Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080230219 | Resistive heater for in situ formation heating - Improved methods for heating a subsurface formation using an electrical resistance heater are provided. Preferably, the subsurface formation is an organic-rich rock formation, including, for example, an oil shale formation. One embodiment of the method includes providing an electrically conductive first member in a wellbore located in a subsurface formation, and also providing an electrically conductive second member in the wellbore. The method also includes providing an electrically conductive granular material in the wellbore. The granular material is positioned so as to provide an electrical connection between the first member and the second member. An electrical current is established across the first member, the granular material and the second member so as to generate resistive heat within the granular material. The surrounding subsurface formation is thereby conductively heated so as to cause formation hydrocarbons in the formation to be heated, and in some cases, pyrolyzed to form hydrocarbon fluids. | 09-25-2008 |
20090050318 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IN-SITU RADIOFREQUENCY ASSISTED GRAVITY DRAINAGE OF OIL (RAGD) - The present invention relates generally to a radiofrequency reactor for use in thermally recovering oil and related materials. The radiofrequency reactor includes a radiofrequency antenna configured to be positioned within a well, where the well is provided within an area in which crude oil exists in the ground. The radiofrequency antenna includes a cylindrically-shaped radiating element for radiating radiofrequency energy into the area in which crude oil exists. The cylindrically-shaped radiating element is configured to allow passage of fluids there through. The radiofrequency reactor also includes a radiofrequency generator electrically coupled to the radiofrequency antenna. The radiofrequency reactor is operable to control the radiofrequency energy generated. | 02-26-2009 |
20090114384 | METHOD FOR EXTRACTION OF HYDROCARBON FUELS OR CONTAMINANTS USING ELECTRICAL ENERGY AND CRITICAL FLUIDS - The extraction of hydrocarbon fuel products such as kerogen oil and gas from a body of fixed fossil fuels such as oil shale is accomplished by applying a combination of electrical energy and critical fluids with reactants and/or catalysts down a borehole to initiate a reaction of reactants in the critical fluids with kerogen in the oil shale thereby raising the temperatures to cause kerogen oil and gas products to be extracted as a vapor, liquid or dissolved in the critical fluids. The hydrocarbon fuel products of kerogen oil or shale oil and hydrocarbon gas are removed to the ground surface by a product return line. An RF generator provides electromagnetic energy, and the critical fluids include a combination of carbon dioxide (CO | 05-07-2009 |
20090200016 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO FACILITATE FORMATION SAMPLING - A downhole tool for extracting a sample from a subsurface formation includes an emitter of electromagnetic energy configured to heat water in the subsurface formation. A method for extracting a sample from a subsurface formation involves conveying a downhole tool in a wellbore drilled through the subsurface formation, the downhole tool having an emitter of electromagnetic energy configured to heat water in the subsurface formation, and actuating the emitter to expose a portion of the formation to electromagnetic energy. | 08-13-2009 |
20090211751 | FIELD-RESPONSIVE FLUIDS - A field-responsive fluid which enters a semi-solid state in the presence of an energy field is improved by use of a plurality of energy field responsive particles which form chains in response to the energy field. The particles can be (a) composite particles in which at least one field-responsive member having a first density is attached to at least one member having a second density that is lower than the first density, (b) shaped particles in which at least one field-responsive member has one or more inclusions, and (c) combinations thereof. The particles improve the field-responsive fluid by reducing density without eliminating field-responsive properties which afford utility. Further, a multi-phase base fluid including a mixture of two or more substances, at least two of which are immiscible, may be used. The multi-phase base fluid improves the field-responsive fluid because surface tension between the boundaries of the immiscible substances in conjunction with chains formed by field-responsive particles tends to stop or retard creep flow, resulting an improved dynamic or static seal. | 08-27-2009 |
20090242196 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTION OF HYDROCARBONS BY IN-SITU RADIO FREQUENCY HEATING OF CARBON BEARING GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS - A method of producing liquid hydrocarbons from a hydrocarbon-bearing rock in situ in a geological formation begins with exploring the formation by drilling a plurality of boreholes into the formation and taking core samples of the hydrocarbon-bearing rock and at least one overburden layer. Electrical parameters of the hydrocarbon-bearing rock and the overburden layer are determined, as well as a roughness of a boundary between the hydrocarbon-bearing rock and the at least one overburden layer. These electrical parameters are used to construct a computer model of a portion of the hydrocarbon-bearing rock and at least one overburden layer, the computer model based upon modeling the formation as a rough-walled waveguide. This computer model is used to simulate propagation of radio frequency energy within the hydrocarbon-bearing rock, including simulation of radio frequency wave confinement within the hydrocarbon-bearing rock, at several frequencies and temperatures. A frequency for retorting is selected based upon simulation results. Radio frequency couplers are installed into at least one borehole in the hydrocarbon-bearing rock and driven with radio frequency energy to heat the hydrocarbon-bearing rock. As the rock heats, it releases carbon compounds and these are collected. | 10-01-2009 |
20090272526 | ELECTRICAL CURRENT FLOW BETWEEN TUNNELS FOR USE IN HEATING SUBSURFACE HYDROCARBON CONTAINING FORMATIONS - A system for treating a subsurface hydrocarbon containing formation includes one or more shafts. A first substantially horizontal or inclined tunnel extends from one or more of the shafts. A second substantially horizontal or inclined tunnel extends from one or more of the shafts. Two or more heat source wellbores extend from the first tunnel to the second tunnel. The heat source wellbores are configured to allow electrical current to flow between the heat source wellbores. | 11-05-2009 |
20090283257 | RADIO AND MICROWAVE TREATMENT OF OIL WELLS - A method including exposing a substance to a first type of electromagnetic waves generated by a first device. The frequency of the first type of electromagnetic waves is in the radio frequency range and the device consumes no more than about 1,000 Watts of power. The exposure takes place for a period of time and at a frequency sufficient to detectably alter at least one physical property of the substance as it existed prior to the exposure. | 11-19-2009 |
20090294121 | PULSE FRACTURING DEVICE AND METHOD - A method of inducing fracture in at least a portion of a geologic structure includes inducing acoustic waves into a fluid medium present in a borehole extending at least partially into the structure. Embodiments may include preheating or pressurizing the fluid medium prior to inducing the acoustic wave therein. A device for fracturing at least a portion of a geologic structure includes electrodes for producing a spark to generate ordinary acoustic waves in the fluid medium. Embodiments may include structures for preheating or pressurizing the fluid medium prior to inducing the acoustic wave therein. | 12-03-2009 |
20090314488 | Electrically and/or Magnetically Active Coated Fibres for Wellbore Operations - A composition for wellbore consolidation, comprising fibres having a core formed from a material that is electrically and/or magnetically susceptible, and a polymeric coating, characterised in that when the composition is placed in a wellbore in a zone to be consolidated and an electric current or magnetic field is applied, the fibres bond together by melting or setting of the polymeric coating. | 12-24-2009 |
20100065265 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IN-SITU RADIOFREQUENCY ASSISTED GRAVITY DRAINAGE OF OIL (RAGD) - The present invention relates generally to a radiofrequency reactor for use in thermally recovering oil and related materials. The radiofrequency reactor includes a radiofrequency antenna configured to be positioned within a well, where the well is provided within an area in which crude oil exists in the ground. The radiofrequency antenna includes a cylindrically-shaped radiating element for radiating radiofrequency energy into the area in which crude oil exists. The cylindrically-shaped radiating element is configured to allow passage of fluids there through. The radiofrequency reactor also includes a radiofrequency generator electrically coupled to the radiofrequency antenna. The radiofrequency reactor is operable to control the radiofrequency energy generated. | 03-18-2010 |
20100071894 | ELECTROMAGNETIC BASED SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCING SUBSURFACE RECOVERY OF FLUID WITHIN A PERMEABLE FORMATION - The invention provides for systems and methods of enhancing crude oil flow by radiating electromagnetic energy in the form of focused far field electromagnetic energy into a permeable formation containing the crude oil so as to cause the oil to decrease in viscosity without a substantial change in temperature of the crude oil, thereby increasing the ability of the oil to flow within the formation toward the well and enabling recovery from the reservoir. | 03-25-2010 |
20100078163 | PROCESS FOR ENHANCED PRODUCTION OF HEAVY OIL USING MICROWAVES - A process for utilizing microwaves to heat H | 04-01-2010 |
20100218940 | IN SITU LOOP ANTENNA ARRAYS FOR SUBSURFACE HYDROCARBON HEATING - An array of loop antennas for a heating subsurface formation by emission of RF energy and a method of heating a subsurface formation by an array of subsurface loop antennas is disclosed. The antennas are approximate loops and are positioned in proximity to adjacent loops. The antennas are driven by RF energy. | 09-02-2010 |
