an inlet. The inlet is disposed through a wall of the outer tubular, in fluid communication with a bore of the inner tubular, and tangentially attached to the inner tubular so that fluid flow from the inlet to the inner tubular is centrifugally accelerated. The separator further includes a gas outlet in fluid communication with the outer tubular bore; and a liquid outlet in fluid communication with the outer tubular bore.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventors: George Joel Rodger, Denman L. Cloudt, JR.
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Publication number: 20100193193Abstract: A method and system for use in association with a subterranean reservoir containing reservoir material, for separating the reservoir material into components and for producing one or more of the reservoir material components at a surface production location. The reservoir material components include one or more liquid components and a solid component. The system includes a subterranean cavern located below the reservoir. A drain extends between the reservoir and the cavern for draining the reservoir material from the reservoir into the cavern so that the reservoir material may be collected and separated into the reservoir material components in the cavern. A production well extends between the cavern and the surface production location for producing one or more of the reservoir material components at the surface production location. Preferably, one or more of the liquid components are produced at the surface production location while retaining the solid component in the cavern.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2007Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: C-FER TECHNOLOGIES (1999) INC.Inventors: Brian T. Wagg, Cameron M. Matthews, Damien Clapa, Christopher Michael John Timms
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Patent number: 7762340Abstract: Installation for enhanced oil recovery comprising in succession: a polymer storage hopper, a grinding device, a dissolution/maturation tank for the dispersed polymer, and a pump for transferring pressurized polymer solution in the pipeline conveying the injection water for introducing the mixture of polymer and injection water into a well. The grinding device has a chamber for grinding and draining the dispersed polymer comprising a rotor and a stator, and on all or part of the periphery of the chamber, a ring fed by a secondary water circuit. The ring communicates with the chamber for spraying of pressurized water on the blades of the stator. A method implementing the installation is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2008Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: S.P.C.M. S.A.Inventors: Rene Pich, Philippe Jeronimo
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Patent number: 7762339Abstract: A controller for controlling the pump unit of an oil well includes a sensor having a first and second probe for placement in the flow of oil from the well bore. Each of the probes contains a heater. A constant power source is selectively connected to one of the heaters. Each of the probes also includes a linear RTD at each of their tips respectively for generating a signal indicative of the temperature measured at each of the first and second probes. A control unit receives signals from the RTD's and determines a flow rate therefrom. A pump control signal is generated in response to the flow rate, wherein the pump control signal continuously varies a predetermined parameter for controlling the flow rate of a pumping unit during operation of the pumping unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2006Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Inventors: Stuart F. Bevan, Timothy Lownie
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Publication number: 20100181076Abstract: A motor winding wire. The motor winding wire may be configured for use in, and direct exposure to, a hydrocarbon environment. The motor winding wire may be electrically insulated by one polymer layer, whereas another, outer, polymer layer is employed to provide moisture resistance as well as other contaminant and hydrocarbon environment shielding to the underlying layer. Additionally, this manner of polymer layering over the motor winding wire is achieved in a manner cognizant of the limited dimension of the motor winding wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2010Publication date: July 22, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Joseph Varkey, Byong Jun Kim, Pete Howard