Abstract: Method and apparatus for simultaneously producing hydrocarbon and water from the same stratum through spaced apart sets of perforations. The water is monitored for hydrocarbon content and injected into a disposal zone. The hydrocarbon content of the water and the water content of produced hydrocarbon are used to control the pumping rate of the water stream.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for effecting the gravitational separation of hydrocarbons and water discharged from a production formation of a subterranean well. The well casing is extended downwardly beyond the production zone to a water absorbing zone of the subterranean well. A mixture of hydrocarbons and water flows into the interior of the casing through perforations disposed adjacent the production zone. A fluid collection chamber is provided either exteriorly or interiorly of the casing perforations permitting the hydrocarbons to rise to the top of any water. The water flows downwardly, or is forcibly pumped downwardly to the water absorbing formation and is absorbed in such formation. If the fluid pressure of the formation is not sufficient to force the hydrocarbons to the surface of the well, any conventional pump may be mounted in the well casing to effect the pumping of the separated hydrocarbons to the well surface.