With Below And Above Ground Modification Patents (Class 166/67)
  • Patent number: 8087904
    Abstract: A hybrid hydraulic-electric pumping unit (12) with downstroke energy recovery is disclosed which is operated in a conventional flow mode to supply hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic ram (26), and then is operated in a reverse flow mode to receive the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic ram (26) and turn an electric motor (16) to generate electric power. A single hydraulic hose (48) connects the pump (18) to the hydraulic ram (26), and is used for both passing the hydraulic fluid from the pump (18) to the hydraulic ram (26) and from the ram (26) to the pump (18). The potential energy of the weight of sucker rods (10) lifted in operating the pumping unit (12) is recovered by operating the pump (18) and motor (16) with return of the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic ram (26) through the pump (18), which turns the motor (16) to generate electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Global Oilfield Services LLC
    Inventor: Larry D. Best
  • Patent number: 8082981
    Abstract: An multiple point adjustable depth air sparging well system having a multiple air injection points for injecting compressed air into saturated or groundwater regions of the soil's subsurface to remove volatile contaminants from the soil's subsurface. At plurality of flow-through air sparge packer which are slidably mounted flow-through packers within the well casing of the air sparging well system allows a user to adjust the depths of the air injection points. Each packer has attached thereto a pressure regulator which provides compressed air to one of the multiple air injection points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Andrew Scott Drucker
  • Publication number: 20110290483
    Abstract: A plume of combined gases are infused into hydrocarbon-bearing formations, “inert” as the major gas and “reactive” as the minor gas, where the minor gas reacts with hydrocarbons to fully saturate hydrocarbons with supercritical fluid, which migrate hydrocarbons out of formations, even at great distances from the regulated fuel cell source. Coal, tar sands, petroleum-contaminated soil, and/or oil wells that have lost gas pressure can also be desorbed by this in-situ method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: David A. ZORNES
  • Publication number: 20110272148
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing a multi-zone reservoir while reservoir fluids are flowing from within the wellbore. The method and apparatus enables isolation and testing of individual zones without the need to pull production tubing. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It may not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John R. Lovell, Warren Zemlak, Marc Allcorn, Luis F. Peixoto, Steven Harrison, Andrew Prestridge, Gokturk Tunc, Frank Espinosa
  • Publication number: 20110247798
    Abstract: A system, in certain embodiments, includes a subsurface safety valve (SSV) biased toward a closed position, and configured to open by application of hydraulic pressure. The system also includes a tubing hanger running tool (THRT), including a conduit in fluid communication with the SSV, and a pressure release valve fluidly coupled to the conduit. The pressure release valve is configured to maintain sufficient hydraulic pressure within the conduit to hold the SSV in an open position while the pressure release valve is in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: David June, Claudio Santilli
  • Publication number: 20110232894
    Abstract: An artificial oil lifting unit uses an endless olephilic absorbent belt, driven by a surface equipment and tensed by a down hole equipment placed in the well production casing. The said absorbent belt (1) is looped over a central pulley (2) from a driving and collecting module (C) and driven by a double toothed belt (4) looped over six pulleys from which five are free (6,7,8,9 and 10). One is a driving pulley (5) placed over an entry shaft (36), the double toothed belt (4) being looped also over the oil absorbent belt on the central pulley and tensed with two identical systems (I) with pulleys commanded from the exterior of the case (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Vasile Comsa
  • Patent number: 7931752
    Abstract: A method for cleaning a semiconductor equipment is provided. First, a first cleaning step is performed to the process chamber. The first cleaning step includes conducting a cleaning gas into the process chamber via a short processing gas injector for generating a plasma of the cleaning gas in the process chamber. Then, a cleaning step is performed to a long cleaning gas injector. The cleaning step performed to the long cleaning gas injector includes conducting the cleaning gas into the process chamber via the long processing gas injector. Then, a second cleaning step is performed to the process chamber. The second cleaning step includes conducting the plasma of the cleaning gas into the process chamber via the short processing gas injector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventors: Chong-Tat Lee, Jui-Lin Tang, Chee-Thim Loh, Kok-Poh Chong
  • Publication number: 20110042077
    Abstract: A formation tester tool can include a longitudinal probe drill collar having a surface, a formation probe assembly located within the probe drill collar, the formation probe assembly including a piston reciprocal between a retracted position and an extended position beyond the probe drill collar surface, the piston being slidingly retained within a chamber, a seal pad located at an end of the piston, the seal pad including an outer surface defining a partial cylindrical surface. The piston includes an outer surface having non-circular cross-sectional shape and the chamber includes an inner surface having a non-circular shape similar to the shape of the piston outer surface. The formation tester tool can include interchangeable draw down assemblies and a flow bore having a curving path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Kristopher V. Sherrill
