Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling a well plunger system for the production of natural gas is described. The well plunger system includes a plunger tube positioned within a casing of a gas well, a tubing line connected to the plunger tube, a plunger moveable within the plunger tube, a plunger sensor for detecting the presence of the plunger, a valve connected to the tubing line and to the general gas distribution system including a sales line and a gas flow meter, a pressure sensor connected to the sales line, a motor for operating the valve, and a pressure sensor connected to the casing. The controller calculates the duration of an open interval when the valve is opened and a closed interval when the valve is closed based on a calculated average plunger velocity of the plunger after the valve is opened. The controller compensates for changes in sales line pressure by adjusting the calculated average plunger velocity by an amount equivalent to the changes in sales line pressure.

Abstract: A downhole production well control system is provided for automatically controlling downhole tools in response to sensed selected downhole parameters. An important feature of this invention is that the automatic control is initiated downhole without an initial control signal from the surface or from some other external source. This control system generally comprises downhole sensors, downhole electromechanical devices and downhole computerized control electronics whereby the control electronics automatically control the electromechanical devices based on input from the downhole sensors. Thus, using the downhole sensors, the downhole computerized control system will monitor actual downhole parameters (such as pressure, temperature, flow, gas influx, etc.) and automatically execute control instructions when the monitored downhole parameters are outside a selected operating range (e.g., indicating an unsafe condition).

Abstract: The invention is a system for drawing off multiphase effluents. The system includes a drum; at least one assembly, located in the drum, for drawing a multiphase fluid contained in the drum to outside the drum, the at least one assembly including a section through which the multiphase fluid is drawn to flow outside the drum, and extending over a substantial portion of a height of the drum; at least one sensor for sensing at least one flow condition of the multiphase fluid and for providing a signal representing each sensed flow condition of the multiphase fluid; and a mechanism, coupled to the at least one sensor, for modifying the section of multiphase flow as a function of each signal representing a sensed flow condition.

Abstract: A system adapted for controlling and/or monitoring a plurality of production wells from a remote location is provided. This system is capable of controlling and/or monitoring: (1) a plurality of zones in a single production well; (2) a plurality of zones/wells in a single location (e.g., a single platform); or (3) a plurality of zones/wells located at a plurality of locations (e.g., multiple platforms). The multizone and/or multiwell control system of this invention is composed of multiple downhole electronically controlled electromechanical devices and multiple computer based surface systems operated from multiple locations. Important functions for these systems include the ability to predict the future flow profile of multiple wells and to monitor and control the fluid or gas flow from either the formation into the wellbore, or from the wellbore to the surface.

Abstract: A portable oil recovery apparatus especially for use at de-pressurized wells. It is simple and inexpensive to build and to operate. The apparatus is small and lightweight enough so that it can be transported in a pickup truck for easy movement between well sites, and it can be installed by only two people. The apparatus employs a simple pulley system which dips a string of cups repeatedly into the well bore just deep enough to reach the oil and not deep enough to collect any water. Thus, little or no water is mixed with the recovered product, and no tubing or rods are necessary. The pulley system is automatically operated and requires little supervision and maintenance. The dipping cups are generally cylindrical, each having a central longitudinal tube extending therethrough by which the cup is supported on the string. Each cup has a lid with a plurality of depending fingers which extend down into the cup.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for remediation of soil, vapor and groundwater contaminated with hydrocarbons. The system is ideally suited for easy integration into a mobile remediation unit that uses a liquid ring vacuum pump to extract a contaminated mixture from a sub-surface formation and direct it into a separator, which also serves to shield the high-flow vacuum pump from non-gaseous phases of the contaminated matter that would otherwise reduce its efficiency. Cooling systems are employed to render the unit more independent and self-contained, and an automatic vent and low-shear pump-down cycle is used to transfer liquid phases to fractionation subsystems with minimal emulsification.

