Patents by Inventor Vincent G. Tafoya

Vincent G. Tafoya has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Steam injection apparatus and method
    Patent number: 4046199
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for directing steam into selected strata of a relatively thick subterranean formation penetrated by a well. The apparatus includes an elongated housing attachable to the lower end of the well tubing, the housing having a closed lower end and a plurality of jets spaced around the sidewall thereof so as to be positioned opposite the strata to be treated. The jets direct the steam outwardly and downwardly against the formation face, causing it to preferentially enter the selected strata.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1977
    Assignee: Union Oil Company of California
    Inventor: Vincent G. Tafoya