Thomas E Meeks

US Patent:

43723861, Feb 8, 1983

Filed:

Feb 20, 1981

Appl. No.:

6/236447

Inventors:

Craig A. Rhoades - Beverly Hills CA
Thomas Meeks - Lynwood CA

International Classification:

E21B 4324
E21B 3600

US Classification:

166300

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for recovering oil from an oil bearing formation utilizing steam injected into the formation. A working fluid is heated at the surface to produce a reversible, chemical reaction, particularly a reforming reaction in a reforming/methanation reaction cycle. The products of the reforming reaction are transported at near ambient temperatures to a downhole heat exchanger through which water is circulated. There a catalyst triggers the methanation reaction, liberating heat energy to convert the water to steam. The products of the methanation reaction are recirculated to the surface to repeat the cycle. In one embodiment the products of the methanation reaction are injected into the formation along with the steam. Various catalysts, and various systems for heating the working fluid are disclosed.