Abstract: The basic method is to raise the temperatures of the tube, rod and liquid in the well into a range in which paraffin and asphaltene are removable by fluid flow in and from the well. The temperatures are raised by circulating the liquid through the well and a heat exchanger which heats the fluid which subsequently heats the well components. The well pump provides the circulation flow. In a preferred practice of the method, operation is such that the annulus of the well is essentially empty and the liquid recirculated until the difference between the temperatures of fluid flowing into the well and on the outer surfaces of the tube and fluid flowing out is within a desired range and then some of the fluid is diverted to storage while the remaining fluid is recirculated and heated to maintain the higher temperatures throughout the well as long as needed.

Abstract: Method and system of operating an Intelligent Pump-and-Treat groundwater recovery system where the groundwater level is monitored in monitoring wells and that information transmitted to a computer controller. The computer controller calculates a new groundwater extraction flow rate required to maintain a desired capture zone and then automatically changes the flow rate of the groundwater extraction pump accordingly.

Abstract: Gas in association with liquids is produced from a wellbore by disposing a first tubing string having a first fluid communication path into the wellbore to near or below the bottom of a producing zone, disposing within the annulus between the first tubing string and the outer surface of the wellbore a second fluid communication path from near or below the bottom of the producing zone to an offtake line at the surface, disposing a choke means in at least one of the fluid communication paths, and producing gas while controlling the choke means to establish sufficient gas flow up the first fluid communication path so as to unload liquids from near or below the bottom of the producing zone and produce the liquids up the first tubing string in association with gas flow. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the first tubing string has a sufficiently small diameter that liquids can be unloaded from the well over life of the production.

Abstract: A method of producing gas through liquid level detection in oil or gas wells uses various types of artificial lift systems that include sub surface gas lift, beam pumps, progressive cavity pump and submersible pumps. The artificial lift systems are controlled in response to a known liquid level within the well bore to prevent the well from pumping off and damaging the artificial lift system or from reducing the liquid level in the well bore to an unnecessarily low level to thereby increase the energy required by the artificial lift system to remove the liquid from the well bore.

Abstract: There is provided a bio-remediation system and a method associated therewith for remediating a spilled hydrocarbon-based fluid from soil effectively and without causing migration of the fluid to previously uncontaminated areas. The bio-remediation system removes hydrocarbon-based fluid from a subterranean location using microbes which are immersed in a nutrient-rich medium. The microbes biologically remediate the hydrocarbon-based fluid by consuming the hydrocarbon-based fluid. The bio-remediation system ensures that the microbes and the nutrient-rich medium do not extend below the water table thus producing further contamination by monitoring moisture levels and levels of respiratory gases in the soil. When the microbes descend too deep, an air pump is actuated to dry a buffer zone between the water table and the spilled hydrocarbon-based fluid, thus halting progression of the microbes in the nutrient-rich medium.

Abstract: A multi-point recovery system for recovering fluid from a plurality of wells, including a pumping apparatus which connects a suction pump sequentially to different wells or groups of wells. The apparatus includes a row of ports in a surface above which a carriage moves on wheels to connect the suction pump to different ports or groups of ports in turn. Hoses are inserted into each well and connect to the ports. The hoses have a high point near the well providing a gravity trap to prevent recovered fluid from running back into the well. The wells may be sealed at the top to allow pumping of soil air.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of dropping a pumpdown plug or ball is revealed. The release mechanism is actuated by remote control, employing intrinsically safe circuitry. The circuitry, along with its self-contained power source, actuates a primary control member responsive to an input signal so as to allow component shifting for release of the pumpdown plug or ball. Multiple plug-dropping heads can be stacked, each responsive to a discrete release signal. Actuation to drop the pumpdown ball or plug is accomplished even while the components are rotating or are moving longitudinally.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for reducing or eliminating non-naturally occurring, subsurface, liquid contaminants from one or more soil formations, which involves the steps of pneumatically fracturing the soil formation to produce a fracture network; simultaneously or subsequently inserting into said fracture network and throughout adjacent portions of the soil formation, a pressurized gas stream, and introducing into the pressurized gas stream a mixture of one or more liquid amendments, wherein said pressurized gas, in conjunction with said liquid amendments, has an oxygen or other electron acceptor content sufficient to promote the growth of aerobic or other microorganisms in said fracture network, and wherein the pressurized gas has a sufficiently high gas to liquid ratio to atomize the liquid amendments, whereby the amendments are distributed throughout the soil formation.