20100243240 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FEEDING PARTICLES INTO A STREAM - A device is provided for feeding a plurality of particles into a stream at a controlled rate, the device comprising a conduit having a flow passage for feeding the particles into the stream, and pulsating means for inducing a pulsed flow of the particles through the flow passage. | 09-30-2010 |
20100282460 | Converting Organic Matter From A Subterranean Formation Into Producible Hydrocarbons By Controlling Production Operations Based On Availability Of One Or More Production Resources - One or more methods, systems and computer readable mediums are utilized to provide treatment of a subterranean formation that contains solid organic matter, such as oil shale, tar sands, and/or coal formation. The treatment of the formation includes heating a treatment interval within the subterranean formation with one or more electrical in situ heaters. Available power, or other production resources, for the electrical heaters are determined at regular, predetermined intervals. Heating rates of the one or more electrical heaters are selectively controlled based on the determined available power at each regular, predetermined interval and based on an optimization model that outputs optimal heating rates for each of the electrical heaters at the determined available power. | 11-11-2010 |
20100294488 | ACCELERATING THE START-UP PHASE FOR A STEAM ASSISTED GRAVITY DRAINAGE OPERATION USING RADIO FREQUENCY OR MICROWAVE RADIATION - A method for preheating a formation prior to beginning steam assisted gravity drainage production. The method proceeds by forming a steam assisted gravity drainage production well pair within a formation. A preheating stage is then begun by injecting an activator into the formation. The preheating stage is then accomplished by exciting the activator with radio frequencies. This is followed by beginning the steam assisted gravity drainage operation. | 11-25-2010 |
20100294489 | IN-SITU UPGRADING OF HEAVY CRUDE OIL IN A PRODUCTION WELL USING RADIO FREQUENCY OR MICROWAVE RADIATION AND A CATALYST - A method for heating heavy oil inside a production well. The method raises the subsurface temperature of heavy oil by utilizing an activator that has been injected below the surface. The activator is then excited with a generated microwave frequency such that the excited activator heats the heavy oil. | 11-25-2010 |
20100294490 | WELLHEAD HYDROCARBON UPGRADING USING MICROWAVES - Methods and apparatus relate to processes and systems that introduce microwaves into mixtures containing hydrocarbons. The microwaves cause heating of the hydrocarbons in order to upgrade the hydrocarbons. Such upgrading occurs after recovering the hydrocarbons from within a formation and results in lowering viscosity of the hydrocarbons to enable transportation of the hydrocarbons to offsite locations, such as a refinery. | 11-25-2010 |
20110030946 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF TRANSMITTING ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES FROM A WELLBORE - A method and system for transmitting electromagnetic waves from a wellbore. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems comprising production tubing in a wellbore, the production tubing extends beyond a casing in the wellbore, and the production tubing beyond the casing comprises a first conductive portion, and a second conductive portion mechanically coupled to and electrically isolated from the first conductive portion. | 02-10-2011 |
20110253362 | PROCESS FOR ENHANCED PRODUCTION OF HEAVY OIL USING MICROWAVES - A process for utilizing microwaves to heat H | 10-20-2011 |
20110253363 | PROCESS FOR ENHANCED PRODUCTION OF HEAVY OIL USING MICROWAVES - A process for utilizing microwaves to heat H | 10-20-2011 |
20110277992 | Systems and methods for enhanced recovery of hydrocarbonaceous fluids - A method for enhanced recovery of hydrocarbonaceous fluids, the method including the steps of connecting each of a plurality of wellbores together in fluid communication with a machined flow path, providing a surface fluid to the flow path, and generating an electrical field within the flow path to cause an electrochemical reaction to produce a gas from the fluid, such that the gas mixes with hydrocarbonaceous fluids and increases pressure within at least one of the plurality of wellbores, the flow path, and combinations thereof, thereby enhancing recovery of the hydrocarbonaceous fluid. | 11-17-2011 |
20110315374 | Methods of increasing or enhancing oil and gas recovery - Disclosed are methods for enhancing the productivity of oil wells involving the introduction of specifically determined amounts of pulsed electrical stimulation to the well reservoir by applying electrical current thereto through the well head and well casing | 12-29-2011 |
20120085533 | CYCLIC STEAM STIMULATION USING RF - A method of producing hydrocarbons from a well. The method begins by injecting steam into a well. The bitumen in the formation is then heated with the injected steam, followed by ceasing the injection of steam into the well and then by soaking the bitumen with the injected steam and collecting the heated oil. Steam that has condensed is revaporized by directing RF/MW radiation to the steam allowing for more bitumen to be produced without injecting more steam. In addition, some of the steam could become superheated, wherein the temperature of the superheated steam is greater than the temperature of the steam. The bitumen is heated by the revaporized steam and the superheated steam, followed by soaking the bitumen with the revaporized steam and the superheated steam. Hydrocarbons are then produced from the well. | 04-12-2012 |
20120168150 | Plasma Charges - Disclosed are plasma charges and methods for using plasma charges in completing a well. | 07-05-2012 |
20120267095 | IN SITU RADIO FREQUENCY CATALYTIC UPGRADING - The present invention relates to a method and system for enhancing in situ upgrading of hydrocarbon by implementing an array of radio frequency antennas that can uniformly heat the hydrocarbons within a producer well pipe, so that the optimal temperatures for different hydroprocessing reactions can be achieved. | 10-25-2012 |
20120273190 | ELECTROKINETIC ENHANCED HYDROCARBON RECOVERY FROM OIL SHALE - Disclosed herein are methods for extracting a kerogen-based product from subsurface (oil) shale formations. These methods rely on chemically modifying the shale-bound kerogen using a chemical oxidant so as to render it mobile. The oxidant is provided to a formation fluid in contact with the kerogen in the subsurface shale utilizing electrokinetic-induced migration. An electric field is generated through at least a portion of the kerogen rich zone to induce electrokinetic migration of the oxidant. A mobile kerogen-based product, that includes reaction products of kerogen conversion, is urged toward a production well utilizing electrokinetic-induced migration, and withdrawn from the subsurface shale formation. An electric field generated through at least a portion of the kerogen rich zone can also be utilized to induce migration of catalysts or catalyst precursors. | 11-01-2012 |
20120298354 | TRIGGERING POLYMERIZATION ON-DEMAND FOR WATER CONTROL DOWNHOLE - Methods of sealing a subterranean formation including introducing a trigger-able fluid, the trigger-able fluid containing an ethylenically unsaturated monomer, into a subterranean formation, and using an electromagnetic trigger unit having a electromagnetic source to initiate polymerization of the ethylenically unsaturated monomer after at least a portion of the trigger-able fluid has permeated into the subterranean formation. | 11-29-2012 |
20120305239 | CYCLIC RADIO FREQUENCY STIMULATION - Production of heavy oil and bitumen from a reservoir is enhanced by cyclic radio frequency (RF) radiation of the well. The invention utilizes RF radiation to introduce energy to the hydrocarbon reservoir in cycles in order to heat the reservoir directly, yet conserves energy over the prior art processes that more or less continuously apply RF or microwave energy. The advantage of cyclic RF is it uses less electricity, and thus lowers operating costs. This is achieved by the soak cycle that allows heat to conduct into the formation and assists the heat penetration that is directly radiated into the formation by the antenna. The invention can also be advantageously combined with cyclic steam stimulation. | 12-06-2012 |
20120318498 | Electromagnetic Heat Treatment Providing Enhanced Oil Recovery - A method for using RF energy to facilitate the production of oil from formations separated from the RF energy source by a rock stratum comprises operating an antenna to transmit RF energy into a hydrocarbon formation, the hydrocarbon formation comprised of a first hydrocarbon portion above and adjacent to the antenna, a second hydrocarbon portion above the first hydrocarbon portion, and a rock stratum between the first hydrocarbon portion and the second hydrocarbon portion. The operation of the antenna heats water in the hydrocarbon formation to produce steam in the hydrocarbon formation, and the steam heats hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon formation and fractures the rock stratum to produce fissures in the rock stratum. The heated hydrocarbons in the second hydrocarbon portion flows into the first hydrocarbon portion through the fissures in the rock stratum. | 12-20-2012 |
20120318499 | METHODS FOR INCREASING OIL PRODUCTION - A method of recovering petroleum from dormant oil wells or increasing the production of oil wells is disclosed. An alkali or alkaline earth carbonate is introduced into a water layer associated with a subterranean petroleum reservoir and/or an explosive composition is introduced into an oil layer associated with a subterranean petroleum reservoir. CO | 12-20-2012 |
