×

Subterranean remediation pump and process for use

  • US 5,509,479 A
  • Filed: 09/08/1994
  • Issued: 04/23/1996
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/08/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
Patent Images

1. In a process for the removal of liquid hydrocarbons floating in a hydrocarbon layer to form an interface with a lower water layer below ground, by pumping from a borehole extending through said hydrocarbon layer, the improvement comprising in combination:

  • a. providing sensing means for determining the interface between the hydrocarbon layer and the water layer in said borehole, said sensing means sending signals indicative of whether it is located above or below the hydrocarbon layer/water interface for transmitting;

    b. providing lifting means for moving said sensing means up or down within said borehole until said sensing means is at said interface;

    c. pumping from a point within said borehole above said interface by pumping means suspended from lifting means whereby said pumping means is maintained in communication with said hydrocarbon layer by said lifting means varying the elevation of said pumping means within said borehole in response to signals received from said sensing means indicative of the elevation of said interface;

    d. providing oleophillic membrane means on the inlet of said pumping means to reduce pumping of water.

View all claims
  • 1 Assignment
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×