Abstract: Remotely controllable fluid flow control valves are disposed in the main wellbore and branch wellbores of a multiple well. Each flow control valve has a radio frequency range receiver, a controller and an actuator for moving a closure member to a selected position to control fluid flow in the wellbore in which the valve is disposed. A signal transmitter may be conveyed into the main wellbore by an E-line or coilable tubing and radio frequency range electromagnetic wave energy signals may be transmitted to the selected valve to effect fluid flow control within each wellbore of the multiple well. The remotely controllable valves eliminate expensive and difficult procedures associated with reentering branch wells extending from a central or main wellbore.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of controlling a surface safety valve and a subsurface safety valve in a producing hydrocarbons well, comprising: providing a self contained control circuitry including a reservoir for a hydraulic fluid; sensing a drop below a pre-established level of pressure in a flowline distal to the surface safety valve and a drop below a pre-established level of pressure in a portion of a hydraulic circuit fluidly connected to a subsurface safety valve proximal to the subsurface safety valve, and responsive to sensing a drop of the pressure in either the flowline or the circuitry proximal to the subsurface valve: first draining fluid to the reservoir from a portion of the circuitry means hydraulically maintaining the surface safety valve open, then after a first time delay sufficient for closure of the surface safety valve, secondly draining fluid to the reservoir from a portion of the circuitry means hydraulically maintaining the subsurface safety valve open, and then after a second time delay suff

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a production facility containing a well that produces subterranean fluids and gas is disclosed. The production facility is connected to a receiving facility by a pipeline having a pipeline pressure. The production facility has a remote control system that has operably associated therewith a controlling valve member, and a safety system containing a surface valve, and a subsurface valve. Generally, the method comprises the steps of setting the following pressures: a pipeline high pressure level, a pipeline low pressure level, a control system upper pressure level, and a control system lower pressure level. Next, the receiving facility is shut-in, and the pipeline pressure is monitored. According to the pressure level achieved in the pipeline, a signal in response thereto is generated, and thereafter a remote control system valve member may be activated thereby closing the valve.

Abstract: A subterranean pump of compact design can be inserted into boreholes commonly used for exploratory drill holes to observe subterranean contaminants. The pump operates at the water-oil interface so as to draw off contaminating oil while avoiding the unnecessary pumping of water which would deplete the capacity of the pump. Preferably, the subterranean pump is a jet pump (ejector or educator) which operates on fluids pumped back down-hole by an above ground auxiliary pump. The down-hole pump is maintained at the water-oil interface by floats or other sensors which detect the water-oil interface and operate an electrical hoist or other lifting device to raise and lower the pump in the borehole.

Abstract: A well rod pump having a filter system to remove particulate material from the fluids produced from the well and an automatic back flush system using pumped fluid to flush particulate material from the filter system in response to increased pressure differential across the filter system, including a rod moved by a piston to open the valves of the pump, and a time delay connected to continue to hold the valves open for a period sufficient to allow back flushed particles to settle in the well. Well treatment chemicals may be injected into the well with the back flushing fluid.

Abstract: Methods of controlling a downhole tool in a well are disclosed wherein pressure change signals are introduced into a column of fluid standing in the well. The command signal includes at least one high level pressure change applied to the column of fluid. The high level pressure change includes a change from a first value to a second value, with the second value being at least about 1,000 psi above hydrostatic pressure of the column of fluid in the well, and with pressure being maintained at the second value for an interval of time corresponding to information stored in a control system of the downhole valve. A number of suitable command signal formats are disclosed, particularly including pressure drop signals.

Abstract: A float (26) resides at an interface (21) between a first liquid (20) floating on another liquid (22). A pneumatic pressure sensor (32) senses back-pressure at the float (26) via a conduit (30) and a bubbler hole, or pressure sensing point (28) and relays the information to a recorder (37). Also, a combination detection and recovery device employs the above detection device coupled with a floating liquid skimming device. The recovery unit (90) of the skimming device has a bubbler hole (168) connected to pressure sensor (32) via conduit (30). The pressure sensor (32) is then connected to a pump (88) via another conduit (38). When the pressure at the bubbler hole (168) reaches a predetermined value corresponding to a given fluid thickness, the sensor (32) activates the pump (88) which moves the floating liquid (20) from the recovery unit (90) to a fluid receptacle (102).

