Abstract: A steam generator having substantial thermal capacity for producing high quality steam used primarily for downhole steam generation in tertiary oil recovery. Incorporated in the generator is a novel high pressure, high heat release combustor, utilizing high pressure gaseous fuel and compressed gas oxidizer such as air, wherein thermal and mechanical stresses on the combustor structure are controlled. A method for controlling combustion induced mechanical stresses on the combustor through fluid injection is also disclosed. Disclosed designs provide substantially increased combustor life in "Downhole" Steam Generation service. The burner employs an ignition technique utilizing gaseous injection of a pyrophoric compound such as triethylborane (TEB).
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 8, 1985
Date of Patent:
March 10, 1987
Assignee:
Enhanced Energy Systems
Inventors:
Stephen Eisenhawer, Anthony J. Mulac, A. Burl Donaldson, Ronald L. Fox
Abstract: A high output, high pressure direct contact steam generator for producing high quality steam particularly suited for use with low grade, low cost fuel. When used in a system incorporating heat recovery and conversion of carryover water enthalpy into shaft horesepower, the unit disclosed provides high quality, high pressure steam for "steam drive" or thermal stimulation of petroleum wells through injection of high pressure steam and combustion gas mixtures. A particular feature of the burner/system disclosed provides compression of a burner oxidant such as atmospheric air, and shaft horesepower for pumping high pressure feedwater, from a lowest cost energy source such as leased crude, or other locally available fuel.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 29, 1983
Date of Patent:
February 12, 1985
Assignee:
Enhanced Energy Systems
Inventors:
Stephen Eisenhawer, Anthony J. Mulac, A. Burl Donaldson, Ronald L. Fox