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Title: Systems and methods for producing hydrocarbons from tar sands formations

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1012650

A system for treating a tar sands formation is disclosed. A plurality of heaters are located in the formation. The heaters include at least partially horizontal heating sections at least partially in a hydrocarbon layer of the formation. The heating sections are at least partially arranged in a pattern in the hydrocarbon layer. The heaters are configured to provide heat to the hydrocarbon layer. The provided heat creates a plurality of drainage paths for mobilized fluids. At least two of the drainage paths converge. A production well is located to collect and produce mobilized fluids from at least one of the converged drainage paths in the hydrocarbon layer.

Research Organization:
Shell Oil Company (Houston, TX)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-00OR22725
Assignee:
Shell Oil Company (Houston, TX)
Patent Number(s):
7562706
Application Number:
11/584,429
OSTI ID:
1012650
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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