Abstract: Hydrocarbon production from a low permeability formation is increased by fracturing a production interval in the formation and restricting the release of pressure from the fracture to lengthen the time that the reservoir pressure remains above the fracture collapse pressure.

Abstract: A shut-off control system for an oil/gas well casing is described which is intended to protect a discharge manifold from which the oil or gas is extracted. An explosion-proof bunker is positioned below the ground level and contains a valve which can be opened to permit flow of oil or gas through the well casing or to a closed condition in which the flow is inhibited. An actuator is mechanically coupled to the valve. A normally inaccessible closure system is provided which is at least partially disposed below ground level and is connected to the actuator for selectively controlling the condition of the actuator to permit or inhibit the flow of oil or gas through the well. In one embodiment, a fail-safe system is described which includes hydraulic accumulators in the bunker and a control circuit for monitoring and sensing alarm or abnormal conditions for automatically applying energy stored in the accumulators to the actuator to automatically close the flow of oil/gas in the well.

Abstract: Multiple gas lift valves interposed in a well tubing string are each configured to have gas flow ports adapted to emit a predetermined acoustic signal for transmission through the well to a microphone or similar acoustic signal receiver whereby a determination may be made of which gas lift valves are open or operating properly. One or more of the gas lift valves may also include fluid pressure, temperature and viscosity sensors as well as a valve opening sensor and/or valve pressure setting control and an associated signal controller/generator arrangement for generating signals for transmission to the surface. The signal generators may be of the acoustic or so-called stress wave type.

Abstract: A system for catching, containing and collecting fluids spilled from or adjacent to a wellhead and for recovering the fluids by automatically transporting the spilled fluids to the wellhead production flowline includes a deflector for attachment to the wellhead for directing downwardly fluids spilled or accidentally released from the wellhead, a containment area for catching and containing the spilled fluids, a container connected in fluid communication with the containment area for receiving spilled fluids drained from the containment area, and a pump connected in fluid communication between the container and the production flowline for-automatically transporting fluids from the container to the production flowline.

Abstract: The invention provides for metering the pumping rate of BFS/mud mixtures pumped to the cementing head on a rig for sealing off the formation from the casing. Since BFS/mud mixtures require an activation agent, preferably sodium hydroxide is pumped into the flowline to the cementing head. Feedback from the BFS/mud slurry flowrate is fed to the activator injector pump drive system to regulate the addition rate of the activating agent in response to varying conditions, such as mud flowrate. The injection rate target can also be adjusted to compensate for any changes in downhole temperature. The risk of fouling surface equipment and the casing internal diameter is minimized because the activation agent is added very close in time to when the BFS/mud mixture enters the cementing head.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of dropping a pumpdown plug or ball is revealed. The assembly can be integrally formed with a plug-dropping head or can be an auxiliary feature that is mounted to a plug-dropping head. The release mechanism is actuated by remote control, employing intrinsically safe circuitry. The circuitry, along with its self-contained power source, actuates a primary control member responsive to an input signal so as to allow component shifting for release of the pumpdown plug or ball. Multiple plug-dropping heads can be stacked, each responsive to a discrete release signal. Actuation to drop the pumpdown ball or plug is accomplished even while the components are rotating or are moving longitudinally. Using the apparatus and method of the present invention, personnel do not need to climb up in the derrick to actuate manual valves.

Abstract: An acid concentration is injected into a formation in a manner which slowly changes the salinity and pH of the rock matrix of the formation to significantly reduce the effects on clay particles or fines in the formation. The acid concentration comprises a plurality of fluids which are injected into the formation in a ramped or stepped sequence. More specifically, one or more of the fluids are ramped or changed while the total flow rate is maintained by varying the flow rate of a dilution fluid or fluids. The volumes of the fluids forming the acid concentration and the rate or rates at which the volume percents are ramped will vary depending on the matrix of the formation being treated.

