Conduction convection reflux retorting process
US8464792B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 13, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jun 18, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 27, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B43/2401
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A sub-surface hydrocarbon production system comprising an energy delivery well extending from the surface to a location proximate a bottom of the hydrocarbons to be produced. A production well extends from the surface to a location proximate the hydrocarbon and a convection passage extends between the energy delivery well and the production well thereby forming a convection loop. The energy delivery well and the production well intersect at a location proximate the hydrocarbon such that the convection loop is in the form of a triangle. Preferably, the convection passage extends upwardly from a point at which the convection passage intersects the production well. The system also includes a heater, such as an electric heater or down-hole burner, disposed in the energy delivery well.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.