Plural Wells Patents (Class 166/52)
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Publication number: 20110259590Abstract: A sub-surface hydrocarbon production system comprising an energy delivery well extending from the surface to a location proximate a bottom of the hydrocarbons to be produced. A production well extends from the surface to a location proximate the hydrocarbon and a convection passage extends between the energy delivery well and the production well thereby forming a convection loop. The energy delivery well and the production well intersect at a location proximate the hydrocarbon such that the convection loop is in the form of a triangle. Preferably, the convection passage extends upwardly from a point at which the convection passage intersects the production well. The system also includes a heater, such as an electric heater or down-hole burner, disposed in the energy delivery well.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2010Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: AMERICAN SHALE OIL, LLCInventors: Alan K. Burnham, Roger L. Day, P. Henrick Wallman, James R. McConaghy
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Publication number: 20110247802Abstract: Systems and methods used in treating a subsurface formation are described herein. Some embodiments also generally relate to barriers that have novel components therein. Such barriers may be obtained by using the systems and methods described. Some embodiments also generally relate to systems, methods, and/or processes for treating fluid produced from the subsurface formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Inventors: Wolfgang Friedrich Johann Deeg, Mikhail Boris Geilikman, Fersheed Khodadad Mody
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Publication number: 20110180254Abstract: A system for producing oil and/or gas from an underground formation comprising a first well in the formation; a mechanism to inject a miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation into the first well; a second well in the formation; a mechanism to produce oil and/or gas from the second well; wherein the first well and the second well comprise an interior of the system; a plurality of containment wells exterior to the first well and the second well; and a mechanism to inject a containment agent into the containment wells.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2009Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Claudia Van Den Berg, Paul Clinton, Kees Van Gelder, Carolus Matthias Anna Maria Mesters, Patrick Guy Monin, Gerard Mulder, Raul Valdez, Dean Chien Wang
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Publication number: 20110132602Abstract: A system for producing oil and/or gas comprising a mechanism for releasing at least a portion of a sulfur containing compound into a formation; a first mechanism for converting at least a portion of the sulfur containing compound into a carbon disulfide formulation and/or a carbon oxysulfide formulation, the first mechanism for converting within the formation; and a second mechanism for converting at least a portion of the carbon disulfide formulation and/or a carbon oxysulfide formulation into another compound, the second mechanism for converting within the formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2009Publication date: June 9, 2011Inventors: Claudia Van Den Berg, Paul Clinton, Kees Van Gelder, Carolus Mattias Anna Maria Mesters, Patrick Guy Monin, Gerard Mulder, Raul Valdez, Dean Chien Wang
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Patent number: 7950464Abstract: An improved multi-well control system (MWCS) has a centrally based multi-well controller (MWC) in communication with one or more slave controllers and one or more electronic flow measurement devices (EFMs) for instant data monitoring and control of individual wells. The system also provides for an application host sub-system (AHSS) in communication with the MWC for historical and instant data retention. The system is capable of assigning one or more wells to a group for allocation purposes and organizing groups dependent on production levels of individual wells. The MWC is capable of tracking gas volumes produced by each well independent of groupings and communicating such data to the AHSS. The MWC provides monitoring and tracking data from one or more EFM devices and assigns total flow volume to individual wells. The entire MWCS can result in the reduction of manpower and an increase in overall production efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2007Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.Inventors: Michael E. Atencio, Mark A. Walsh
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Patent number: 7953584Abstract: A method is disclosed for optimal lift gas allocation, comprising: optimally allocating lift gas under a total lift gas constraint or a total produced gas constraint, the allocating step including distributing lift gas among all gas lifted wells in a network so as to maximize a liquid or oil rate at a sink.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2007Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorpInventor: Kashif Rashid