  • Publication number: 20100243244
    Abstract: A location-and-rotation feedback tool that provides accurate feedback of the location and orientation of a well component during running operations in wells. The feedback tool device is adapted to be secured on a tool stem above a running tool and comprises a body, a circumferentially extending groove, and a hole in the groove that vents to the bore of a blowout preventer. The circumferential groove aligns with a fluid line port in the blowout preventer to provide location feedback via a fluid line pressure. The hole aligns with the fluid line port in the blowout preventer to provide rotation feedback via fluid line pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventors: David L. Ford, Johnny E. Jurena
  • Publication number: 20100236788
    Abstract: The invention disclosed provides a drive head assembly for a fluid conveyor system that propels a fluid entraining conveyor through a well bore to carry fluids to the surface. The invention is comprised of a pair of synchronized follower wheels connected to a set of counter rotating sheaves. A fluid entraining conveyor is wrapped in a “figure-8” conveyor path around the sheaves in a plurality of coaxial grooves and around a distal sheave located in the fluid in the well bore. The coaxial grooves incorporate a unique shape which in conjunction with the wrap pattern provide improved tractive qualities and thus reduce tension in the conveyor and increase the durability of the conveyor. The conveyor can run at increased speeds and with no tension on the downward portion of the conveyor resulting in higher efficiency and less down time due to breakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Jim Crafton
  • Publication number: 20100230090
    Abstract: A system which may be used to replace workover rigs and metallic pipes for the production of hydrocarbon from wellbores uses a non-metallic, substantially continuous, flexible tube comprising a flexible, non-metallic, e.g. resin-based, substantially continuous production tube that can be wellbore deployed and retrieved without the need of onsite rigs. The system's components can be placed inside existing pipes for work in old wells where removal of the existing tube is not economical. The tubes may also be spoolable, thereby increasing installation rates and flexibility. Connectors for the tube may be dimensioned and configured to allow for providing and/or sealing downhole tools to the production tube. In certain embodiments, an onsite power generator will provide a clean alternative to existing diesel burning generators and will typically use a furnace, boiler, steam engine and electrical power generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Paulo Tubel
  • Publication number: 20100186949
    Abstract: An assembly for delivery of treatment fluid at a target location downhole. The assembly is configured to avoid any substantial loss of treatment fluid in advance of reaching the target location in spite of low well pressure or a potentially excessive depth of the location. The assembly also allows for loading with treatment fluid from a downhole end thereof so as to avoid driving treatment fluid through the entirety of a tubular accommodating the assembly. The assembly may employ a spot valve to enhance filling with treatment fluid along with a backpressure valve coupled to the spot valve on-site so as to avoid premature loss of treatment fluid during a delivery application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Zheng Rong Xu, Jorge A. Lozada Pazzi, Kevin Odom
  • Publication number: 20090313772
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an additive composition for dissolving hydrocarbons. The composition includes a peroxygen compound and surfactant compounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Charles Bullick Talley
  • Publication number: 20090301717
    Abstract: A method and a device (2) for destruction of organic material in injection water for an injection well (4), in which a means (10) for introduction of water in the injection well (4), and at least one electrochemical cell (16) with associated operating means are used for in situ electrolytic generation from water of at least short-lived, free hydroxyl radicals. The distinctive characteristic of the invention is that it comprises the following steps: (A) to connect the at least one electrochemical cell (16) to the injection well (4); and (B) by means of said operating means, to conduct the injection water through said cell (16) for in situ generation of at least free hydroxyl radicals from the injection water, insofar as free hydroxyl radicals immediately destruct organic material that they engage in the injection water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Helge Lunde, David Pinchin
  • Patent number: 7617878
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for inserting a small diameter continuous hydraulic conduit or capillary tube down a well bore is presented. The methods and apparatus allow either the injection of chemicals to enhance production of oil and gas, or to provide a conduit for production up through the small diameter tubing in marginal wells, into a hanger below a well valve to permit its removal from below the valve if the valve should be required to be closed and its reinsertion without pulling the tubing from the well bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: BJ Services Company, U.S.A.