20120325458 | Electrically Conductive Methods For In Situ Pyrolysis of Organic-Rich Rock Formations - A method and system for heating a subsurface formation using electrical resistance heating includes providing a wellbore which has a production portion that penetrates an interval of organic-rich rock within the subsurface formation. The method includes forming a fracture in the organic-rich rock along a plane that is generally parallel with the production portion of the wellbore. A first electrically conductive proppant is placed into the fracture. Second and third electrically conductive proppants are placed within the wellbore and in electrical communication with the first electrically conductive proppant. The second and third proppants are spaced apart, and have a bulk resistivity that is less than the bulk resistivity of the first proppant. The method then includes passing an electric current through the fracture such that heat is generated by electrical resistivity within the first proppant sufficient to pyrolyze at least a portion of the organic-rich rock into hydrocarbon fluids. | 12-27-2012 |
20120325459 | RADIO FREQUENCY TECHNOLOGY HEATER FOR UNCONVENTIONAL RESOURCES - A system for heating at least a part of a subsurface hydro carbonaceous earth formation forms a borehole into or adjacent to the formation, places elongated coaxial inner and outer conductors into the borehole with the inner and outer conductors electrically connected to each other at a depth below the top of the formation, and connects an AC power source to at least the outer conductor to produce heat in at least one of the conductors. The AC output has a controlled frequency, and the outer conductor comprises a standard oil well component made of a ferromagnetic material that conducts current from the AC power source in only a surface region of the conductor due to the skin effect phenomenon. More heat is dissipated from portions of the conductor that is within the depth range of the formation than from other portions of the conductor. | 12-27-2012 |
20130037262 | HYDROCARBON RESOURCE PROCESSING DEVICE INCLUDING RADIO FREQUENCY APPLICATOR AND RELATED METHODS - A hydrocarbon resource processing device may include a radio frequency (RF) source and an RF applicator coupled to the RF source. The RF applicator may include a base member being electrically conductive, and first and second elongate members being electrically conductive and having proximal ends coupled to the base member and extending outwardly therefrom in a generally parallel spaced apart relation. The first and second elongate members may have distal ends configured to receive the hydrocarbon resource therebetween. In another embodiment, the RF applicator may include an enclosure being electrically conductive and having a passageway therethrough to accommodate a flow of the hydrocarbon resource and a divider being electrically conductive and positioned within the enclosure. | 02-14-2013 |
20130112403 | Multiple Electrical Connections To Optimize Heating For In Situ Pyrolysis - A method for heating a subsurface formation using electrical resistance heating is provided. The method includes placing a first electrically conductive proppant into a fracture within an interval of organic-rich rock. The first electrically conductive proppant has a first bulk resistivity. The method further includes placing a second electrically conductive proppant into the fracture. The second electrically conductive proppant has a second bulk resistivity that is lower than the first bulk resistivity, and is in electrical communication with the first proppant at three or more terminal locations. The method then includes passing an electric current through the second electrically conductive proppant at a selected terminal and through the first electrically conductive proppant, such that heat is generated within the fracture by electrical resistivity. The operator may monitor resistance and switch terminals for the most efficient heating. A system for electrically heating an organic-rich rock formation below an earth surface is also provided. | 05-09-2013 |
20130133880 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PASSIVE ELECTROSEISMIC SURVEYING - A method of passive surveying comprises generating one or more detected signals by passively detecting a signal generated within a subsurface earth formation due to a seismoelectric response or an electroseismic response in at least one porous subsurface earth formation containing at least one fluid, and processing the one or more detected signals to determine at least one property of the subsurface earth formation. | 05-30-2013 |
20130153210 | SITU RF HEATING OF STACKED PAY ZONES - A method of heating stacked pay zones in a hydrocarbon formation by radio frequency electromagnetic waves is provided. In particular, radio frequency antenna array having multiple antenna elements are provided inside a hydrocarbon formation that has steam-impermeable structure. The antenna elements are so positioned and configured that the hydrocarbons in the place where conventional thermal methods cannot be used to heat due to the steam-impermeable structure can now be heated by radio frequency electromagnetic waves. | 06-20-2013 |
20130192820 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USING THE DEVICE FOR "IN SITU" EXTRACTION OF BITUMEN OR ULTRAHEAVY OIL FROM OIL SAND DEPOSITS - The device has at least one electrical conductor loop formed of a feed conductor, a return conductor and an inductor connected therebetween. At least the inductor is at least partially or completely disposed in the oil sand deposit. The device further has an alternating current generator that is electrically connected to the at least one conductor loop by at least two electrical contact points. The alternating current generator has a transformer with at least one primary and at least one secondary winding. The at least one secondary winding comprises a center tap to which a ground potential U | 08-01-2013 |
20130199774 | HEAVY OIL PRODUCTION WITH EM PREHEAT AND GAS INJECTION - An enhanced oil recovery technique that combines gas injection with EM radiation to heat and mobilize heavy oil at least until fluid communication is achieved. | 08-08-2013 |
20130206396 | PISTON TRACTOR SYSTEM FOR USE IN SUBTERRANEAN WELLS - A piston tractor system can include at least two piston assemblies which sealingly engage a wellbore, and a pump which transfers fluid between an annulus isolated between the piston assemblies, and another annulus. A method of operating a piston tractor system can include sealingly engaging at least two piston assemblies with a wellbore, grippingly engaging one piston assembly with the wellbore, and then pumping a fluid from an annulus formed between the piston assemblies, while the other piston assembly is secured to a tubular string, thereby biasing the tubular string to displace through the first piston assembly. A method of advancing a tubular string through a wellbore can include sealingly engaging piston assemblies with the wellbore, each of the piston assemblies including a gripping device which selectively grips the wellbore, and one piston assembly including another gripping device which selectively grips the tubular string. | 08-15-2013 |
20130213637 | MICROWAVE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTRINSIC PERMEABILITY ENHANCEMENT AND EXTRACTION OF HYDROCARBONS AND/OR GAS FROM SUBSURFACE DEPOSITS - A system of a radiating antenna and a sheet beam klystron, as a microwave source, coupled to the antenna by a short waveguide and the method of locating the antenna downhole in a well at a selected target zone by use of a dual chamber flexible tube and applying power to the source to heat and fracture the rock in the target zone and created a migrating phase boundary that radiates out from the antenna 25 meters or more to release the hydrocarbons in the rock. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213638 | Methods of Using Nano-Particles In Wellbore Operations - Methods for heating a material within a wellbore using nano-particles such as carbon nano-tubes. The material may be a flowable material such as cement, drilling mud, an acidizing fluid, or other material. Generally the methods comprise placing the flowable material in proximity to a radial wall of a wellbore. The methods also include running an energy generator into the wellbore. In one aspect, energizing the nano-particles in the filter cake causes the nano-particles to be activated, and increases a temperature within the flowable material to a temperature that is greater than an initial circulation temperature of the flowable material. Activating the energy generator may also assist in curing the flowable material in situ. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213639 | MILLING WELL CASING USING ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSE - An electromagnetic perforation device for well casings includes a coil disposed around a core carried by a mandrel. The device further includes a power supply coupled to a current supply device, which is coupled to said coil. A stabilizing member extends from the mandrel and spaced apart on the mandrel from the coil core. The electromagnetic perforation device may be positioned in a well casing, and the current supply device may rapidly supply a current to the coil to created an electromagnetic field in the coil and simultaneously induces a magnetic field in the well casing. The coil, current, and well casing may be selected such that electromagnetic field and the magnetic field produce repulsive magnetic forces that are sufficient to overcome a yield strength of the well casing and perforate the well casing. | 08-22-2013 |
20130255936 | ELECTROFRACTURING FORMATIONS - A method is provided to produce hydrocarbons from a formation, the method includes the steps of: placing a pair of electrodes within a formation; applying differential voltages between pairs of electrodes wherein the voltage differences between the electrodes is greater than at least 10,000 volts; and producing hydrocarbons from the formation or an adjacent formation wherein the formation has an initial permeability of less than ten millidarcy. The invention also includes an apparatus effective to release pulses of electrical energy into the formation as this frequency and voltage at least until the formation has reached a point where the electrical potential arcs from one electrode to at least one other electrode. | 10-03-2013 |