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Patent number: 7946340Abstract: A method and apparatus for orchestrating multiple fractures at multiple well locations in a region by flowing well treatment fluid from a centralized well treatment fluid center includes the steps of configuring a well treatment fluid center for fracturing multiple wells, inducing a fracture at a first well location, measuring effects of stress fields from the first fracture, determining a time delay based in part upon the measured stress effects, inducing a second fracture after the time delay at a second location based upon the measured effects, and measuring the stress effects of stress fields from the second fracture. Sensors disposed about the region are adapted to output effects of the stress fields. Location and orientation of subsequent fractures is based on the combined stress effects of the stress fields as a result of the prior fractures which provides for optimal region development.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2007Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Matt T. Howell, Leonard Case, Lonnie R. Robinson
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Publication number: 20110108269Abstract: A system for producing oil and/or gas from an underground formation comprising a first array of wells dispersed above the formation; a second array of wells dispersed above the formation; wherein the first array of wells comprises a mechanism to inject a miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation into the formation while the second array of wells comprises a mechanism to produce oil and/or gas from the formation for a first time period; a means to convert at least a portion of the miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation within the formation into another compound during a second time period; and a means to recover at least a portion of the another compound during a third time period.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2008Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventors: Claudia Van Den Berg, Kees Van Gelder, Carolus Matthias Anna Maria Mesters, Patrick Guy Monin, Gerard Mulder, Raul Valdez, Dean Chien Wang
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Patent number: 7931082Abstract: A method of servicing multiple well locations from a central location that includes the steps of configuring a central location for distribution of well development task fluids to centralized service factories through fluid lines; preparing the treatment fluids at the centralized service factories; and treating wells with the treatment fluids according to well development tasks associated with each well. A system for centralized well treatment operations that includes a centralized well treatment center which pumps well development task fluids to centralized service factories; a plurality of systems with well development mechanisms; a first connection and second connection between a well and the centralized service factories, wherein the connections are directed to flowing and recovering treatment fluids respectively; a third and fourth connection between another well and the well treatment factory, wherein the connections are directed to flowing and recovering treatment fluids respectively.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2007Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services Inc.,Inventor: Jim B. Surjaatmadja
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Publication number: 20110088897Abstract: The present invention relates to an enhanced oil recovery process that is integrated with a synthesis gas generation process, such as gasification or methane reforming, involving combined capture and recycle of carbon dioxide from both processes.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: GREATPOINT ENERGY, INC.Inventor: Pattabhi K. Raman
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Patent number: 7926561Abstract: A system for producing oil and/or gas from an underground formation comprising a first array of wells dispersed above the formation; a second array of wells dispersed above the formation; wherein the first array of wells comprises a mechanism to inject a miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation into the formation while the second array of wells comprises a mechanism to produce oil and/or gas from the formation for a first time period; and wherein the second array of wells comprises a mechanism to inject a remediation agent into the formation while the first array of wells comprises a mechanism to produce the miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation from the formation for a second time period.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2008Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventor: Steffen Berg
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Patent number: 7918269Abstract: Systems and methods for drainage of a heavy oil reservoir via a horizontal wellbore. A method of improving production of fluid from a subterranean formation includes the step of propagating a generally vertical inclusion into the formation from a generally horizontal wellbore intersecting the formation. The inclusion is propagated into a portion of the formation having a bulk modulus of less than approximately 750,000 psi. A well system includes a generally vertical inclusion propagated into a subterranean formation from a generally horizontal wellbore which intersects the formation. The formation comprises weakly cemented sediment.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Travis W. Cavender, Grant Hocking, Roger L. Schultz
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Patent number: 7909093Abstract: Methods and apparatus relate to in situ combustion. Configurations of injection and production wells facilitate the in situ combustion. A first production well disposed in a first oil bearing reservoir is spaced from a second production well disposed in a second oil bearing reservoir separated from the first oil bearing reservoir by a stratum having lower permeability than the first and second oil bearing reservoirs. The stratum isolates one of the first and second production wells from one of the first and second oil bearing reservoirs. In situ combustion through the first oil bearing reservoir generates heat that irradiates into the second oil bearing reservoir to enable producing hydrocarbon with the second production well.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: ConocoPhillips CompanyInventors: David Andrew Brown, Wayne Reid Dreher, Jr., Thomas J. Wheeler, Wendell Peter Menard