    Inventors: David Randolph Smith, Gary O. Harkins, Brent Shanley
  • Publication number: 20090260799
    Abstract: An multiple point adjustable depth air sparging well system having a multiple air injection points for injecting compressed air into saturated or groundwater regions of the soil's subsurface to remove volatile contaminants from the soil's subsurface. At plurality of flow-through air sparge packer which are slidably mounted flow-through packers within the well casing of the air sparging well system allows a user to adjust the depths of the air injection points. Each packer has attached thereto a pressure regulator which provides compressed air to one of the multiple air injection points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew Scott Drucker
  • Publication number: 20090205831
    Abstract: A method to release a control line for a safety valve removably disposed in a nipple (9) of a wellbore production tubing, comprises the steps of: —removing the safety valve from the nipple; —setting into the nipple a sealing tool (41) which sealingly connects the control line (10) and a mini tubing (42) running down into the production tubing; —increasing the pressure of a fluid into the mini tubing to cause fluid to flow into the control line through the sealing tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: WEATHERFORD FRANCE SAS
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Jacob
  • Publication number: 20090205821
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the management of injection and production of well fluids in a subterranean well is described to optimize the use of stimulation fluids to enhance their compatibility with subterranean reservoirs and the surface environment and thereby reducing the damage said fluids induce in subterranean reservoirs and upon flow back to the surface reduce their damage to the environment is described. More specifically, this method is directed to the subterranean treatment of injection fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: David R. Smith
  • Publication number: 20090194296
    Abstract: A cable assembly for use in a hydrocarbon well of extensive depth. The cable assembly may be effectively employed at well depths of over 30,000 feet. Indeed, embodiments of the assembly may be effectively employed at depths of over 50,000 feet while powering and directing downhole equipment at a downhole end thereof The assembly may be made up of a comparatively high break strength uphole cable portion coupled to a lighter downhole cable portion. This configuration helps to ensure the structural integrity of the assembly in light of its own load when disposed in a well to such extensive depths. Additionally, the assembly may be employed at such depths with an intervening connector sub having a signal amplification mechanism incorporated therein to alleviate concern over telemetry between the surface of the oilfield and the downhole equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Peter Gillan, Joseph Varkey, Jose Ramon Lozano-Gendreau, Vladimir Hernandez-Solis, Jan W. Smits, Hifzi Ardic
  • Publication number: 20090178809
    Abstract: A method of constructing a borehole drilled with a drilling apparatus (16), the method comprises: connecting a flexible tubular liner sleeve (22) around the outside of the drilling apparatus and connecting the sleeve around an upper opening of the borehole so as to pass into the borehole; progressively extending the sleeve into the borehole as drilling progresses while maintaining connection to the drilling apparatus and borehole opening; at a predetermined point in the drilling, expanding the sleeve so as to contact the borehole wall; and setting the sleeve so as to be fixed to the borehole wall after expansion. Apparatus for use in such a method comprises: a flexible, expandable sleeve (22); a first connector for connecting the sleeve around the outside of a drilling assembly; and a second connector for connecting the sleeve around the opening of the borehole; wherein the sleeve is arranged to extend through the borehole between the connectors as drilling progresses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Benjamin Jeffryes, Louise Bailey, Iain Cooper, Geoffrey Maitland, Dominique Guillot
  • Publication number: 20090145608
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus, system and method for deliquifying a well. A body having gas supply passages is lowered into a well bore on the end of a string of supply tubing. A string of return tubing is lowered through the supply tubing and is inserted into a return passage in the body. A jet nozzle receives gas from the gas supply passages and elevates a fluid:gas mixture to the surface through the return tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: BJC CONSULTING LTD.
    Inventor: Albert CROTEAU
  • Publication number: 20090090503
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a hydraulic actuated pump system which lifts production fluids and re-circulating hydraulic fluid from a petroleum well. Additives may be added to the hydraulic fluid to apply direct chemical treatment to the production formation. A sonic stimulator may be included to stimulate and produce the same liquids from the horizontal section of the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: CANASONICS INC.