20130277045 | METHOD OF HEATING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE INCLUDING LOWERING A SETTABLE FREQUENCY BASED UPON IMPEDANCE - A method for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having a laterally extending wellbore therein may include supplying radio frequency (RF) power at a settable frequency from an RF radiator positioned within the laterally extending wellbore to heat the hydrocarbon resource and start formation of a steam bubble adjacent the laterally extending wellbore while sensing an impedance matching value of the RF radiator. The method may also include lowering the settable frequency at least one time based upon the sensed impedance matching value as the steam bubble grows. The frequency may rise after the steam bubble is formed and induction heating operation occurs. | 10-24-2013 |
20130277046 | METHOD FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY FROM CARBONATE RESERVOIRS - Method of using direct current (DC) electrokinetics to enhance oil production from carbonate reservoirs The method comprising the steps of selecting an underground formation comprising an Oil-bearing carbonate reservoir, positioning two or more electrically conductive elements at spaced apart locations in proximity to said formation, at least one of said conductive elements being disposed in or adjacent to a bore hole affording fluid communication between the interior of said bore hole and said formation, passing a controlled amount of electric current along an electrically conductive path through said formation, said electric current being produced by a DC source including a cathode connected to one of said conductive elements and an anode connected to another of said conductive elements, said electrically conductive path comprising at least one of connate formation water and an aqueous electrolyte introduced into said formation, and withdrawing oil from at least one of said bore holes. | 10-24-2013 |
20130284429 | SYSTEM FOR HEATING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE IN A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION INCLUDING A TRANSFORMER AND RELATED METHODS - A system for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having a wellbore extending therein is provided. The system includes a radio frequency (RF) source, an RF antenna to be positioned within the wellbore, and a transformer to be positioned in the wellbore and configured to couple the RF source to the RF antenna so that the RF antenna supplies RF power to the hydrocarbon resource in the subterranean formation. | 10-31-2013 |
20130284430 | SYSTEM FOR HEATING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE IN A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION INCLUDING A MAGNETIC AMPLIFIER AND RELATED METHODS - A system for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having a wellbore extending therein is provided. The system includes a radio frequency (RF) source, an RF antenna to be positioned within the wellbore, and a magnetic amplifier to be positioned in the wellbore and configured to couple the RF source to the RF antenna so that the RF antenna supplies RF power to the hydrocarbon resource in the subterranean formation. | 10-31-2013 |
20130306307 | Methods And Apparatus To Sample Heavy Oil In A Subterranean Formation - A method for sampling fluid in a subterranean formation includes, reducing a viscosity a fluid, pressurizing a portion of the subterranean formation, and collecting a fluid sample. Specifically, a viscosity of a fluid in a portion of the subterranean formation is reduced and a portion of the subterranean formation is pressurizing by injecting a displacement fluid into the subterranean formation. A sample of the fluid pressurized by the displacement fluid is then collected. | 11-21-2013 |
20130312956 | Spectral Analysis Techniques for Fluid Monitoring - Spectroscopic analyses of complex mixtures within a fluid phase can oftentimes be complicated by spectral overlap, making it difficult to analyze for each constituent therein. Methods for analyzing a treatment fluid can comprise: providing a treatment fluid comprising a fluid phase and one or more constituents therein; exposing the treatment fluid to electromagnetic radiation in a spectral region where the fluid phase optically interacts with the electromagnetic radiation, so as to acquire a spectrum of the fluid phase; analyzing the spectrum of the fluid phase to determine at least one property of the treatment fluid, the at least one property of the treatment fluid being selected from the group consisting of a concentration of at least one constituent in the treatment fluid, at least one characteristic of the treatment fluid, and any combination thereof; and introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation. | 11-28-2013 |
20130312957 | Systems and methods for enhanced recovery of hydrocarbonaceous fluids - A method for enhanced recovery of hydrocarbonaceous fluids, the method including the steps of creating a plurality of wellbores in a subterranean formation, whereby one or more of the plurality of wellbores may include a directionally drilled portion with solution disposed therein, and an electrode operatively connected with a power source. Other steps include generating an electrical field within the subterranean formation, thereby causing an electrochemical reaction to produce a gas from the solution, such that the gas mixes with hydrocarbonaceous fluids present in the formation and increases pressure within at least one of the plurality of wellbores, the subterranean formation, and combinations thereof, thereby enhancing recovery of the hydrocarbonaceous fluid. | 11-28-2013 |
20140014324 | METHOD OF RECOVERING HYDROCARBON RESOURCES WHILE INJECTING A SOLVENT AND SUPPLYING RADIO FREQUENCY POWER AND RELATED APPARATUS - A method of recovering hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation may include injecting a solvent via a wellbore into the subterranean formation while supplying radio frequency (RF) power from the wellbore and into the subterranean formation. The method may also include recovering hydrocarbon resources via the wellbore and from the subterranean formation while supplying RF power from the wellbore and into the subterranean formation. | 01-16-2014 |
20140014325 | METHOD FOR RECOVERING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE FROM A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION INCLUDING ADDITIONAL UPGRADING AT THE WELLHEAD AND RELATED APPARATUS - A method for recovering a hydrocarbon resource from a subterranean formation may include applying radio frequency (RF) power to the hydrocarbon resource in the subterranean formation to upgrade the hydrocarbon resource and producing the upgraded hydrocarbon resource from the subterranean formation to a wellhead. The method may also include, at the wellhead, performing an additional upgrading operation on the upgraded hydrocarbon resource using RF power. The method may further include supplying the upgraded hydrocarbon resource to a pipeline for transportation therethrough. | 01-16-2014 |
20140014326 | METHOD OF UPGRADING AND RECOVERING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE FOR PIPELINE TRANSPORT AND RELATED SYSTEM - A method for recovering a hydrocarbon resource from a subterranean formation may include applying radio frequency (RF) power to the hydrocarbon resource in the subterranean formation to upgrade the hydrocarbon resource to have a lowered viscosity. The method may further include producing the upgraded hydrocarbon resource from the subterranean formation to a wellhead, and, at the wellhead, adding a diluent to the upgraded hydrocarbon resource sufficient to meet a pipeline transport viscosity threshold. The method may also include supplying the diluted upgraded hydrocarbon resource to a pipeline for transportation therethrough. | 01-16-2014 |
20140014327 | METHODOLOGY AND SYSTEM FOR PRODUCING FLUIDS FROM A CONDENSATE GAS RESERVOIR - A method of producing reservoir fluids from a condensate gas reservoir traversed by a production well includes the formation of a protrusion into natural gas bearing rock along a producing interval of the reservoir. A heater element is placed into the protrusion and configured for operation. Reservoir fluids are produced from the producing interval while the heater element heats the natural gas bearing rock proximate the heater element. The heat supplied by the heater element reduces condensate build up in the natural gas bearing rock adjacent the production well during production. The heater element is configured to heat the natural gas bearing rock that is proximate the heater element to a temperature that is sufficient to vaporize and/or reduce the viscosity of condensate that is proximate the heater element. A related system is also described. | 01-16-2014 |
20140027108 | Expandable Screen Using Magnetic Shape Memory Alloy Material - A well screen assembly for use in a wellbore comprises a base pipe comprising one or more fluid passageways, and a shape-memory alloy disposed about the base pipe. The one or more fluid passageways are configured to provide fluid communication between an exterior of the base pipe and a central flowbore, and the shape-memory alloy is configured to transition between an expanded state and a compressed state in response to a trigger. | 01-30-2014 |
20140027109 | UTILIZATION OF MICROWAVE TECHNOLOGY IN ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY PROCESS FOR DEEP AND SHALLOW APPLICATIONS - A method and system for treating a portion of a hydrocarbon-bearing formation of a crude oil reservoir containing heavy hydrocarbons using a microwave enhanced heavy hydrocarbon recovery system includes forming a horizontal injection well having an injection horizontal run, forming a horizontal microwave source well having a microwave source horizontal run, forming a horizontal production well having a production horizontal run, introducing a treatment fluid into the crude oil reservoir through the horizontal injection well, introducing a microwave antenna having a microwave emitter into the horizontal microwave source well, introducing electrical power to the microwave emitter such, forming a microwave energy field which reduces the viscosity of the heavy hydrocarbons and forms a production fluid forms, and extracting the production fluid through the horizontal production well. The injection horizontal run is positioned below both the microwave source horizontal run and the production horizontal run. | 01-30-2014 |
