EA044752B1 - STEAM GENERATING DEVICE - Google Patents

Description

Field of technology

The invention relates to a steam generating device, in particular to a steam generating device and a method for generating steam, the initial resources for which are water, fuel and oxygen.

State of the art

The world contains many petroleum reservoirs containing viscous hydrocarbons, in many cases referred to as bitumen, tar, heavy oil or extra-heavy oil (collectively referred to herein as heavy oil), with heavy oil having a viscosity ranging from 3,000 to more than 1,000,000 cP. High viscosity makes it difficult to extract oil because it cannot flow freely from the formation.

The most common extraction method to make it economically viable is to heat the heavy oil, for example by injection of steam, to reduce the viscosity. Typically, when developing heavy oil deposits, cyclic steam stimulation (CSS), steam displacement (displacement) and steam gravity drainage (SGD) are used, in which steam is injected from the surface into the reservoir to heat the oil and thereby reduce its viscosity to a level sufficient for effective production

Surface steam injection has a number of limitations due to the low efficiency of surface evaporators, energy loss in surface lines and energy loss in the well. Standard oilfield evaporators convert 85 to 90% of fuel energy into steam, with fuel energy loss in surface piping ranging from 5 to 25% depending on piping length and insulation quality, and finally wellbore heat loss can account for 5-15 % fuel energy depending on the depth of the well and the methods of insulation inside the well. Thus, the total energy losses can exceed 50% of the fuel energy before the steam reaches the formation. In the case of deep deposits of heavy oil, as a result of heat loss during steam injection from the surface, hot water, rather than steam, often reaches the formation.

In addition, many heavy oil reservoirs do not respond to traditional steam injection because their natural displacement pressure is low or non-existent. Even if the reservoir pressure is initially sufficient for production, it obviously begins to fall as production proceeds. Consequently, known methods of steam processing in these cases have low efficiency, since the generated steam has a low pressure, for example, several atmospheres. Therefore, continuous steam injection or steam displacement is generally excluded. Therefore, in many steam injection applications, a cyclic technology known as steam cycling is used. This technology involves injecting steam for a predetermined period of time, followed by stopping steam injection and shutting the well for a predetermined period of time, called the soaking period. The well is then pumped to a predetermined depletion level and the cycle is repeated. However, steam penetrates only a very small portion of the formation surrounding the wellbore, particularly because steam injection occurs at relatively low pressure.

Another disadvantage of known steam generation technologies is the generation of air pollutants, namely CO ₂ , SO ₂ , NO _x and particulate emissions. A number of regions have established maximum emission limits for such steam processing operations, typically covering large areas where large heavy oil deposits exist and where steam processing operations are carried out on an industrial scale. Therefore, the number of steam processing operations at a given site may be strictly limited, and in some cases it may be necessary to separate operations to limit air pollution.

High pressure combustion systems have also been proposed for surface applications. These systems use exhaust gases from a combustion chamber to convert water into steam, and both exhaust gas and steam are forced down the wellbore. This essentially eliminates, or at least reduces, the need for air pollution control measures resulting from the combustion process, since all combustion products are injected into the formation while most of the contaminants thus introduced into the oil formation remain trapped therein. The injection mixture typically has the following composition: approximately 60-70% steam, 25-35% nitrogen, approximately 4-5% carbon dioxide, less than 1% oxygen, depending on whether excess oxygen is used for complete combustion, and trace amounts of SO2 and _NOx . SO2 and NO _x are known to form acidic substances. However, the potential corrosive effects from these substances can be significantly reduced or eliminated by proper preparation of the water used to create the steam and dilution of the acidic compounds by the injection water.

It is known that the use of a combination of steam, nitrogen and carbon dioxide for this operation provides an additional advantage compared to the use of steam alone. In addition to heating the formation and oil through steam condensation, carbon dioxide dilutes the oil, particularly in areas of the formation ahead of the steam where the oil is cold and nitrogen increases or restores formation pressure.

A very serious disadvantage of the currently known above-ground high-pressure system is that it contains complex compressor equipment and a large combustion tank operating under high pressures and high temperatures. This combination requires the presence of qualified mechanics and electricians to operate the equipment safely.

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One solution to overcome the disadvantages associated with generating steam at the surface is to place a steam generator inside the well, close to the formation to be steamed, injecting a mixture of steam and exhaust gases into the formation. This solution provides the above advantages, consisting of increasing the depth at which steam processing can be economically feasible and practical, as well as increasing the flow rate and production volume due to the injection of a mixture of steam and exhaust gases.

Many downhole steam generators have been proposed, but the known designs are very complex, which leads to problems in their manufacture and operation. In addition, prior art designs require frequent maintenance due to scale build-up due to hard water or pilot failures due to extreme conditions inside the well. Durability is of great importance because whenever maintenance needs to be done, the device must be removed from the well, which requires a lot of time and money.

In view of the above, there is a need for a durable steam generating device. Such a device can be used both on the surface and inside the well.

The essence of the invention

According to its first aspect, the invention relates to a device for generating steam and combustion gases for producing oil from an oil well, comprising: a first end configured to receive feedstocks including air, fuel and water; an ignition component located inside the device and configured to ignite fuel and air to form a flame; a combustion chamber enveloping a flame, which is located at a second end opposite the first end, and is limited by a wall and an outlet configured to discharge combustion products; and a water passage that extends from the first end of the main body and terminates in a nozzle on an outer surface of the device, said nozzle directing water flow at least partially in an axial direction along an outer wall portion, wherein along the outer wall portion there is at least partial evaporation of water to form steam.