    Inventor: Emil William Groves
  • Publication number: 20090032239
    Abstract: A marginal oil extraction system having an upper extraction unit, an extraction container, and a lower valve assembly. The marginal oil extraction system uses at least some of these components to cheaply extract oil from a stripper oil well. In some cases the system is capable of separating the oil from the water in the well with a solid barrier and can cheaply remove the oil from above the solid barrier. The system is cheap to install, easy to maintain and provides efficient access to what would otherwise be an inaccessible asset.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Michael E. Grant
  • Publication number: 20090025935
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Johan Jacobus Van Dorp, Michael Zvi Golombok, Michiel Jan Groeneveld, Douglas Charlton McCammon, Thomas Mikus, Alexander Michiel Mollinger, Brendan Dermot Murray, Eric Johannes Puik, Raul Valdez, Willem Van Vark, Dean Chien Wang
  • Publication number: 20090014167
    Abstract: An adjustable depth air sparging well system having a fixed depth or secondary air injection point and an adjustable depth or primary air injection point for injecting compressed air into saturated or groundwater regions of the soil's subsurface to remove volatile contaminants from the soil's subsurface. At least one flow-through air sparge packer which is slidably mounted within the well casing of the air sparging well system allows a user to adjust the depth at which the adjustable depth air injection point is set. The flow through air sparge packer is available in one, two and one half and five foot lengths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew S. Drucker
  • Publication number: 20080110635
    Abstract: To assemble a well tool, an inventory of plural different types of functional modules is maintained at an assembly location. An order for a well tool having a specified first application is received. In response to the order, a first combination of the plural types of functional modules from the inventory is assembled to form the well tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ives Loretz, Alok Dwivedi, Pierre Hosatte
  • Publication number: 20080073072
    Abstract: An adjustable depth air sparging well system having a fixed depth air injection point and an adjustable depth air injection point for injecting compressed air into saturated or groundwater regions of the soil's subsurface to remove volatile contaminants from the soil's subsurface. A flow-through air sparge packer which is slidably mounted within the well casing of the air sparging well system allows a user to adjust the depth at which the adjustable depth air injection point is set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew S. Drucker
  • Publication number: 20070221383
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing the production of a hydrocarbon well by removal of accumulated formation fluid from the bottom of the well. The apparatus includes a body positionable down hole and a sealing assembly, with a converging-diverging nozzle installed axially within a through bore extending through the body at a position below the sealing assembly. A fluid lift passage extends from the accumulated formation fluid through the body and into the throat of the nozzle. The entrance into the throat of the nozzle includes inwardly tapered shoulder portion position below the opening of the fluid lift passage into the throat. The apparatus creates a low-pressure zone within and lifts the accumulated formation fluid into the throat where it is atomized by a high velocity flowing production gas. The atomized fluid is carried to the surface of the well by the production gas where it is then separated from the gas. The method includes the installation of an apparatus within the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventors: Kelly Mason, Glenn Scheinder
  • Patent number: 7273096
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for holding and releasing an object, such device having a body with a cavity in which the object is accommodatable, an elastic retaining member for retaining the object in the cavity, and, a pushing member for pushing the object out of the body past the retaining member. The pushing member has a first stimuli responsive gel, which has a volume that varies in response to variation of a selected physical stimulating parameter and a controller capable of activating the pushing member by stimulating the first gel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Johannis Josephus Den Boer, John Foreman Stewart
  • Patent number: 7237614
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a coupling device for converting a below-ground potable water well installation to an above-ground installation, the device comprising a housing having a first opening which is dimensioned to receive an upper end of a below-ground well casing and a second opening which is dimensioned to receive a lower end of a well casing extension; gasket means located adjacent the first and second openings for sealing the respective connections between the housing, the below-ground well casing and the well casing extension, the gasket means further providing a first seating surface to seat the upper end of the well casing and a second seating surface to seat the lower end of the well casing extension; and a central region including a passage to receive a well line adaptor therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Stewart Hitchon
  • Patent number: 7077208
    Abstract: An apparatus having various conduits moves liquid by passing gas up through it. A collector conduit transports the liquid to the bottom of the unit. A gas-lift conduit mixes the liquid and gas at the bottom and transports the mixture upwards, owing to the rising action of the bubbles and the resulting decreased density of the gas/liquid mixture. At the top of the gas-lift conduit, some of the gas may escape from the liquid and out of the apparatus. The lifted liquid may exit the apparatus at an elevation higher than the entry point of the liquid or may be directed down through a down and out conduit. A one way valve or equivalent configuration may be used to limit flow to one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: R3 Pump Technologies