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Publication number: 20110017449Abstract: A once-through steam generator including one or more steam-generating circuits extending between inlet and outlet ends thereof and including one or more pipes, the steam-generating circuit having a heating segment at least partially defining a heating portion of the once-through steam generator, and one or more heat sources for generating heat to which the heating segment is subjected. The steam-generating circuit is adapted to receive feedwater at the inlet end, the feedwater being subjected to the heat from the heat source to convert the feedwater into steam and water. The pipe has a bore therein at least partially defined by an inner surface, and at least a portion of the inner surface has ribs at least partially defining a helical flow passage. The helical flow passage guides the water therealong for imparting a swirling motion thereto, to control concentrations of the impurities in the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: January 27, 2011Inventor: Alex J. Berruti
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Publication number: 20110005749Abstract: A system comprising a well drilled into an underground formation comprising hydrocarbons; a water supply; a steam production facility, the steam production facility comprising a filter to remove at least 80% of a quantity of divalent cations in the water supply; an exchange resin to remove at least 80% of a quantity of divalent cations in a filtered water stream that has already passed through the filter; a steam injection facility connected to the well and the steam production facility, adapted to inject the steam into the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2008Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: SHELL INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH MAATSCHAPPIJ B.V.Inventors: Michael Alvin Curole, Eugene Bruce Greene
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Publication number: 20100319909Abstract: A method for enhanced production of hydrocarbon fluids from an organic-rich rock formation such as an oil shale formation is provided. The method generally includes completing at least one heater well in the organic-rich rock formation, and also completing a production well in the organic-rich rock formation. The method also includes the steps of hydraulically fracturing the organic-rich rock formation from the production well such that one or more artificial fractures are formed, and heating the organic-rich rock formation from the at least one heater well, thereby pyrolyzing at least a portion of the organic-rich rock into hydrocarbon fluids Pyrolyzing the organic-rich rock formation creates thermal fractures in the formation due to thermal stresses created by heating. The thermal fractures intersect the artificial fractures. As an additional step, hydrocarbon fluids may be produced from the production well. Preferably, the organic-rich rock formation is an oil shale formation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventors: William A. Symington, Robert D. Kaminsky, James M. Hutfilz
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Patent number: 7854276Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus that are suitable for use in production of hydrocarbons from subterranean heavy oil deposits employ a subterranean cavity in communication with a borehole. The cavity is preferably formed along a U-tube borehole by coiled tubing reaming operations and/or radial drilling and explosive blasting.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2009Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Iain Cooper, Rex Burgos, Patrick Schneider, John Styre
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Publication number: 20100307759Abstract: A system for producing oil and/or gas from an underground formation comprising a first array of wells dispersed above the formation; a second array of wells dispersed above the formation; wherein the first array of wells comprises a mechanism to inject a miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation into the formation while the second array of wells comprises a mechanism to produce oil and/or gas from the formation for a first time period; and a means to convert at least a portion of the miscible enhanced oil recovery formulation within the formation into another compound during a second time period.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2008Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Steffen BERG, Carolus Matthias Anna Maria Mesters, Dean Chien Wang
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Publication number: 20100300672Abstract: A manifold for connecting one or more well service or completion apparatuses to a plurality of hydrocarbon wells comprises a block member which includes a flow bore having an inlet branch and a number of outlet branches, an inlet cross which is connected to the block member over the inlet branch, the inlet cross comprising an outlet bore which is in fluid communication with the inlet branch and a number of inlet bores which are in fluid communication with the outlet bore, a number of valves, each of which is connected to the bock member in fluid communication with a corresponding outlet branch, and a number of outlet crosses, each of which is connected to a corresponding valve. Each outlet cross comprises an inlet passage which is in fluid communication with the valve and plurality of outlet passages which are in fluid communication with the inlet passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Everett L. Childress, Michael R. Smego, Anthony L. McSparrin
