Thermal hydrate preventer
US8522881B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 2012 |
| Grant date | Sep 3, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 2, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B37/06
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Systems and methods for the prevention or dissolution of hydrates in an undersea well. One example system includes a submersible isolation bell for capturing effluent being exhausted from the well, and an umbilical. A power cable supplies electric power to the submersible isolation bell, for example for heating of the interior of the submersible isolation bell to prevent or discourage the formation of methane hydrates and the precipitation of other byproducts. Diluents may be supplied to the submersible isolation bell to further discourage the formation of hydrates and precipitation of other byproducts. The diluents may be heated locally at the submersible isolation bell, using electric power supplied by the power cable. A conformable seal may substantially seal the submersible isolation bell to a riser or other structure at the wellhead.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.