Separation of tar from sand

US8066870B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• M-I L.L.C. · US

Inventors

• Michael A. Freeman · Kingwood, US
• Alex Stoian · Calgary, CA
• Lewis J. Dutel · Cypress, US
• Cory C. Melancon · Houston, US
• Richard Bingham · Katy, US
• Paul Newman · Thornley with Wheatley, GB

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 17, 2010
• Grant date: Nov 29, 2011
• Expiry date: Feb 17, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C10G1/047
• WIPO field: Basic materials chemistry
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A system for separating hydrocarbons from a solid source including a primary separation tank including a first hydrocarbon removing device to remove hydrocarbons from a slurry of water and solids. Further, the system including a transfer device between the primary separation tank and a secondary separation tank, wherein the transfer device is configured to transfer solids from the slurry to the secondary separation tank. Further still, the system including a second hydrocarbon removal device, a fine particle separation device to remove remaining solids in the secondary separation tank, and a product collection tank to receive hydrocarbons removed from the primary and secondary separation tanks.