Downhole power generation
US6253847A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 5, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jul 3, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 5, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01M6/185
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
There is provided downhole power generation apparatus with a first electrode, a second electrode and an electrolyte, wherein the first electrode comprises a casing within a borehole. The first electrode and the second electrode are formed from dissimilar metals and by appropriate selection of the two dissimilar metals, the casing functions as the cathode. Typically the first electrode is formed from a steel casing and the second electrode is of zinc. The second electrode is provided on an insulated connector joining at least two sections of casing. Power is extracted in an electrical load connected between the casing and the second electrode. Where a cement holds the casing in place within the borehole, it serves as the electrolyte. The cement is provided with additives to improve its conductivity. The first electrode is provided with oxide coatings, such as iron (III) oxide, to mediate the electrolytic reaction at the cathode. A method of generating electrical power down a borehole is also provided, the method comprising positioning at least one hollow cylinder made from a first material within a borehole, placing a dissimilar second material within the borehole, the first and sec…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.