Abstract: A process and apparatus for removing particulate matter from fluid wells where low pH conditions or high temperature exist. The process comprises forming a cylindrical shaped retainer having one closed and one open end. Said retainer has an inner and an outer wall which join with said closed end to provide a space between said walls. An open ended fused porous refractory tube is fitted within said space. Said retainer, with the refractory tube therein, is affixed to a delivery tube. This tube is directed into a formation where said refractory tube is used to control fines or sandflow entrained in fluids obtained from said formation. Being sandwiched between said walls, the refractory tube is protected from shock and is easily removed for cleaning. Said refractory tube is chemically resistant and endures high temperatures encountered during steam-flooding or steam injection.

Abstract: A well screen device having body member, screen member attached to the body member, cup member attached to the body member for positioning the device in a fluid flow path, and channel member for conducting screened fluid from the screen. The device's cup member extends outwardly or is extensible outwardly from the device sufficiently to contact the interior surface of the flow path in which the device is emplaced to prevent the flow of unscreened fluid beyond the device. The body member can be solid or hollow with plugged ends. Spacer members can be used to mount the cup member to the body member and to provide a portion of the channel member for conducting the screened fluid past the cup member.

Abstract: A device for facilitating the placement of particulate solids into voids. In particular, the device allows boreholes to be filled with a particulate solid material with a reduction in the amount of turbulence thereby allowing the achieving of the proper density for the particulate material. The device includes an improved mantle mounted adjacent the outlet end of the particulate material supply tube for separating the particulate solid material from liquids and gases. The mantle has a perforated portion in contact with the supply tube and a solid portion in contact with the borehole.