Gel mixing system
US7581872B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 2006 |
| Grant date | Sep 1, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 4, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01F25/431
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A gel mixing system that employs a dynamic diffuser for quickly removing the air from the fluid as the fluid exits a traditional gel mixer and employs progressive dilution of the gel in a series of hydration tanks to maximize hydration time without allowing the gel to become so viscous that it is not easily diluted or pumped. High shear agitation of the fluid between the hydration tanks helps to increase the hydration rate. Progressive dilution of the gel increases residence time of the gel in the tanks and results in longer hydration time in the limited tank space available, resulting in continuous production of gel that is almost fully hydrated when it is pumped to the fracturing blender and subsequently to the well bore without the need for an increase in the volume of the hydration tanks.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.