    Inventors: Michael J. Harrington, Jeffery Dean Rabe, David Alan Nickel
  • Patent number: 7007759
    Abstract: A gas/liquid pump moves liquid by passing gas up through it. Pumping is accomplished by the liquid's moving through three conduits. The first, a collector conduit, transports the liquid to the bottom of the unit. The second, a gas-lift conduit, mixes the liquid and gas at the bottom and transports the mixture upwards, owing to the rising action of the bubbles and the resulting decreased density of the gas/liquid mixture. At the top of the gas-lift conduit, some of the gas escapes from the liquid and out of the unit. The lifted liquid then returns to near its original density and exits the unit through the down and out conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: R3 Pump Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. Harrington, Jeffery Dean Rabe, David Alan Nickel
  • Patent number: 6938691
    Abstract: A portable groundwater sampling system utilizing an air pump in combination with a sampling tank, valves, and a pressure gauge to sample a liquid from a below ground surface monitoring well. The system includes a portable power supply for energizing the air pump and is mounted on wheels for mobility. The system also may include a flat work surface and storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Royce J. Face
  • Patent number: 6868911
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for producing a liquid phase hydrocarbon fluid from a producing formation are provided. One method includes moving an absorbing material through a well disposed in the formation. The absorbing material absorbs the hydrocarbon fluid in the well without absorbing a substantial amount of water in the well. The method includes removing the hydrocarbon fluid from the absorbing material. One apparatus includes an absorbing material configured to absorb the hydrocarbon fluid without absorbing a substantial amount of water. The apparatus also includes a drive assembly configured to move the absorbing material through a well disposed in the formation. In addition, the apparatus includes a collection assembly configured to remove the hydrocarbon fluid from the absorbing material. A method and an apparatus for selectively producing a liquid phase fluid from a formation are also provided. In such embodiments, the absorbing material described above may be hydrophobic or hydrophilic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Jacobson Oil Enterprises
    Inventors: Henry P. Jacobson, Mark G. Rockley
  • Patent number: 6817420
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a coupling device for converting a below-ground potable water well installation to an above-ground installation, the device comprising a housing having a first opening which is dimensioned to receive an upper end of a below-ground well casing and a second opening which is dimensioned to receive a lower end of a well casing extension; gasket means located adjacent the first and second openings for sealing the respective connections between the housing, the below-ground well casing and the well casing extension, the gasket means further providing a first seating surface to seat the upper end of the well casing and a second seating surface to seat the lower end of the well casing extension; and a central region including a passage to receive a well line adaptor there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Stewart Hitchon
  • Publication number: 20040194952
    Abstract: It is the object of this invention to enable the oil extraction from low yield costly wells without using the usual piping installations under conditions that make it possible to obtain a continuous oil flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Hector Maiolo
  • Publication number: 20040074638
    Abstract: A system for recovering gas trapped within the earth includes a casing (24) sized and configured to be positioned within a borehole in the earth, the casing (24) formed of a material that is transmissive to electromagnetic energy and gas within the earth; an antenna (40) sized and configured to be positioned within the casing (24). The antenna (40) has a distal end and a proximal end and including a radiating element at the distal end of the antenna (40) which, in operation, transmits electromagnetic energy toward a desired area of the earth, and an interior channel for allowing gas to be conveyed from the distal end to the proximal end of the antenna (40).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond S. Kasevich
  • Publication number: 20040069494
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and arrangements for utilising the energy of water that flows out from a high-pressure reservoir. Water and hydrocarbons are separated in a down-hole separator (3) and are brought separately to the seabed. In a first aspect the energy of the water is utilised to inject the water into an underground formation (28) with a lower pressure. In a second aspect the energy is utilised to drive a turbine which in turn is driving a pump (32) for pressurising hydrocarbons. As a part of the invention a method and an arrangement to control the separator (3) by control valves (7, 8) on the well head (6) for each phase is provided. In a further aspect a higher water pressure is provided by gas lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Geir Inge Olsen, Gunder Homstvedt
  • Patent number: 6659176
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for remediation of non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPL), including the use of a prior art hydrophobic adsorption system including a continuous loop of adsorptive material, with a weighted pulley on the free end of the loop to allow for the loop to be placed within a well being deeper than it is wide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Raj Mahadevaiah
  • Publication number: 20030079874
