Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring the temperature and pressure in a well bore is used in connection with a submersible pump disposed in the well bore and electrically energized by a power conductor suspended in the well bore. A plurality of resistors and a plurality of pressure sensitive switches are disposed in the well bore along with a temperature sensitive circuit element. A constant current source at the surface provides a dc sensing signal that is superimposed on the power cable. A single voltage reading taken at the surface provides a measure of both temperature and pressure in the well bore.

Abstract: A seal assembly of the mechanical face seal type has features to reduce leakage across the faces. The seal assembly includes a stationary seal ring through which a rotating shaft passes. A rotating seal ring is mounted around the shaft for rotation therewith. A spring urges the rotating seal ring into contact with the stationary seal ring. A plurality of concentric, nonintersecting grooves are placed on the face of the stationary seal ring to enhance sealing.

Abstract: An electrical cable has features that allow its use in wells containing oil, water and gas, for use with submersible pumps. The cable has a number of conductors. Each conductor is surrounded by an insulating layer of oil and brine resistant thermosetting material. The insulating layer is permeable to gas. A polymeric jacket is extruded around all of the conductors, separating the conductors from each other and in direct physical contact with the insulating layers. Perforations are placed in the jacket at regular intervals. During rapid depressurization, gas absorbed in the insulating layers is able to flow freely from the cable by means of the perforations in the jacket. The jacket has sufficient strength to prevent rupturing of the insulating layers during depressurization.

Abstract: Electrical conductors having suitable combinations of coatings and coverings are disclosed which have the ability to inhibit low molecular weight hydrocarbon well fluids when under pressure and withstand high proportions of gassy hydrocarbons under pressure without undergoing rupture failure.

Abstract: Electrical conductors having an insulation layer comprising a thermosetting elastomeric composition capable of imbibing low molecular weight hydrocarbon well fluids when under pressure and rapidly desorbing the fluids when pressure is removed, and surrounded by a confining braid layer are able to withstand use in gassy oil wells without consequent depressurization-caused rupture failures. Armored electrical cables formed from these insulated conductors without an elastomeric jacketing are suitable for use in powering electric motors in oil wells that have particularly high proportions of gassy hydrocarbons under pressure without undergoing rupture failure.

Abstract: Electrical cables having conductors, each provided with an insulation layer comprising a thermosetting elastomeric composition capable of imbibing low molecular weight well fluids when under pressure and rapidly desorbing the fluids when pressure is relieved which is surrounded by a confining braid layer, the insulated and braid-covered conductors being surrounded by a perforated outer armor formed of high temperature polyolefin, are able to withstand the environment within corrosive, gassy oil wells without corrosion of the armor and without undergoing depressurization-caused rupture failures.