Insulated Conductors for Subsurface Formation Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing hydrocarbons, hydrogen, and other products from hydrocarbon-containing formations are inefficient, leading to high operating costs and insufficient injection capacity, particularly in impermeable formations like oil shale and tar sands.
Innovation Solution
The development of a heating system for subsurface formations using a three-phase wye transformer with insulated electrical conductors and a return conductor, along with insulation to prevent electrical interference, allows for efficient heat transfer and improved permeability in the formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional heating methods are used in impermeable formations, then heat transfer efficiency is poor, but operating costs increase and injection capacity remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical heating systems with an electromagnetic heating system using insulated conductors and three-phase power. Electrical energy is converted to thermal energy through resistive heating of the conductor, which then transfers heat to the formation through conduction and radiation, eliminating the need for mechanical heat transfer equipment and improving efficiency in impermeable formations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the heating system by using high-temperature resistant insulated conductors that can operate at elevated temperatures. The insulation material properties are specifically selected to maintain electrical insulation while allowing thermal energy transfer to the formation, optimizing both energy efficiency and production capability
2Temperature
If electrical conductors are placed in conduit for heating, then heat transfer to formation is enabled, but electrical interference between conductors and conduit occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an insulation layer as an intermediary between the electrical conductor and the conduit. This insulation layer serves dual functions: it prevents electrical contact and interference between the conductor and conduit, while also facilitating controlled thermal energy transfer from the conductor to the surrounding formation through the conduit wall
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction for the insulated conductor system, combining conductive materials for electrical current flow with insulating materials that provide both electrical isolation and thermal transfer properties. The conduit itself may be constructed from composite materials that balance electrical non-conductivity with thermal conductivity to the formation
3Quantity of substance
If impermeable formations like oil shale and tar sands are treated, then hydrocarbon resources can be accessed, but injection capacity is insufficient and permeability is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies thermal energy to change the physical parameters of the impermeable formation, including increasing temperature to alter rock matrix properties, reduce viscosity of hydrocarbons, and potentially create thermal fractures. These parameter changes effectively increase the formation's permeability and injection capacity, enabling reliable hydrocarbon recovery from previously inaccessible formations
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
This approach enhances the production of hydrocarbons and hydrogen by increasing the permeability of subsurface formations, thereby improving the economic viability of hydrocarbon extraction and processing.
Implementation Method 1
a first heater configuration, comprising: a conduit located in a first opening in the subsurface formation; three electrical conductors located in the conduit
Implementation Method 2
insulation located inside the conduit, the insulation being configured to electrically insulate the three electrical conductors, the return conductor, and the conduit from each other
Implementation Method 3
allows for efficient heat transfer and improved permeability in the formation
Data Source
AI summary
A heating system for a subsurface formation includes a conduit located in a first opening in the subsurface formation. Three electrical conductors are located in the conduit. A return conductor is located inside the conduit. The return conductor is electrically coupled to the ends of the electrical conductors distal from the surface of the formation. Insulation is located inside the conduit. The insulation electrically insulates the three electrical conductors, the return conductor, and the conduit from each other.