Abstract: A method is provided for the stabilization and control of the two-phase flow of hot fluid containing water issuing from the top of an upwardly rising conduit or riser of a horizontal oil-production well. The fluid enters the bottom of the riser at a temperature higher than the saturation temperature of water at the conditions prevailing at the top of the riser. A first mass rate flow controller is coupled to a mass rate flow detector at the top of the well for controlling mass flow at a substantially constant rate over a short time interval. Signals indicative of the optimal flow rate for the process are input to a second controller. The second controller adjusts the mass flow rate setpoint of the first controller. The second controller has a time constant significantly longer than that of the first controller.

Abstract: System for remotely controlling the start-up of a closed-in well. A radio signal transmitted to the well actuates a main flow control valve to provisionally commence flow from the well into a conduit. During the provisional period, a comparator electronically analyzes the well's immediate operating pressure against a preferred operating parameter, and generates a signal representing the difference between the two. A generated signal further initiates such commands as will sustain well flow if the latter is within the preferred operating parameters, or after the brief provisional operating period, discontinues flow if necessary.

Abstract: A method for removing a viscous hydrocarbonaceous fluid or oil from a formation where carbon dioxide is utilized. Gaseous carbon dioxide is injected, by a pre-set time interval or a computer actuated valve means, into a well near a productive interval. Injection continues for a time sufficient for the carbon dioxide and oil to mix thereby decreasing the oil's viscosity and facilitating gas lift of an oil of reduced viscosity to the surface.

Abstract: A downhole shut-in tool includes in one aspect a pilot valve which when opened places a differential pressure across a piston which in turn operably engages a shut-in valve element to close the shut-in tool. An electronic timer assembly and electric drive motor are provided for controlling the action of the pilot valve. The drive motor is controlled by a load sensor which senses that the motor has stalled when an actuator engages a movement limiting abutment. In another aspect a pilot value is provided which can selectively communicate the pressure differential across the piston so as to repeatedly open and close the shut-in valve element. Efficient methods of drawdown and buildup testing using such an automated multiple operating shut-in tool are provided. Associated automated sampling tools are also disclosed.

Abstract: A pneumatic underground fluid recovery pump is disclosed that includes a power actuated inlet valve and a power source, independent of the static fluid pressure head in the well, for actuating the power actuated inlet valve between open and closed positions. Also disclosed is a pneumatic underground fluid recovery pump that includes a fluid level sensor for sensing fluid level in the pump reservoir above a first predetermined level and a controller for controlling the pressurization of the pump in response to the fluid level sensor sensing fluid level above the first predetermined level. Also disclosed is a pneumatic underground fluid recovery pump that includes a fluid level tracking device for sensing underground fluid level in the well and adjusting the level of the pump inlet valve a predetermined distance below the underground fluid level in the well.

Abstract: An operating well such as an oil well is provided with a safety valve in the tubing thereof. A control cartridge controls the safety valve under the command of control signals transmitted from the surface. The control cartridge includes a housing mounted in the tubing and a receiver for receiving signals transmitted from the surface. A power supply is provided in the housing and is connected to an electronic control system, which control system is also connected to the receiver. A hydraulically operated actuator controls the safety valve, and a source of hydraulic fluid is provided in the housing and connected with the hydraulically operated actuator for operating the actuator. The source of hydraulic fluid is also connected to the power supply for operation thereof.

Abstract: A method of evaluating a slurry mixing and placing process, such as a cementing process, for an oil or gas well comprises identifying and measuring specific subprocesses and parameters thereof, statistically summarizing the parameters and creating a database thereof, and analyzing the statistically summarized parameters to identify or compare against process capabilities to reduce variation, thereby improving specific job performance and the overall process.

