Abstract: Rotating elements receivable within an extractor trough of an extractor configured for non-aqueous extraction of bitumen from oil sands are described. The rotating element can include a shaft operatively couplable to a motor, and projections extending outwardly from the shaft and being removably secured thereto. The rotating element can also include a shaft mounting structure couplable to a shaft, comprising a shaft receiving hub configured for receiving the shaft therein. The rotation of the rotating element can provide digestion and extraction of bitumen from the oil sands while advancing solids in a downstream direction within the extractor trough, as solvent diluted bitumen flows in an upstream direction toward a liquid outlet. Methods for servicing a rotating element and for manufacturing a non-aqueous extraction (NAE) extractor are also provided.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 1, 2022
Date of Patent:
January 31, 2023
Assignees:
SUNCOR ENERGY INC., EXERGY SOLUTIONS
Inventors:
Ali Abbaspour, Jiayi Claire Cao, Farid Vaezi Ghobaeiyeh, Martin Hadzima, Iftikhar Huq