    Abstract: A data resource specific to a pipe coupling centrally positioned within the coupling, intermediate the coupling ends. Multiple couplings are employed to connect together a string of well pipe. The data resource is adapted to be deployed at the coupling center in the space formed between the abutting ends of pipe made up into the coupling. The data resource provides information regarding the physical characteristics and locations of the coupling, the attached string pipe or tile environment within which the coupling is disposed. The data resource may be a read-only component or it may be a readable and writeable component. The resource communicates with an instrument movable through the pipe and coupling. The data resource may be removably positioned at the center of the coupling or it may be permanently cemented in place. The data resource may take on the form of an annular ring with a crushable structure and suitable recesses for holding a data resource module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory K. Otten, Martin McIville Morrish
  • Publication number: 20030066647
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for removing contaminates, in particular, volatile organic contaminates from groundwater by providing a well that combines air stripping and air sparging apparatus within a single well to provide in-ground treatment of contaminated groundwater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Mohamed Abouodah
  • Publication number: 20030051874
    Abstract: One configuration of a separation system for separating hydrocarbons from contaminants downhole includes a tubular membrane having a fluid inlet end and a fluid outlet end. Between the fluid inlet end and the fluid outlet end of the membrane tube the membrane material selectively permeates contaminants, such as carbon dioxide, through the membrane while preventing the hydrocarbon from passing through the membrane achieving the downhole separation. A driving force of the membrane is increased by passing a sweep gas past the output side of the membrane during membrane separation to remove or dilute the contaminant at the output side of the membrane. The sweep gas improves the driving force of the membrane by increasing a partial pressure difference across the membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Curtis L. Munson, Michael Dubrovsky, Stephen J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20030010493
    Abstract: A power transmission and data communications system for use in a gas or oil well borehole is disclosed. The borehole includes a casing and a piping structure therein and at least one downhole equipment module located therein. The system provides for the power signal that is used to provide power transfer to be modulated with data and control signals that are to be transmitted to the downhole equipment located in the downhole equipment modules. In particular, the system provides for the power/data signal to be electrically coupled to the case and piping structure for transmission downhole. The downhole equipment includes a power supply that is operative to recover the power signal portion of the power/data signal and to provide power to the other downhole equipment. A downhole receiver is operative to recover the data portion of the power/data signal and to demodulate the data provided thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Lawrence W. Hill, F. Williams Sarles
  • Publication number: 20020053426
    Abstract: A downhole injector 10, 26, 38 and 54 is provided at the lower end of the production tubing string TS for passing liquids from a downhole formation into the tubing string while preventing gases from passing through the injector. The injector may include an improved screen 36 for preventing formation sand from entering the injector. The system may include a packer 44 in the annulus A above the injector. In one application, a vent tube 46 extends upward from the packer into the annulus for maintaining a desired liquid level in the annulus above the packer. A plurality of through ports 40 establish fluid communication in the annulus above the packer and the production tubing string so that a downhole pump P may efficiently pump downhole fluids to the surface. The injector of the present invention may be used with one or more lift valves LV for raising slugs of liquid upward to the surface through the production tubing string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventors: Terry E. Kelley, Robert E. Snyder
  • Publication number: 20020007953
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for removing water from a gas well to permit efficient production of gas while protecting formation from introduced pressures. The apparatus comprises a check valve that seals the casing from production zone when hydrostatic pressure of water from production accumulates in casing above production perforations and checkvalue exceeds formation pressure. When the casing is sealed, a compressor pressurizes gas into the casing but not an exhaust conduit, the top of the casing being sealed around the exhaust conduit, permitting communication between the conduit and a suitable destination, such as via liquid separators on into sale pipeline. Accumulated water is caused to flow into the bottom of the exhaust conduit and out at surface to collection. When pressure within the sealed casing to the top end of exhaust conduit is equalized, the checkvalve opens and regular production can resume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Alvin C. Liknes
  • Patent number: 6338388
    Abstract: A rotating tag bar is positioned below a progressive cavity pump stator for supporting at least a portion of a rod string a rotor. A tubular housing is secured to the stator and is fitted with a rotatable platform. The platform blocks downward stretch of the rotor and then rotatably support the rotor on a thrust bearing. Thereby, rotor-imposed loads on the platform translate into tensile loads directed into the stator, which is suspended from tubing string, lessening the load on the rod string and thereby both reducing the need for extreme accuracy in rotor positioning and reducing rod string and tubing wear. Optionally, a no-turn tool transmits load from the stator into the casing. In operation, the rotor is landed to contact the platform. The rotor is then lifted a distance less than the anticipated stretch so that when in operation, the rotor sets down on the platform and transfers at least a portion of the rod string load into stator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: Integrated Production Services Ltd.
