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U.S. Department of Energy
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Production of heavy crude oil by heating

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6177025
A process for producing heavy crude oil from a stratum through a well penetrating the stratum and an aquifer below the stratum consists of burning fuel with injected oxygen-containing, combustion-supporting gas in an upper level of the aquifer subjacent to a heavy crude-bearing stratum. The oil in the overlying stratum is thereby heated, reducing its viscosity, and causing it to flow into a well from which it is recovered. Air is the usual combustion-supporting gas, but air enriched with oxygen or oxygen alone may be used. (10 claims)
Assignee:
Phillips Petroleum Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 3349846
OSTI ID:
6177025
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English