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Publication number: 20100276983Abstract: This description is directed to a method and system for integrating an in-situ bitumen recovery operation with a bitumen mining operation for improved efficiencies and synergies therebetween. The method comprises obtaining a production fluid from the in-situ bitumen recovery operation, directing the production fluid to the bitumen mining operation, and incorporating the production fluid into the bitumen mining operation. The basic integrated system comprises a production well for recovering production fluid from the in-situ bitumen recovery operation, a bitumen mining and extraction facility, and a transporter for directing the production fluid from the production well to the bitumen mining and extraction facility for incorporation into the mining and extraction operation. The in-situ recovery operation may be a thermal operation, such as steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD), cyclic steam stimulation (CSS), or a derivative thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2008Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventors: James Andrew Dunn, Brian C. Speirs
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Patent number: 7819187Abstract: The system of subterranean wells includes a subsurface flow line 20 having at least a portion within or underlining one or more subterranean formations 12. One or more drainage wells 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 each extend from the surface and intercept at least one of the subterranean formations at a respective interception location. A lower portion of each drainage well is in fluid communication with the subsurface flow line. A recovery well 42 extends from the surface and is also in fluid communication with the subsurface flow line, so that fluids entering the drainage well flow into the subsurface flow line and then into the recovery well.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2008Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignees: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc., Dynamic Production, Inc.Inventors: Stephen A. Graham, Charles E. Graham, III, Jonathon G. Weiss
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Publication number: 20100243241Abstract: In one general implementation, a method for identifying fluids in a wellbore includes generating light in a visible spectrum from a light source in a production wellbore; generating light in an ultraviolet spectrum from the light source in the production wellbore; receiving a first fluid in the production wellbore from a subterranean zone; receiving a second fluid in the production wellbore from the subterranean zone; capturing at least one image of a combined flow of the first fluid and the second fluid in at least one of the visible spectrum and the ultraviolet spectrum with an optical receiver in the production wellbore; and distinguishing, at least in part through the image, the first fluid from the second fluid in either or both the visible and ultraviolet spectrums.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: Occidental Chemical CorporationInventors: David Wayne Hampton, Robert Charles Kramm
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Publication number: 20100243246Abstract: There is disclosed a system comprising a well drilled into an underground formation comprising hydrocarbons; a production facility at a topside of the well; a water production facility connected to the production facility; wherein the water production facility produces water by removing some multivalent ions, then removing some monovalent ions, and then adding back some multivalent ions, and then injects the water into the well.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventors: Subhash Chandra Bose AYIRALA, Robert Wing-yu CHIN, Michael Alvin CUROLE, Eugene Bruce GREENE
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Publication number: 20100212894Abstract: Methods and apparatus relate to both generating steam for injection into a wellbore and capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) produced when generating the steam. A direct steam generator (DSG) makes the steam by contacting water with a combustion area for hydrogen and oxygen. Quantity of the steam made exceeds quantity of water input into the steam generator since the steam includes vaporized water resulting from combustion of the hydrogen and oxygen mixed with the water inputted and heated. Steam-methane-reforming or autothermal-reforming produces the hydrogen stripped of the CO2 prior to introduction into the steam generator. Further, an air separation unit supplies the oxygen to the steam generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2010Publication date: August 26, 2010Applicant: CONOCOPHILLIPS COMPANYInventors: Edward G. Latimer, Steven A. Treese
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Publication number: 20100200229Abstract: Some embodiments teach a method of recovering hydrocarbons from a hydrocarbon formation. The method including: (a) generating injection gas, the injection gas having at least a predetermined pressure and a predetermined temperature; (b) injecting the injection gas into the hydrocarbon formation, and (c) recovering the hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon formation. Other embodiments are disclosed in this application.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: HAMCO Energy CorporationInventor: Raymond Jefferd