    Inventor: Steven T. Winkler
  • Publication number: 20010037884
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for downhole tools enables convenient selection and actuation of a well tool assembly from among multiple well tool assemblies installed in a well. Each well tool assembly includes a control module having a selecting device and a fluid metering device. A predetermined range of pressure levels on one of multiple hydraulic lines causes the well tool assembly to be selected for actuation, a differential between pressure on that hydraulic line and pressure on another hydraulic line determines a manner of actuating the selected well tool assembly, and pressure fluctuations on one of the hydraulic lines causes fluid to be transferred from another hydraulic line to an actuator of the well tool assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Inventors: Roger L. Schultz, Paul D. Ringgenberg, Jimmie R. Williamson
  • Patent number: 6161621
    Abstract: An improved scrubber that uses a stream of air to blast the oil off the oil-laden conveyer chains of oil-only recovery apparatus is disclosed. The improved scrubber eliminates the need for conventional scouring components that physically contact the conveyer chain. The scrubber includes a blower, a series of air ducts, and an elongated nozzle. The air flow generated by the blower is communicated through the air ducts and directed onto a length of the oil-laden conveyer chain within the reservoir chamber of the recovery apparatus by the nozzle to blast the crude oil off the conveyer chain. The scrubber also includes a collection baffle positioned directly behind the length of the conveyer chain, which provides a surface area upon which the liquid oil collects and upon which the gaseous oil particulate may agglomerate and condense, before collecting at the bottom of the reservoir chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventors: LeGrand A. Daly, Wayne A. Blad
  • Patent number: 6158515
    Abstract: Fluid is lifted from a well with a continuous loop of fibrous material, such as rope. The rope loop is formed around a drive sheave on the surface with a return sheave down inside of the well. The drive sheave has ridges along the side surfaces of a groove. The rope lays in the groove in contact with the ridges. A motor rotates the drive sheave so as to lift the oily rope from the well. Guides and wipers are provided to direct the rope into the drive sheave and to the wipers. The wipers are slotted cards that scrape a quantity of oil from the outside surface of the rope. The oil falls down into a bottom of a housing for collection purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Lift Systems LLC
    Inventors: Richard H. Greer, Herbert W. Markwardt, Stephen B. Markwardt, Walter R. Shaw, John R. Watson
  • Patent number: 6113357
    Abstract: A hydraulic turbine mounted in-line between a gas production facility and the inlet of the sales lines for boosting pressure sufficiently to insert natural gas from the production facility into the sales line when the sale line pressure is at a high level. The turbine includes a compact turbine pump having several stages of compression with each compression stage including a 15-horse power motor that drives a hydraulic pump. A variable speed control is attached to the motor to allow the user to control the speed of the pump. Each pump stage has its own hydraulic motor that drives a turbine blade inside an enclosure. Pressure at each stage is controlled by means of an adjustable vane that has a stationary plate with a succession of fixed openings. The stationary plate is in face to face contact with a moving plate of similar design. The moving plate rotates at the center and may be adjusted by means of an elongated bolt assembly which adjusts the moving plate clockwise or counterclockwise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Rocky Dobbs