Electro-Hydraulic Seismic Pressure Wave Source for Oil Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional oil recovery methods are inefficient in liberating trapped oil in reservoirs due to insufficient pressure forces on hydrocarbon droplets, leading to significant oil remaining in the ground, and existing seismic stimulation technologies lack sufficient acoustic power and depth penetration.
Innovation Solution
A downhole oil recovery tool employing an electro-hydraulic seismic pressure wave source with a brushless motor and tapered hydraulic bearing to generate low-frequency seismic waves, enhancing oil recovery by reducing capillary forces and improving injectivity through the use of a compact, reliable design capable of operating in water-saturated environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional oil recovery methods are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but oil recovery efficiency is insufficient and large volumes of hydrocarbons remain in the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical pumping and chemical injection systems with an acoustic wave generation system. The electro-hydraulic seismic pressure wave source generates low-frequency acoustic waves that propagate through the formation, utilizing acoustic pressure forces to mobilize trapped hydrocarbons rather than relying on mechanical pumps or chemical surfactants.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the recovery process by introducing low-frequency acoustic waves (typically 10-100 Hz) into the formation. These acoustic waves create pressure variations that alter the capillary forces and interfacial tensions within the porous media, enabling the mobilization of trapped oil without changing the chemical composition of the injected fluids.
2Power
If existing seismic stimulation technologies are deployed, then some acoustic energy is generated, but acoustic power and depth penetration are insufficient to effectively liberate trapped oil
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an electro-hydraulic system where electrical energy is converted to hydraulic pressure, which then drives a piston to generate acoustic waves. The hydraulic piston system allows for the generation of high-acoustic-power low-frequency waves while maintaining a relatively compact and manageable source configuration compared to traditional electromagnetic or explosive seismic sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic wave generation system operates through periodic cycles of pressure buildup and release. The hydraulic piston is cycled periodically to create continuous low-frequency acoustic waves, maintaining sustained acoustic power output over extended periods. This periodic action allows the system to accumulate sufficient acoustic energy to effectively penetrate deep formations and liberate trapped hydrocarbons.
3Productivity
If low frequency vibration is applied to improve oil recovery, then capillary forces are reduced and oil migration is enhanced, but the technology lacks sufficient depth penetration and acoustic power
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic wave generation system is segmented into distinct functional components: an electro-hydraulic power conversion section, a hydraulic piston mechanism, and an acoustic wave emission zone. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the power conversion section for efficient electrical-to-hydraulic energy transfer, the piston for high-force generation, and the emission zone for effective acoustic wave propagation into the formation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The tool effectively stimulates oil recovery and injectivity by generating seismic waves that alter capillary forces, allowing for the mobilization of residual oil and improved fluid flow, thereby increasing oil extraction efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
A downhole oil recovery tool employing an electro-hydraulic seismic pressure wave source with a brushless motor and tapered hydraulic bearing to generate low-frequency seismic waves
Implementation Method 2
enhancing oil recovery by reducing capillary forces and improving injectivity
Implementation Method 3
tapered hydraulic bearing to generate low-frequency seismic waves
Implementation Method 4
brushless motor and tapered hydraulic bearing to generate low-frequency seismic waves
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for generating acoustic waves in a medium to stimulate oil recovery within an oil reservoir, operable with a single moving part—a central rotor. The apparatus is suitable for use in association with a system to facilitate the cogeneration of geothermal energy or sequestration and storage of CO2.