Systems and methods for driving a pumpjack

Abstract

Systems and methods for providing a pump driving unit for driving an above ground pump. The pump driving unit utilizes a single prime mover and a drive train for actuating multiple components required to drive the above ground pump. Some implementations of the pump driving unit include phase separation devices, filtering units, and cooling units that may also be actuated by the drive train of the unit. Some implementations of the pump driving unit further include an enclosure and a platform for containing the unit and simplifying on-site installation.

Description

1. RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation in part of co-pending utility application Ser. No. 12 / 202,108 filed Aug. 29, 2008, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DRIVING A SUBTERRANEAN PUMP.”BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a low emission system for reciprocating a natural gas / oil well pumpjack associated with a subterranean well. In particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods for providing modular and combination units capable of driving a hydraulic pump or motor which in turn drives a pumpjack, as well as other components of the system, as required to produce the well. The present invention further relates to systems and methods for providing modular and combinations unit capable of driving a subterranean pump associated with a subterranean well.[0003]2. Background and Related Art[0004]Oil wells typically vary in depth from a few hundred feet, to several thousand feet. In many wells ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]Implementation of the present invention takes place in association with an artificial lift system for recovery of oil and / or gas from a subterranean well. In some implementations, the combination pump drive includes a prime mover, a hydraulic pump or motor, and a compressor. The combination unit further includes a drive train having a jack shaft interconnected to a plurality of pulleys and belts whereby the single prime mover drives the various components of the combination unit. The combined configuration of the prime mover and the drive train eliminates the need for multiple prime movers or motors to operate the various components of the unit. Thus, a single prime mover is used to simultaneously and efficiently drive the components of the unit, which in turn drives the pumpjack associated within a subterranean well. For example, in one embodiment a single prime mover is used to drive both the pumpjack and simultaneously perform other tasks, such as compressing and cooling the gas at the surface prior to storage.

Problems solved by technology

In many wells there is insufficient subterranean pressure to force the oil and water to the earth's surface.

Thus, such mechanical systems suffer from a number of inherent disadvantages or inefficiencies which are undesirable.

While techniques currently exist that relate to driving a pumpjack, challenges still exist.

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