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Publication number: 20100193193Abstract: A method and system for use in association with a subterranean reservoir containing reservoir material, for separating the reservoir material into components and for producing one or more of the reservoir material components at a surface production location. The reservoir material components include one or more liquid components and a solid component. The system includes a subterranean cavern located below the reservoir. A drain extends between the reservoir and the cavern for draining the reservoir material from the reservoir into the cavern so that the reservoir material may be collected and separated into the reservoir material components in the cavern. A production well extends between the cavern and the surface production location for producing one or more of the reservoir material components at the surface production location. Preferably, one or more of the liquid components are produced at the surface production location while retaining the solid component in the cavern.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2007Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: C-FER TECHNOLOGIES (1999) INC.Inventors: Brian T. Wagg, Cameron M. Matthews, Damien Clapa, Christopher Michael John Timms
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Publication number: 20100175872Abstract: Methods and apparatus relate to in situ combustion. Configurations of injection and production wells facilitate the in situ combustion. A first production well disposed in a first oil bearing reservoir is spaced from a second production well disposed in a second oil bearing reservoir separated from the first oil bearing reservoir by a stratum having lower permeability than the first and second oil bearing reservoirs. The stratum isolates one of the first and second production wells from one of the first and second oil bearing reservoirs. In situ combustion through the first oil bearing reservoir generates heat that irradiates into the second oil bearing reservoir to enable producing hydrocarbon with the second production well.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Applicant: ConocoPhillips CompanyInventors: David Andrew Brown, Wayne Reid Dreher, JR., Thomas J. Wheeler, Wendell Peter Menard
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Patent number: 7753122Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for extracting and/or utilizing thermal energy from rock formations. This Abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an Abstract that allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain subject matter of the technical disclosure. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: TerraWatt Holdings CorporationInventor: Harry B. Curlett
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Publication number: 20100163229Abstract: A process for recovering hydrocarbons from an in situ formation. The process includes the steps of injecting steam though an injection well into an underground extraction chamber having a hydrocarbon extraction interface, warming the hydrocarbons at the extraction interface to cause the hydrocarbons to flow downwardly by gravity drainage and to release dissolved hydrocarbon gases and moving the hydrocarbon gases from the extraction interface to improve heat transfer from said steam to said interface. The last step is to recover liquids such as hydrocarbons and water through a production well. The invention provides adding a buoyancy modifying agent to the steam to cause the hydrocarbon gases to accumulate in the well in a preferred location. The preferred location is at the top of the chamber where the gases protect the top of the chamber from being extracted to the point of breakthrough.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2007Publication date: July 1, 2010Inventor: John Nenniger
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Publication number: 20100155060Abstract: The present invention is a process for recovering oil from an underground oil-containing reservoir. The process includes providing one or more injection wells for injecting a gaseous fluid (steam and air) into the reservoir, the one or more injection wells having a plurality of generally horizontal injector legs, the injector legs positioned within a first depth region in the reservoir. The process further includes providing one or more extraction wells for recovering oil from the reservoir, the one or more extraction wells having plurality of generally horizontal extractor legs, the extractor legs positioned within a second depth region in the reservoir below the first depth region and spaced between the injector legs. Gaseous fluid, typically steam, is injected through the injector legs for a first period of time; and then air is injected through at least one of the injector legs. Alternative embodiments of the invention are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2009Publication date: June 24, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Mohsen R. Hanna
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Publication number: 20100155048Abstract: An environmentally and economically more efficient petroleum production/refining/utilization system for managing carbon emissions at all stages of the petroleum lifecycle is provided. The system of the current invention integrates the release of carbon from refined low value, high polluting petroleum products such that those sources of carbon may be utilized in a manner beneficial to the efficiency and environmental footprint of the overall petroleum processing lifecycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2009Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventors: David J. Hackett, Marshall A. Bell