Abstract: Methods of controlling a downhole tool in a well are disclosed wherein pressure change signals are introduced into a column of fluid standing in the well. The command signal includes at least one high level pressure change applied to the column of fluid. The high level pressure change includes a change from a first value to a second value, with the second value being at least about 1,000 psi above hydrostatic pressure of the column of fluid in the well, and with pressure being maintained at the second value for an interval of time corresponding to information stored in a control system of the downhole valve. A number of suitable command signal formats are disclosed, particularly including pressure drop signals.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating oil and gas wells having a tubing string extending into the earth's surface for the removal of fluids; from a hydrocarbon productive reservoir and a casing string surrounding the tubing string for protective purposes with a measured volume of treating fluid. The instant apparatus includes: a chemical treatment fluid storage tank in fluid communication with a mixing vessel, a chemical pump for transporting chemical treatment fluid from the storage tank to the mixing vessel, a remote actuating and timing mechanism and associated valves, a mixing vessel, and flow lines connecting the assembled apparatus to a well. When in use, produced well fluids may be diverted to the mixing vessel containing treatment fluid supplied by the pump thereby causing the contents of the vessel to be flushed into the casing/tubing annulus of the well for treatment purposes.

Abstract: In a preferred method, a spilled fluid, lighter than and immiscible with water, is removed from the subsurface by first penetrating through the fluid zone and at least partially through the groundwater zone to provide a bore in communication therewith. Then, at suitable intervals, an amount of fluid is extracted from the fluid zone through the bore at a selected rate. In addition, at suitable intervals, an amount of water from the groundwater zone is extracted through the bore at a selected rate. Meanwhile, a vacuum is applied to one or more selected portions of the subsurface to draw air therethrough, to volatilize volatilizable components of the fluid, and to induce movement of the volatile (vapor) and liquid and heavy components of the fluid into the bore for extraction.

Abstract: A method is disclosed which, in one aspect, includes providing power to a system for controlling a wellhead from a self-contained stand-alone power source, controlling the delivery of power to the system with a control unit (in one aspect a microprocessor control unit), using various valves to control flow of fluids from within the well and from the well in one or more flowlines, and monitoring various parameters both in the flowlines and in and around the well and the wellhead, including but not limited to fluid pressures and emergency conditions, and shutting-in the well in response to certain signals generated by the system based on the monitoring.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for disposing of water at gas wells. Water from the water holding tank is collected periodically in a heating vessel. Hot fluid from an auxiliary engine system, such as the oil pump or the water pump for the compressor engine, is pumped through a heat conductive coil around the heating vessel to heat the well water in the heating vessel. The heated well water then is injected into the hot exhaust line from the compressor either between the compressor and the muffler or alternatively is injected directly into the muffler. The heating vessel is pressurized with gas from the well to assist in the evacuation of the heated water from the heating vessel and the injection of the well water into the hot exhaust. A system of valves controls the delivery of water to the heating vessel, ensures that the heating vessel will not be over pressurized and deactivates the apparatus when the gas compressor is not running.

Abstract: A downhole shut-in tool includes in one aspect a pilot valve which when opened places a differential pressure across a piston which in turn operably engages a shut-in valve element to close the shut-in tool. An electronic timer assembly and electric drive motor are provided for controlling the action of the pilot valve. The drive motor is controlled by a load sensor which senses that the motor has stalled when an actuator engages a movement limiting abutment. In another aspect a pilot valve is provided which can selectively communicate the pressure differential across the piston so as to repeatedly open and close the shut-in valve element. Efficient methods of drawdown and buildup testing using such an automated multiple operating shut-in tool are provided. Associated automated sampling tools are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for recovering subterranean fluids from a site contaminated by hazardous waste is disclosed. The system for recovering the fluids in a wellbore comprises pump unit means for pumping the subterranean fluid from the wellbore, liquid level sensing means for sensing the liquid level within the wellbore, and activation means for activating the pumping unit means in response to the fluid level sensing means. The system may also include microprocessor means for storing and interpreting the data from the sensing means.

Abstract: A method for controlling a rod pumped well to limit the amount of time the pumping system is subject to fluid pound. The method monitors various pumping system parameters and shuts the pumping system down just before pump-off occurs.