20140054028 | BITUMEN RECOVERY PROCESS - . A bitumen recovery process where the process includes the following steps:
| 02-27-2014 |
20140069636 | RESISTIVE HEATER FOR IN SITU FORMATION HEATING - Methods for heating a subsurface formation using an electrical resistance heater are provided. Preferably, the subsurface formation is an organic-rich rock formation, including, for example, an oil shale formation. The method may include providing an electrically conductive first member in a wellbore in a subsurface formation, an electrically conductive second member in the wellbore, and an electrically conductive granular material in the wellbore. The granular material is positioned so as to provide an electrical connection between the first member and the second member. An electrical current is established across the first member, the granular material and the second member so as to generate resistive heat within the granular material. The surrounding subsurface formation is thereby conductively heated so as to cause formation hydrocarbons in the formation to be heated, and in some cases, pyrolyzed to form hydrocarbon fluids. | 03-13-2014 |
20140069637 | RESISTIVE HEATER FOR IN SITU FORMATION HEATING - Methods for heating a subsurface formation using an electrical resistance heater are provided. Preferably, the subsurface formation is an organic-rich rock formation, including, for example, an oil shale formation. The method may include providing an electrically conductive first member in a wellbore in a subsurface formation, an electrically conductive second member in the wellbore, and an electrically conductive granular material in the wellbore. The granular material is positioned so as to provide an electrical connection between the first member and the second member. An electrical current is established across the first member, the granular material and the second member so as to generate resistive heat within the granular material. The surrounding subsurface formation is thereby conductively heated so as to cause formation hydrocarbons in the formation to be heated, and in some cases, pyrolyzed to form hydrocarbon fluids. | 03-13-2014 |
20140069638 | RADIO FREQUENCY ENHANCED STEAM ASSISTED GRAVITY DRAINAGE METHOD FOR RECOVERY OF HYDROCARBONS - A method for heating a hydrocarbon formation is disclosed. A radio frequency applicator is positioned to provide radiation within the hydrocarbon formation. A first signal sufficient to heat the hydrocarbon formation through electric current is applied to the applicator. A second or alternate frequency signal is then applied to the applicator that is sufficient to pass through the desiccated zone and heat the hydrocarbon formation through electric or magnetic fields. A method for efficiently creating electricity and steam for heating a hydrocarbon formation is also disclosed. An electric generator, steam generator, and a regenerator containing water are provided. The electric generator is run. The heat created from running the electric generator is fed into the regenerator causing the water to be preheated. The preheated water is then fed into the steam generator. The RF energy from power lines or from an on site electric generator and steam that is harvested from the generator or provided separately are supplied to a reservoir as a process to recover hydrocarbons. | 03-13-2014 |
20140090834 | EM AND COMBUSTION STIMULATION OF HEAVY OIL - A method of producing heavy oil from a heavy oil formation by combining electromagnetic heating to achieve fluid communication between wells, following by in situ combustion to mobilize and upgrade the heavy oil. | 04-03-2014 |
20140096951 | ENHANCED HYDROCARBON RECOVERY FROM A SINGLE WELL BY ELECTRICAL RESISTIVE HEATING OF MULTIPLE INCLUSIONS IN AN OIL SAND FORMATION - The present invention is a method and apparatus for enhanced recovery of petroleum fluids from the subsurface by electrical resistive heating of the oil sand formation and the heavy oil and bitumen in situ, by electrically energizing vertical inclusion planes containing electrically conductive proppant. The inclusion is propagated into a portion of the formation having a Skempton's B parameter of greater than 0.95 exp(−0.04 p′)+0.008 p′, where p′ is a mean effective stress in MPa at the depth of the inclusion. Multiple propped vertical inclusions at various azimuths are constructed from the well. Electrodes are placed in the well in electrical contact with the inclusions and an alternating direction current is passed through the proppant. By electrically resistive heating of the inclusion, the formation is heated by conduction and associated hydrocarbon fluids are lowered in viscosity and drain by gravity back to the well and produced to the surface. By controlling the reservoir temperature and pressure, a particular fraction of the in situ hydrocarbon reserve is extracted and water inflow into the heated zone is minimized. | 04-10-2014 |
20140096952 | ENHANCED HYDROCARBON RECOVERY FROM A SINGLE WELL BY ELECTRICAL RESISTIVE HEATING OF A SINGLE INCLUSION IN AN OIL SAND FORMATION - The present invention is a method and apparatus for enhanced recovery of petroleum fluids from the subsurface by electrical resistive heating of the oil sand formation and the heavy oil and bitumen in situ, by electrically energizing vertical inclusion planes containing electrically conductive proppant. The inclusion is propagated into a portion of the formation having a Skempton's B parameter of greater than 0.95 exp(−0.04 p′)+0.008 p′, where p′ is a mean effective stress in MPa at the depth of the inclusion. Multiple propped vertical inclusions at various azimuths are constructed from the well. Electrodes are placed in the well in electrical contact with the inclusions and an alternating direction current is passed through the proppant. By electrically resistive heating of the inclusion, the formation is heated by conduction and associated hydrocarbon fluids are lowered in viscosity and drain by gravity back to the well and produced to the surface. By controlling the reservoir temperature and pressure, a particular fraction of the in situ hydrocarbon reserve is extracted and water inflow into the heated zone is minimized. | 04-10-2014 |
20140096953 | ENHANCED HYDROCARBON RECOVERY FROM MULTIPLE WELLS BY ELECTRICAL RESISTIVE HEATING OF OIL SAND FORMATIONS - The present invention is a method and apparatus for enhanced recovery of petroleum fluids from the subsurface by electrical resistive heating of the oil sand formation and the heavy oil and bitumen in situ, by electrically energizing vertical inclusion planes containing electrically conductive proppant. The inclusion is propagated into a portion of the formation having a Skempton's B parameter of greater than 0.95 exp(−0.04 p′)+0.008 p′, where p′ is a mean effective stress in MPa at the depth of the inclusion. Multiple propped vertical inclusions at various azimuths are constructed from multiple wells. Electrodes are placed in the wells in electrical contact with the inclusions and an alternating direction current is passed through the proppant. By electrically resistive heating of the inclusion, the formation is heated by conduction and associated hydrocarbon fluids are lowered in viscosity and drain by gravity back to the well and produced to the surface. By controlling the reservoir temperature and pressure, a particular fraction of the in situ hydrocarbon reserve is extracted and water inflow into the heated zone is minimized. | 04-10-2014 |
20140096954 | METHOD OF DEVELOPING SUBSURFACE BARRIERS - A method and apparatus for construction of a subsurface barrier for the recovery of petroleum fluids from the subsurface by steam and/or solvent injection. Multiple propped vertical inclusions at various azimuths and depths are constructed from multiple wells so that the inclusions intersect and coalesce. The inclusions are made impermeable by a variety of means including the proppant swelling to fill the voids of the inclusions. The proppant includes ceramic beads coated with an electrically conductive and heat hardenable resin. The resin is electrically heated and flows to fill the voids in the inclusions as the resin hardens. The proppant includes sand or ceramic beads that are subject to cold saline water circulated between the wells to freeze the formation pore water. The proppant includes low viscosity grout that is injected with a time delay setting agent or electrically conductive grout that is heated and set by electric current passing through the grout. | 04-10-2014 |
20140102692 | METHOD FOR HYDROCARBON RECOVERY USING A WATER CHANGING OR DRIVING AGENT WITH RF HEATING - A method of processing a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation including a laterally extending injector well, a laterally extending producer well below the laterally extending injector well, and water within the subterranean formation, may include injecting a water changing agent into the laterally extending injector well to change the water in the subterranean formation adjacent the injector well to absorb less RF power. The method may also include applying RF power to an RF radiator within the injector well after injection of the water changing agent, and recovering hydrocarbon resources from the laterally extending producer well. In another embodiment, the method may include injecting a water driving agent into the laterally extending injector well. | 04-17-2014 |
20140102693 | SITU CO-DEVELOPMENT OF OIL SHALE WITH MINERAL RECOVERY - A method of producing hydrocarbon fluids from a subsurface organic-rich rock formation, for example an oil shale formation, in which the oil shale formation contains water-soluble minerals, for example nahcolite, is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of heating the organic-rich rock formation in situ. Optionally, this heating step may be performed prior to any substantial removal of water-soluble minerals from the organic-rich rock formation. In accordance with the method, the heating of the organic-rich rock formation both pyrolyzes at least a portion of the formation hydrocarbons, for example kerogen, to create hydrocarbon fluids, and converts at least a portion of the water-soluble minerals, for example, converts nahcolite to soda ash. Thereafter, the hydrocarbon fluids are produced from the formation. | 04-17-2014 |