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Patent number: 7740062Abstract: A system and a method for recovering hydrocarbons from a reservoir containing hydrocarbons, by in-situ combustion. The system includes a primary liquid production wellbore having a substantially horizontal primary production length extending through the reservoir, a vent well in fluid communication with the reservoir at a venting position which is relatively higher in the reservoir than the primary production length, an injector apparatus in fluid communication with the reservoir along an injection line in the reservoir which is relatively higher in the reservoir than the primary production length and relatively lower in the reservoir than the venting position, and an injection gas source connected with the injector apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2008Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Alberta Research Council Inc.Inventors: Git Lim, John Ivory, Roy Coates
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Publication number: 20100147524Abstract: A multi-function multi-hole rig including multiple machines for accomplishing various rig functions, e.g., drilling machine(s), tripping machine(s), casing machine(s), cementing machine(s), workover machine(s), etc., for drilling, completing and/or working over multiple wellbores without moving the rig. Rig functions may be performed one after the other and/or simultaneously, while allowing other functions related to completion and production to continue simultaneously.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, Dean A. Bennett, David Gilbert Reid
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Patent number: 7730942Abstract: A method and equipment for reducing or avoiding multiple dispersions in fluid flows each having two or more non-mixable fluid components with different specific gravities and viscosities, in particular fluid flows of oil, gas and water from different oil/gas production wells (B1-B8) in formations beneath the surface of the earth or sea. The fluid flow from each well (B1-B8), depending on whether it is oil-continuous (o/w) or water-continuous (w/o), is fed to a transport pipeline (T) so that the oil-continuous fluid flows (o/w) are supplied to the transport line (T) first and the water-continuous fluid flows (w/o) second, or the two fluid flows (o/w, w/o) are fed to two separate transport lines (T1, T2). In a preferred embodiment, the two separate transport lines (T1, T2) may be connected to a common transport line (T); the two fluid flows (o/w, w/o) are mixed before further transport and any subsequent separation in a separator.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Norsk Hydro ASAInventors: Per Eivind Gramme, Gunnar Hannibal Lie
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Publication number: 20100101784Abstract: An in situ heat treatment system for producing hydrocarbons from a subsurface formation includes a plurality of wellbores in the formation. At least one heater is positioned in at least two of the wellbores. A self-regulating nuclear reactor provides energy to at least one of the heaters to heat the temperature of the formation to temperatures that allow for hydrocarbon production from the formation. A temperature of the self-regulating nuclear reactor is controlled by controlling a pressure of hydrogen supplied to the self-regulating nuclear reactor, and wherein the pressure is regulated based upon formation conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2009Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Scott Vinh Nguyen
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Publication number: 20100096128Abstract: Recovery of hydrocarbon fluid from low permeability sources is enhanced by introduction of a treating fluid. The treating fluid may include one or more constituent ingredients designed to cause displacement of hydrocarbon via imbibition. The constituent ingredients may be determined based on estimates of formation wettability. Further, contact angle may be used to determine wettability. Types and concentrations of constituent ingredients such as surfactants may be determined for achieving the enhanced recovery of hydrocarbons.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Jerald J. Hinkel, Kevin W. England
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Publication number: 20100071897Abstract: Computer-implemented systems and methods are provided for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery from subsurface formations, including subsurface formations having bottom water or edgewater. A system and method can be configured to receive data indicative of by-pass oil areas in the subsurface formation from reservoir simulation, identify flow barriers in the subsurface formation based on the by-pass oil areas identified by the reservoir simulation, and predict the lateral extension of the identified flow barriers in the subsurface formation. Infill horizontal wells can be placed at areas of the subsurface formation relative to the flow barriers such that production from a horizontal well in the subsurface formation optimizes hydrocarbon recovery.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicants: Chevron U.S.A. Inc., China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC)Inventors: Song Liu, Lixin Tian, Xian-Huan Wen, Chunming Zhao, Qinghong Yang, Peng Zhang, Dengen Zhou, Bo Li, Lichuan Lan, Lizhen Ge, Xinwu Liao, Fengli Zhang, Michael Sheng-Wei Wei
