(2015003) FLUID EXTRACTION
Fluid Extraction Technology can improve down hole gas separation by employing material and fluid flow properties in ways that are not now effectively utilized. Downhole pumps that handle fluids are adversely affected by free and entrained gas entering the inlet of the pump. To separate the gas ahead of the suction of pumps in the bottom of a well, operators typically configure a path for the fluid to be redirected downward to allow the gas to rise while the liquid falls to the intake of the pump. Virtually all of the gas separators use single pass serial separators based on gravity. The primary separation is typically the tubing by casing annulus and the second stage of separation is the labyrinth of falling liquid and rising gas inside the mud anchor or packer assembly. This technology can be very effective but often times is not sufficient. In addition, the size and length of the equipment has a larger material footprint than necessary.
Fluid Extraction technology uses gravity but also uses mechanical and fluid properties to enhance separation. These attributes include wettability, fluid adhesion, gas nucleation and the concept of Liquid hold up or circulation cells. Integrating these concepts allows better use of the primary flow volume of the casing by tubing annulus.