Downhole steam generator
US7497253B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 3, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 30, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/24
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
In a downhole steam generator, hydrogen, oxygen, and water are separately injected into an oil well. The hydrogen and oxygen are made to react, either with the aid of a catalyst or due to an electric spark. Heat from the reaction converts the water in the area into steam, which is then used to enhance the production of the oil well. The hydrogen may be produced at the surface of the well by the steam reforming of a hydrocarbon. The hydrogen injected into the well may be provided as part of a reformate mixture produced by the steam reforming process. The water is preferably atomized by the stream of oxygen immediately before ignition, so as to provide a maximum surface area for heat absorption.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.