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Publication number: 20100065268Abstract: The present invention is directed to an in situ reservoir recovery process that uses a horizontal well located near the top of a reservoir and an inclined production well to extract bitumen or heavy oil from a reservoir. In a first stage, the top well is used for cold production of reservoir fluids to the surface, in which, reservoir fluids are pumped to the surface in the absence of stimulation by steam or other thermal and/or solvent injection. A lower production well is drilled into the formation below the top well. The top well is converted to an injection well or, if no cold production then a top well is drilled as an injector well. A portion of the bottom well is inclined so that one end of the incline is closer to the injector well than the other end of the incline. In the process, steam circulation creates a heated zone at the point of the two wells that are closest together in the reservoir.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2007Publication date: March 18, 2010Applicant: UTI LIMITED PARTNERSHIPInventors: Ian Donald GATES, Stephen Richard Richard Larter, Jennifer Jane ADAMS
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Publication number: 20100059454Abstract: An underground plume of water and soil which has been contaminated typically by H2S and/or hydrocarbon leakage from underground fuel containers is mitigated by a process of injecting a combination of colloids, peroxides and enzymes. This is accomplished by obtaining core samples to determine the extent of contamination thereby defining the perimeter of the plume, and drilling a series of injection well sites on a pavement or other surface to mitigate the leakage. In a first stage of mitigation, a colloid containing micelles is pressured into the injection wells, the colloid functioning to neutralize hydrocarbons, MTBE, solvents, and similar compounds, thereby mitigating the plume contamination. In a second stage, if mitigation of the plume contamination proves insufficient using colloid treatment, peroxides are then pressured into the injection wells. Typical peroxides could include hydrogen peroxide and various other peroxides.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2008Publication date: March 11, 2010Inventors: Nima Kabir, Lilyanna Perez, Yones Kabir
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Patent number: 7669657Abstract: A method for enhanced production of hydrocarbon fluids from an organic-rich rock formation such as an oil shale formation is provided. The method generally includes completing at least one heater well in the organic-rich rock formation, and also completing a production well in the organic-rich rock formation. The method also includes the steps of hydraulically fracturing the organic-rich rock formation from the production well such that one or more artificial fractures are formed, and heating the organic-rich rock formation from the at least one heater well, thereby pyrolyzing at least a portion of the organic-rich rock into hydrocarbon fluids Pyrolyzing the organic-rich rock formation creates thermal fractures in the formation due to thermal stresses created by heating. The thermal fractures intersect the artificial fractures. As an additional step, hydrocarbon fluids may be produced from the production well. Preferably, the organic-rich rock formation is an oil shale formation.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2007Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research CompanyInventors: William A. Symington, Robert D. Kaminsky, James M. Hutfilz
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Publication number: 20100038088Abstract: A multi-function multi-hole rig is disclosed which, in certain aspects, includes multiple machines for accomplishing rig functions, e.g. drilling machine(s), tripping machine(s), casing machine(s), and/or cementing machine(s), for producing multiple usable wellbores one after the other. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2008Publication date: February 18, 2010Inventors: Frank Benjamin Springett, David Gilbert Reid, Guy L. McClung, III
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Patent number: 7654322Abstract: A system including a mechanism for recovering oil and/or gas from an underground formation, the oil and/or gas comprising one or more sulfur compounds; a mechanism for converting at least a portion of the sulfur compounds from the recovered oil and/or gas into a carbon disulfide formulation; and a mechanism for releasing at least a portion of the carbon disulfide formulation into a formation.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2008Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Dean Chien Wang, Alexander Michiel Mollinger, Douglas Charlton McCammon, Raul Valdez, Johan Jacobus Van Dorp, Eric Johannes Puik, Michael Zvi Golombok, Willem Van Vark, Michiel Jan Groeneveld, Brendan Dermot Murray, Thomas Mikus
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Patent number: 7647976Abstract: A system for steam-assisted gravity drainage for heavy oil production has a first well, a second well, a first platform connected to the well head of the first well so as to inject steam into the first well, and a second platform connected to the well head of the second well for producing heavy oil from the second well. The platforms are arranged in parallel flow relationship. Each of the platform has a first level with flow lines extending longitudinally therealong and a second level located above the first level and having piping connected to the flow lines of the first level. The second level includes valves and controllers cooperative with the piping. The platforms are modular in nature and can be connected to other platforms.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Inventor: Maoz Betzer Tsilevich