20140110103 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING RECOVERY OF HYDROCARBON DEPOSITS - A method for enhancing the recovery of hydrocarbon deposit includes the step of sensing a material property of an underground volume. A three-dimensional map identifying the spatial variation in the sensed material property of the underground volume is generated. Propagating electromagnetic radiation is transmitted in the volume based on the map. The propagating electromagnetic radiation transmission is varied in at least one of frequency, polarization, wavelength, frequency, amplitude, mode, and phase in response to the variation in the material property of a region within the volume to which the propagating electromagnetic radiation is directed. Accordingly, the volume is heated in a spatially varying manner to heat material in the volume and thereby induce the flow of hydrocarbon deposits from the volume. | 04-24-2014 |
20140110104 | HYDROCARBON PROCESSING APPARATUS INCLUDING RESONANT FREQUENCY TRACKING AND RELATED METHODS - A device for processing hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having a laterally extending wellbore therein may include a radio frequency (RF) antenna configured to be positioned within the laterally extending wellbore, and at least one feedback conductor configured to be positioned along the laterally extending wellbore. The device may also include an RF circuit configured to supply RF power to the hydrocarbon resources via the RF antenna. The RF circuit may be configured to supply the RF power at a frequency tracking a resonant frequency of the RF antenna and the RF circuit and based upon the at least one feedback conductor. | 04-24-2014 |
20140116683 | METHOD FOR INCREASING THE PERMEABILITY OF THE BOTTOM WELL-BORE REGION OF A SEAM (IS11.0138-US-PCT) - To increase permeability of a near-wellbore zone of a formation an operation on stimulation of a fluid flow into a wellbore is performed, the operation comprising injecting chemical substances into a targeted zone of the formation. During the stimulation an electrical field is applied to the targeted zone of the formation. | 05-01-2014 |
20140131032 | METHOD FOR PRODUCING HYDROCARBON RESOURCES WITH RF AND CONDUCTIVE HEATING AND RELATED APPARATUSES - A method is for producing hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having therein an injector well and a producer well adjacent the injector well. The method may include conductively heating the subterranean formation by causing a current flow between the injector and producer wells, RF heating the subterranean formation after conductive heating by supplying RF power from at least the injector well, and producing the hydrocarbon resources from the producer well. | 05-15-2014 |
20140151028 | HYDROCARBON RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM INCLUDING RF TRANSMISSION LINE EXTENDING ALONGSIDE A WELL PIPE IN A WELLBORE AND RELATED METHODS - A hydrocarbon resource recovery system for a laterally extending wellbore in a subterranean formation may include a radio frequency (RF) source and an electrically conductive well pipe extending within the laterally extending wellbore. The hydrocarbon resource recovery system may further include an RF transmission line coupled to the RF source and extending alongside in parallel with an exterior of the electrically conductive well pipe within the laterally extending wellbore. The RF transmission line may be coupled to the electrically conductive well pipe to define an RF antenna for heating the hydrocarbon resources within the subterranean formation. | 06-05-2014 |
20140151029 | HYDROCARBON RESOURCE RECOVERY SYSTEM INCLUDING DIFFERENT HYDROCARBON RESOURCE RECOVERY CAPACITIES AND RELATED METHODS - A hydrocarbon resource recovery system for a wellbore in a subterranean formation. The hydrocarbon resource recovery system may include a radio frequency (RF) source, and an antenna configured to be positioned within the wellbore and coupled to the RF source. The antenna may be coupled to the RF source and configured to generate a higher electric field strength region in the subterranean formation having a higher electric field strength and a lower magnetic field strength, and generate a higher magnetic field strength region in the subterranean formation having a higher magnetic field strength and a lower electric field strength. The antenna may have a tubular shape with a plurality of openings therein defining a hydrocarbon resource recovery capacity adjacent the higher electric field strength region that is different than a hydrocarbon resource recovery capacity adjacent the higher magnetic field strength region. | 06-05-2014 |
20140202686 | EFFECTIVE SOLVENT EXTRACTION SYSTEM INCORPORATING ELECTROMAGNETIC HEATING - A method of producing hydrocarbons from a subterranean reservoir comprises pre-heating by exposure to electromagnetic radiation from a electromagnetic radiation source, injecting through at least one injection well a solvent into the reservoir to dilute the hydrocarbons contained in the pre-conditioned portion, and producing through at least one production well a mixture of hydrocarbons and solvent. An apparatus for producing hydrocarbons from a subterranean reservoir comprises at least one radio frequency antenna configured to transmit radio frequency energy into a subterranean reservoir, a power source to provide power to the at least one radio frequency antenna, at least one injection well configured to inject a solvent from a solvent supply source into the subterranean reservoir to lower the viscosity of the hydrocarbons, and at least one production well configured to produce a mixture comprising hydrocarbons and solvent from the subterranean reservoir. | 07-24-2014 |
20140216724 | HYDROCARBON RESOURCE RECOVERY APPARATUS INCLUDING A TRANSMISSION LINE WITH FLUID TUNING CHAMBER AND RELATED METHODS - An apparatus for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having a wellbore extending therein is provided. The apparatus includes a radio frequency (RF) antenna configured to be positioned within the wellbore, a transmission line configured to be positioned in the wellbore and coupled to the RF antenna, and an RF source configured to be coupled with the transmission line. The transmission line includes at least one transmission line tuning section including an inner conductor, an outer conductor surrounding the inner conductor, and a liquid-blocking plug between the inner and outer conductors to define a tuning chamber configured to receive a dielectric liquid with a gas headspace thereabove. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216725 | APPARATUS FOR HEATING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE IN A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION PROVIDING AN ADJUSTABLE LIQUID COOLANT AND RELATED METHODS - An apparatus is provided for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having a wellbore extending therein. The apparatus includes a radio frequency (RF) source, an RE antenna configured to be positioned within the wellbore, and an RF transmission line configured to be positioned within the wellbore and couple the RE source to the RE antenna. The RE transmission line defines a liquid coolant circuit therethrough. The apparatus further includes a liquid coolant source configured to be coupled to the transmission line and to provide a liquid coolant through the liquid coolant circuit having an electrical parameter that is adjustable. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216726 | APPARATUS FOR HEATING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE IN A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION INCLUDING A FLUID BALUN AND RELATED METHODS - An apparatus is provided for heating a hydrocarbon resource in a subterranean formation having a wellbore extending therein. The apparatus includes a radio frequency (RF) antenna configured to be positioned within the wellbore, a transmission line configured to be positioned in the wellbore and coupled to the RF antenna, and an RF source configured to be coupled to the transmission line. The apparatus also includes a balun configured to be coupled to the transmission line adjacent the RF antenna within the wellbore. The balun comprises a body defining a liquid chamber configured to receive a quantity of dielectric liquid therein. | 08-07-2014 |
20140231070 | Inhibiting effects of sloughing in wellbores - Certain embodiments provide a heater. A heater device includes a skin effect component having at least one insulated electrical core conductor in electrical communication with an adjacent and substantially parallel, elongated ferromagnetic shape having a reduction and localization of the depth and width of the effective conductor path in the cross-section of the ferromagnetic wall; and, an inorganic ceramic insulation component. | 08-21-2014 |
20140251596 | SINGLE VERTICAL OR INCLINED WELL THERMAL RECOVERY PROCESS - The present disclosure describes a single well predominantly gravity-dominated recovery process for producing viscous hydrocarbons from a subterranean oil sands formation. The process operates a single vertical or inclined well within a formation, the wellbore having an injection means and a production means, the injection means being positioned in the wellbore closer to the surface than the production means. The process provides an area of high mobility adjacent the production means. A mobilizing fluid is injected through the injection means into the formation to mobilize the viscous hydrocarbons in the formation while substantially concurrently producing hydrocarbons through the production means. The gravity dominated process may be SAGD and the present process may be a single vertical or inclined well SAGD process. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251597 | APPARATUS FOR HEATING HYDROCARBON RESOURCES WITH MAGNETIC RADIATOR AND RELATED METHODS - An apparatus is for heating hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having a wellbore therein. The apparatus includes an RF source, and a magnetic field radiator including a ferromagnetic body having an aboveground portion and a belowground portion coupled thereto. The magnetic field radiator includes a conductive wire coil surrounding the aboveground portion and coupled to the RF source so that an RF current through the conductive wire coil magnetizes the ferromagnetic body and generates a magnetic field from the belowground portion to heat the hydrocarbon resources. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251598 | RADIO-FREQUENCY ENHANCEMENT AND FACILITATION OF IN-SITU COMBUSTION - Radio frequency radiation is introduced downhole to heat one or more components of an in-situ hydrocarbon mixture. The mixture is heated to a temperature conducive to auto-ignition. Upon heating, an oxidant is introduced at conditions supportive of auto-ignition. The combined oxidant/hydrocarbon mixture is then allowed to auto-ignite and combust to form a partially upgraded mixture. Certain embodiments include introducing an ignition agent to facilitate auto-ignition. The radio frequency radiation may be supplemented, continued, or varied as desired to maintain, facilitate, or manage the resulting combustion process. In some cases, an activator is introduced to the formation to interact with the generated radio frequency radiation to enhance hydrocarbon heating. Advantages of certain embodiments include lower cost, reduced heating/ignition equipment, higher efficiencies, increased hydrocarbon recovery, and fewer auto-ignition failures. | 09-11-2014 |