Abstract: A downhole shut-in tool includes in one aspect a pilot valve which when opened places a differential pressure across a piston which in turn operably engages a shut-in valve element to close the shut-in tool. An electronic timer assembly and electric drive motor are provided for controlling the action of the pilot valve. The drive motor is controlled by a load sensor which senses that the motor has stalled when an actuator engages a movement limiting abutment. In another aspect a pilot valve is provided which can selectively communicate the pressure differential across the piston so as to repeatedly open and close the shut-in valve element. Efficient methods of drawdown and buildup testing using such an automated multiple operating shut-in tool are provided. Associated automated sampling tools are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and systems for recovering groundwater, gases and vapors from subsurface locations in a single, integrated operation by applying a vacuum to groundwater recovery wells are disclosed. Selective recovery of specific contaminants from zones of interest containing high levels of those contaminants is achieved by manipulating the local water table level. Groundwater recovery systems may also utilize eductor systems having venturi nozzles that create a vacuum networked. A plurality of such recovery wells operated using eductor systems may be operated by a single pump at or above grade level. In this fashion, a network of recovery wells may be operated using a single pump and control system. The recovery methods and systems of the present invention are preferably utilized in association with known contaminant removal systems to provide complete removal of contaminants and improved remediation efficiencies.

Abstract: A downhole tool comprises an apparatus including an electrical member and a cooling system to maintain the electrical member within a rated temperature operating range. The cooling system includes a container holding a refrigerant. The cooling system also includes heat transfer elements for conducting refrigerant from the container in proximity to the electrical member so that a temperature adjacent the electrical member is less than ambient well bore temperature and preferably less than the maximum of the rated temperature operating range. The cooling system further includes a device for moving refrigerant from the container and through the heat transfer elements in response to pressure in the well bore. In a preferred embodiment, the refrigerant is recycled through the heat transfer circuit back to the container.

Abstract: An interface tool freely slidable within a production pipe or conduit of an oil or gas well capable of creating a positive seal in order to lift liquids and particulates above the device to the surface where they are collected. An internal bypass valve permits the free flow of the particulates and liquids through an internal chamber of the tool during its return descent toward the producing formation. To efficiently utilize the pressure forces of gases trapped below the tool for lifting liquids to the surface when the bypass valve is closed, an elastomeric and expansible cylindrical sleeve is provided encircling a central region of the tool. Both the bypass valve and the elastomeric sleeve are operated by a slidable mechanical push rod received longitudinally within the tool body. The rod is actuated at extreme ends of the production pipe or conduit and detents provide for positive positioning of the rod during ascent and descent of the tool during well operation.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an improved diaphragm type mud saver valve, commonly referred to as a Kelley valve, which closes automatically to prevent loss and spilling of drilling mud. The improved valve can withstand very high drilling and pump pulsation pressures, for example, the pressures required for drilling wells over 20,000 feet in depth and mud pressures can exceed 15,000 p.s.i. The disclosure prevents the formation of gas pockets by providing gas escape openings and a clearance space between the support and backup element to prevent the extrusion of the diaphragm material through the small openings in a backup sleeve thus extending the life of the diaphragm and allowing proper diaphragm seating.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for Varying the speed of operations of an oil well pumping unit powered by a motor wherein variations in oil viscosity may be efficiently accommodated. An oil well pumping unit which includes a submersible pump actuated by means of a reciprocating string of sucker rods is monitored for both rod position and load present on the sucker rods. The oil well pumping unit is driven by an electric or gas motor through a controllable coupling and the speed of the oil well pumping unit is then varied, utilizing the controllable coupling, in response to variations in sucker rod load. As the lowering of the sucker rod is impeded by high viscosity oil, the load on the sucker rod decreases. This decrease in sucker rod load is utilized to decrease the speed of the oil well pumping unit by means of the controllable coupling to ensure that bridle separation does not occur.

Abstract: A downhole shut-in tool includes in one aspect a pilot valve which when opened places a differential pressure across a piston which in turn operably engages a shut-in valve element to close the shut-in tool. An electronic timer assembly and electric drive motor are provided for controlling the action of the pilot valve. The drive motor is controlled by a load sensor which senses that the motor has stalled when an actuator engages a movement limiting abutment. In another aspect a pilot valve is provided which can selectively communicate the pressure differential across the piston so as to repeatedly open and close the shut-in valve element. Efficient methods of drawdown and buildup testing using such an automated multiple operating shut-in tool are provided. Associated automated sampling tools are also disclosed.