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Patent number: 7637316Abstract: A wellbore system is provided for the production of hydrocarbon fluid from a hydrocarbon fluid reservoir (4) in an earth formation. The wellbore system comprises a first wellbore (18) drilled from a first surface location at a horizontal distance from the hydrocarbon fluid reservoir, the first wellbore having a lower section (10) extending from a rock formation outside the reservoir, into the reservoir, and a second wellbore (20) drilled from a second surface location horizontally displaced from the first surface location. The second wellbore (20) extend towards the first wellbore (18) and is in fluid communication with the reservoir (4) via said lower section (10) of the first wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Bruno Best, Albert Cornelis Pols
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Patent number: 7635025Abstract: A system for treating a hydrocarbon containing formation includes a steam and electricity cogeneration facility. At least one injection well is located in a first portion of the formation. The injection well provides steam from the steam and electricity cogeneration facility to the first portion of the formation. At least one production well is located in the first portion of the formation. The production well in the first portion produces first hydrocarbons. At least one electrical heater is located in a second portion of the formation. At least one of the electrical heaters is powered by electricity from the steam and electricity cogeneration facility. At least one production well is located in the second portion of the formation. The production well in the second portion produces second hydrocarbons. The steam and electricity cogeneration facility uses the first hydrocarbons and/or the second hydrocarbons to generate electricity.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Harold J. Vinegar, Thomas David Fowler, John Michael Karanikas
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Patent number: 7631706Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus that are suitable for use in production of hydrocarbons from subterranean heavy oil deposits employ a subterranean cavity in communication with a borehole. The cavity is preferably formed along a U-tube borehole by coiled tubing reaming operations and/or radial drilling and explosive blasting.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2007Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Iain Cooper, Rex Burgos, Patrick Schneider, John Styre
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Publication number: 20090288843Abstract: The present disclosure involves the release or recovery of subterranean hydrocarbon deposits and, more specifically, to a system and method for secondary and/or enhanced oil recovery (EOR), by utilizing waterflooding compositions that include enzymes as well as methods for injecting waterflooding compositions into subterranean formations for oil recovery operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2009Publication date: November 26, 2009Inventor: John L. Gray
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Patent number: 7571771Abstract: A method for accessing a subterranean zone includes forming a subterranean cavity coupled to a land surface and forming a plurality of substantially horizontal bores extending at least partially into the subterranean zone and intersecting the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: CDX Gas, LLCInventors: Christopher A. Pratt, Douglas P. Seams
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Publication number: 20090194273Abstract: A method and apparatus for orchestrating multiple fractures at multiple well locations in a region by flowing well treatment fluid from a centralized well treatment fluid center is disclosed that includes the steps of configuring a well treatment fluid center for fracturing multiple wells, inducing a fracture at a first well location, measuring effects of stress fields from the first fracture, determining a time delay based in part upon the measured stress effects, inducing a second fracture after the time delay at a second location based upon the measured effects, and measuring the stress effects of stress fields from the second fracture. Sensors disposed about the region are adapted to output effects of the stress fields. Location and orientation of subsequent fractures is based on the combined stress effects of the stress fields as a result of the prior fractures which provides for optimal region development.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2007Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Matt T. Howell, Leonard Case, Lonnie R. Robinson
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Publication number: 20090194287Abstract: A heating system for a subsurface formation includes an elongated electrical conductor located in the subsurface formation. The electrical conductor extends between at least a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. A ferromagnetic conductor at least partially surrounds and at least partially extends lengthwise around the electrical conductor. The electrical conductor, when energized with time-varying electrical current, induces sufficient electrical current flow in the ferromagnetic conductor such that the ferromagnetic conductor resistively heats to a temperature of at least about 300° C.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2008Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventors: Scott Vinh Nguyen, David John Liney, Mark Thomas Carroll, Ronald M. Bass