20140251599 | Method For Developing Deposits And Extracting Oil And Gas From Shale Formations - A method for developing deposits and extracting oil and gas from formations is provided including pumping electrically conductive fluid under pressure into a first heating well and a second heating well, creating an electrically conductive zone between the first heating well and the second heating well, positioning at least one first electrical current source into the first well and at least one second electrical current source into the second well such that the first and second electrical current sources come into contact with the electrically conductive fluid, applying alternating current to the at least one first electrical current source and the at least one second electrical current source, and generating an electric arc in the electrically conductive zone. | 09-11-2014 |
20140262221 | ELECTRICAL HEATING OF OIL SHALE AND HEAVY OIL FORMATIONS - A method (and system) is provided that enhances production of hydrocarbons from a subterranean formation by identifying at least one target interval of the subterranean formation that is in proximity to a pay interval, wherein the at least one target interval has an electrical resistance less than electrical resistance of the pay interval. A plurality of electrodes are placed in positions spaced apart from one another and adjacent the at least one target interval. Electrical current is injected into the target interval by supplying electrical signals to the plurality of electrodes. The electrical current injected into the at least one target interval passes through at least a portion of the at least one target interval in order to heat the at least one target interval and heat the pay interval by thermal conduction for enhancement of production of hydrocarbons from the pay interval. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262222 | RF ANTENNA ASSEMBLY WITH SERIES DIPOLE ANTENNAS AND COUPLING STRUCTURE AND RELATED METHODS - An RF antenna assembly is to be positioned within a wellbore in a subterranean formation for hydrocarbon resource recovery. The RF antenna assembly includes a series of tubular dipole antennas to be positioned within the wellbore, each tubular dipole antenna having a pair of dipole elements, and an RF transmission line extending within the series of tubular dipole antennas. The RF antenna assembly includes a respective coupling structure between each pair of dipole elements and between the series of tubular dipole antennas, each coupling structure including a dielectric tube mechanically coupling adjacent dipole elements, and a tap connector carried by the dielectric tube and electrically coupling the RF transmission line to a corresponding dipole element. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262223 | RF ANTENNA ASSEMBLY WITH DIELECTRIC ISOLATOR AND RELATED METHODS - An RF antenna assembly is positioned within a wellbore in a subterranean formation for hydrocarbon resource recovery. The RF antenna assembly includes first and second tubular conductors and a dielectric isolator therebetween. The dielectric isolator includes a dielectric tube having opposing first and second open ends, a first tubular connector having a first slotted recess receiving therein the first open end of the dielectric tube, and a second tubular connector having a second slotted recess receiving therein the second open end of the dielectric tube. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262224 | RF ANTENNA ASSEMBLY WITH FEED STRUCTURE HAVING DIELECTRIC TUBE AND RELATED METHODS - An RF antenna assembly may be positioned within a wellbore in a subterranean formation for hydrocarbon resource recovery. The RF antenna assembly includes first and second tubular conductors and a feed structure therebetween defining a dipole antenna to be positioned within the wellbore, and an RF transmission line extending within one of the tubular conductors. The feed structure includes a dielectric tube, a first connector coupling the RF transmission line to the first tubular conductor, and a second connector coupling the RF transmission line to the second tubular conductor. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262225 | OIL EXTRACTION USING RADIO FREQUENCY HEATING - Oil extraction from an oil-bearing formation includes: heating a first portion of the formation containing oil with radio frequency energy; extracting the oil from the first portion of the formation; injecting steam into the first portion of the formation to heat a second portion of the formation containing oil adjacent the first portion; and extracting the oil from the second portion of the formation. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262226 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING HIGH-PRESSURE PULSES IN A SUBTERRANEAN DIELECTRIC MEDIUM - An apparatus and method for generating high-pressure pulses in a subterranean dielectric medium are provided. The method includes providing an electrode assembly in the medium, the electrode assembly having first and second electrodes that define a gap therebetween. A shaped electric current pulse is delivered to the electrode assembly. The electric current pulse has a duration greater than 100 μs so that an electric arc is formed between the first and second electrodes, thereby producing a pressure pulse in the medium. | 09-18-2014 |
20140262227 | Ring Electrode Device and Method For Generating High-Pressure Pulses - A method, system, and electrode assembly are disclosed that maximizes the lifetime of electrodes for high energy electrical discharges in water by arranging the electrodes in concentric rings or a stack of concentric rings. The radii and the thickness of the ring electrodes are optimized for electrical reliability, low jitter, and minimal erosion. In one embodiment, the electrode assembly is configured to be disposed in a subterranean dielectric medium, receive an electric current pulse having a length of time greater than 100 microseconds, and form an electric arc between the first electrode and the second electrode, thereby producing a pressure pulse axially away from the insulator. | 09-18-2014 |
20140290934 | RADIO FREQUENCY HEAT APPLICATOR FOR INCREASED HEAVY OIL RECOVERY - A radio frequency applicator and method for heating a geological formation is disclosed. A radio frequency source configured to apply a differential mode signal is connected to a coaxial conductor including an outer conductor pipe and an inner conductor. The inner conductor is coupled to a second conductor pipe through one or more metal jumpers. One or more current chokes, such as a common mode choke or antenna balun, are installed around the outer conductor pipe and the second conductor pipe to concentrate electromagnetic radiation within a hydrocarbon formation. The outer conductor pipe and the second conductor pipe can be traditional well pipes for extracting hydrocarbons, such as a steam pipe and an extraction pipe of a steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) system. An apparatus and method for installing a current choke are also disclosed. | 10-02-2014 |
20140305635 | Method For Developing Oil And Gas Fields Using High-Power Laser Radiation ForMore Complete Oil And Gas Extraction - A method of developing oil and gas fields includes creating a well by mechanically displacing rock material via a drilling device, increasing a well diameter by impacting the rock material via laser beams emitted from a central emitter, and reinforcing inner walls of the well by impacting wall material via laser beams emitted from a lateral emitter. A system includes a drilling device with a hollow lumen and a central drilling head, at least one fiber optic cable positioned within the lumen, a laser source coupled to a proximal end of the cable, a central emitter positioned inside the central drilling head and coupled to a distal end of the cable, at least one lateral emitter positioned on a side wall of the drilling device and coupled to the cable, and a controller coupled to the central and lateral emitters for controlling at least one laser beam characteristic. | 10-16-2014 |
20150021013 | Electromagnetic Assisted Ceramic Materials for Heavy Oil Recovery and In-Situ Steam Generation - The disclosure provides a downhole tool, and method of using the downhole tool, for enhancing recovery of heavy oil from a formation. A method for enhancing recovery of heavy oil from a formation includes placing a downhole tool in a first wellbore. The downhole tool has an outer core having at least one ceramic portion and at least one electromagnetic antenna located within the outer core. Electromagnetic radiation is emitted from the at least one electromagnetic antenna to heat the at least one ceramic portion. | 01-22-2015 |
20150034303 | HYDROCARBON RESOURCE HEATING SYSTEM INCLUDING SLEEVED BALUN AND RELATED METHODS - A system for heating hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having a wellbore therein includes a coaxial transmission line, a balun, and a radio frequency (RF) antenna coupled together in series and configured to be positioned in the wellbore so that the RF antenna heats the hydrocarbon resources in the subterranean formation. The coaxial transmission line includes an inner conductor and an outer conductor surrounding the inner conductor. The balun includes an outer conductive sleeve having a proximal end coupled to the outer conductor of the coaxial transmission line and a medial portion coupled to the inner conductor of the coaxial transmission line. The balun also includes an inner tubular conductor extending longitudinally within the outer conductive sleeve between the outer conductor of the coaxial transmission line and the RF antenna. | 02-05-2015 |
20150034304 | HYDROCARBON RESOURCE HEATING SYSTEM INCLUDING BALUN HAVING A FERRITE BODY AND RELATED METHODS - A system for heating hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation having a wellbore therein includes a coaxial transmission line, a balun, and a radio frequency (RF) antenna coupled together in series and configured to be positioned in the wellbore so that the RF antenna heats the hydrocarbon resources in the subterranean formation. The coaxial transmission line includes an inner conductor and an outer conductor surrounding the inner conductor. The balun includes an outer conductive sleeve having a proximal end coupled to the outer conductor of the coaxial transmission line and a medial portion coupled to the inner conductor of the coaxial transmission line. An inner tubular conductor extends longitudinally within the outer conductive sleeve between the outer conductor of the coaxial transmission line and the RF antenna. The balun also includes a ferrite body surrounding the inner tubular conductor at the proximal end. | 02-05-2015 |
20150060052 | SHEET BEAM KLYSTRON (SBK) AMPLIFIERS WITH WRAP-ON SOLENOID FOR STABLE OPERATION - A microwave energy tool including a sheet beam klystron that includes a tube body for carrying an electron sheet beam that has a plurality of cavities and a magnetic solenoid wound directly on the tube body. | 03-05-2015 |
20150114623 | PULSED FRACTURING METHOD AND APPARATUS - The branching of fractures in shale formations surrounding a wellbore can be enhanced so that more rock surface is exposed in the formation and more hydrocarbon resources can be recovered using smaller quantities of fracturing fluids. The branching of the fractures can be enhanced by establishing a substantially static sub-threshold fluid pressure in a well in a geological formation, and generating a pressure pulse in the well such that the pressure pulse combined with the substantially static sub-threshold fluid pressure forms a plurality of fractures in the geological formation. An arc jet insertable into a passage in the geological formation and having an electric arc channel can be used to generate the pressure pulse. | 04-30-2015 |
20150129202 | METHOD OF HEATING A HYDROCARBON RESOURCE INCLUDING SLIDABLY POSITIONING AN RF TRANSMISSION LINE AND RELATED APPARATUS - A method for heating hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation may include positioning a tubular conductor within a wellbore in the subterranean formation and slidably positioning a radio frequency (RF) transmission line within the tubular conductor so that a distal end of the transmission line is electrically coupled to the tubular conductor. The method may also include supplying RF power, via the RF transmission line, to the tubular conductor so that the tubular conductor serves as an RF antenna to heat the hydrocarbon resources in the subterranean formation. | 05-14-2015 |
20150308251 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR STIMULATING A TREATMENT ZONE NEAR A WELLBORE AREA OF A SUBTERRANEAN FORMATION - The invention concerns a method for stimulating a treatment zone near a wellbore area in fluid connection with at least one porous zone of a subterranean formation, said method comprising the steps of generating (S | 10-29-2015 |
20150337637 | METHOD OF RECOVERING HYDROCARBON RESOURCES WHILE INJECTING A SOLVENT AND SUPPLYING RADIO FREQUENCY POWER AND RELATED APPARATUS - A method of recovering hydrocarbon resources in a subterranean formation may include injecting a solvent via a wellbore into the subterranean formation while supplying radio frequency (RF) power from the wellbore and into the subterranean formation. The method may also include recovering hydrocarbon resources via the wellbore and from the subterranean formation while supplying RF power from the wellbore and into the subterranean formation. | 11-26-2015 |
20160010440 | OIL PRODUCTION INTENSIFICATION DEVICE AND METHOD | 01-14-2016 |
20160010442 | Circulation methodologies and systems for hydrocarbon production from oil shale and oil sands and well-rehabilitation and formational pressurization of conventional hydrocarbon systems | 01-14-2016 |
20160024888 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CLEANING CONTROL PARTICLES IN A WELLBORE - The invention concerns a method for cleaning control particles in a wellbore of a subterranean formation to improve the recovery of formation fluids and/or gases, said wellbore comprising a wall defining a borehole, at least one control equipment arranged into said borehole and a plurality of control particles arranged between said control equipment and said wall, said method comprising the steps of generating at least one shock wave nearby said control equipment and propagating said at least one shock wave through said control equipment toward said control particles for cleaning said control particles. | 01-28-2016 |
20160024901 | METHOD FOR HEATING OIL SHALE SUBSURFACE IN-SITU - A method for heating oil shale underground in situ. Shale oil and fuel gas can be obtained from an underground oil shale seam in situ, and the fuel gas can also be obtained from an underground coal seam in situ. Wells are drilled downwardly reaching an operation region of an underground oil shale ore bed. Electricity for partial discharge of the ore bed is conducted into electrodes, and a plasma channel is formed in the ore bed and subjected to breakdown by the electricity; after the resistance of each of two electrode regions is lowered, the two electrodes are used for conducting currents into the plasma channel in the oil shale ore bed; the oil shale ore bed is heated under the resistance heating function of the plasma channel; and released heat is used for realizing thermal cracking and gasification of fixed organic carbon in the oil shale ore bed. | 01-28-2016 |
20160097268 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ENHANCING PETROLEUM EXTRACTION - An apparatus and method for enhancing the extraction of hydrocarbons from an underground reservoir using a well is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a power source operable to supply periodic electrical power at a first frequency; at least one impulse generator unit operable to convert the periodic electrical power at the first frequency into periodic electrical power at a second frequency and to couple electromagnetic energy generated by the periodic electrical power at the second frequency into the reservoir, the second frequency being at least ten times higher than that of the first frequency; and a conducting cable being operatively coupled between the power source and the at least one impulse generator unit. | 04-07-2016 |
20160145986 | Mitigating The Effects Of Subsurface Shunts During Bulk Heating Of A Subsurface Formation - Systems and methods for mitigating the effects of subsurface shunts during bulk heating of a subsurface formation are disclosed. The methods may include electrically connecting, and concurrently applying, first, second, and third alternating voltages to respective first, second, and third electrode assemblies within the subsurface formation. The first, second, and third alternating voltages may have the same frequency and respective first, second, and third phase angles. The second phase angle may be different than the first phase angle, and the third phase angle may be different than the second phase angle. The methods may include, upon determining a presence of a subsurface shunt between the first electrode assembly and the second electrode assembly, electrically connecting the first electrode assembly to the second alternating voltage and applying the second alternating voltage to the first and second electrode assemblies while applying the third alternating voltage to the third electrode assembly. | 05-26-2016 |
20160145987 | Method of Recovering Hydrocarbons Within a Subsurface Formation - A method of recovering hydrocarbons includes forming a first electrode by creating a first hydraulic fracture within the subsurface formation and pumping a first electrically conductive material into the first hydraulic fracture; forming a second electrode by creating a second hydraulic fracture within the subsurface formation and pumping a second electrically conductive material into the second hydraulic fracture; electrically connecting a first power transmitting mechanism to the first electrode; electrically connecting a second power transmitting mechanism to the second electrode; and heating the subsurface formation between the first electrode and the second electrode by transmitting an electrical current via the first power transmitting mechanism to the first electrode and via the second power transmitting mechanism to the second electrode and by flowing the electrical current from the first electrode to the second electrode. The electrical current substantially includes a frequency between 60 Hertz and 500 Kilohertz. | 05-26-2016 |
20160160624 | Bulk Heating a Subsurface Formation - Systems and methods for bulk heating of a subsurface formation with at least a pair of electrode assemblies in the subsurface formation are disclosed. The method may include electrically powering the pair of electrode assemblies to resistively heat a subsurface region between the pair of electrode assemblies with electrical current flowing through the subsurface region between the pair of electrode assemblies; flowing a shunt mitigator into at least one of the pair of electrode assemblies; and mitigating a subsurface shunt between the pair of electrode assemblies with the shunt mitigator. Mitigating may be responsive to a shunt indicator that indicates a presence of the subsurface shunt. | 06-09-2016 |
20190145235 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC HEATING OF HYDROCARBON FORMATIONS | 05-16-2019 |