According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method of generating steam by a steam generating device for extracting oil from an oil reservoir, comprising the following steps: supplying air, water, fuel and electric power or a control signal to the steam generator; water ejection from the nozzle on the outer surface of the steam generator; igniting the flame using an ignition component; evaporating water ejected from the nozzle by passing a stream of water along a portion of the outer surface of the combustion chamber wall to an exit from the combustion chamber, while combustion products caused by the flame flow inside the combustion chamber to an exit from the combustion chamber; and the direction of steam and combustion products into the oil reservoir.

According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for generating steam and combustion gases for producing oil from an oil well, comprising: a first end configured to receive inputs including air, water and fuel, the air entering the device at an opening in the upper portion the first end, wherein said hole does not contain any connections and allows the device to communicate with the outer surface; a section at the first end of the device, configured to connect water and fuel supply lines to the device; an ignition component located in the main body and configured to ignite air and fuel to form a flame; a combustion chamber enveloping a flame, which is located at a second end opposite the first end and is limited by a wall and an outlet configured to discharge combustion products into the well; and a channel extending in the device from said opening to the combustion chamber for passing air flow from the opening into the combustion chamber.

Brief description of drawings

For a better understanding of the invention, it is illustrated by the following figures.

Fig. 1 shows a cross-section of a steam generating device and a flame within it.

Fig. 2A is a cross-sectional view of another steam generating device located in an oil formation and equipped with additional nozzles and an outer casing.

Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view of another steam generating device located in an oil formation and equipped with mixer supports and optional transition cone options.

Fig. 2C shows an isometric view of a steam generating device equipped with mixer supports and a transition cone with an extension.

Fig. 3A shows a perspective view of a steam generating device with nozzles on its outer surface.

Fig. 3B shows a perspective view of a steam generating device, the nozzles of which are in operation.

Fig. 3C shows a perspective view of a steam generating device, the nozzles and extension water tubes of which are in operation.

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Fig. 4A from above shows an installed steam generating device connected to the surface via an integral umbilical.

Fig. 4B from above shows an installed steam generating device connected to the surface via a multi-channel umbilical.

Fig. 4C from above shows an installed steam generating device connected to the surface via a composite umbilical and an annular bypass channel for supplying oxidizer.

Fig. 4D is a cross-sectional view of a steam generating device including an annular air bypass passage.

Carrying out the invention

The following section: Carrying out the invention and the examples given therein reveal various variants of the present invention, which, however, are not the only possible variants envisaged by the author of the invention. This section provides some specific details that allow you to get a comprehensive picture of the invention. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced without these particular details.

The invention generally relates to a steam generating device and method for generating steam inside a well or on the surface, intended for injecting steam and waste gas into an oil reservoir.

Steam injection is often used for heavy oil production, but the present invention is not limited to heavy oil production and can be used for steam generation in general. Applications of the invention include, but are not limited to, generation of steam for heavy oil recovery or other industrial purposes, water treatment, etc. In addition, the use of a steam generating device for heavy oil recovery purposes allows for its use in a variety of configurations, for example, at the surface or in wells with a vertical, horizontal or otherwise oriented wellbore.

In fig. 1, 3A and 3B show a steam generating device 100 configured to receive fuel and water and to burn said fuel and generate steam from said water. The device is designed for downhole or surface use. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the device 100 includes: a connecting component 2 configured to receive input resources in the form of water, fuel and oxidizer; a flow diversion component 4 connected to the connecting component and directing raw resources through the device; and an ignition component 5 configured to ignite the fuel to form a flame F. The device 100 also includes a combustion chamber 74 configured to receive a flame; and a group of water nozzles 6 on the outer surface of the device. Each of the nozzles contains an opening and is configured to discharge water onto the outer surface of the combustion chamber 74. During operation of the device 100, water is converted into steam. The connecting component 2 forms a first end, which can be considered the upper end of the steam generating device, with the combustion chamber located at the second end of the device opposite the first.

Connection component, flow diversion component 4, ignition component 5, etc. can be either separate but interconnected parts of the device, or functional sections of the device connected to it without the possibility of detachment, for example, made integral with it.

During operation, at least one supply line 1 can be activated, configured to connect to a device for supplying initial resources. The lines 1 enter the connecting component 2 of the device. The connecting component 2 is configured to receive any lines 1 and connect to them. The input resources can be received by component 2 through connections that can be suitably sealed and easily replaced, repaired and modified. For example, the connection component 2 may include one or more connectors forming a link between a group of inputs and channels leading to the flow diversion component 4. Lines 1 are configured to supply pressurized feedstocks, such as oxidizer (eg air), fuel and water, or ignition control signals to connecting component 2.

The flow diversion component 4 supplies fuel and air from the component 2 to the ignition component 5 and supplies water from the component 2 to the nozzles 6. The flow diversion component 4 includes a first end 41 receiving feed materials from the connecting component 2. The flow diversion component 4 directs the feed materials to within the device for their use and consumption. The supply of fuel and air to the device may occur through lines 1 with the possibility of diverting them through the device by means of a flow diversion component 4 and releasing them into the combustion chamber 74, where they are burned. Water can enter the device from line 1 with the possibility of its removal by the flow diversion component 4 into the water nozzles 6, from which water is released, and during operation, partial evaporation of water occurs to form steam as it flows along the outer wall of the combustion chamber or enters hot combustion gases escaping from the combustion chamber.

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In particular, the flow diversion component 4 includes a group of channels 4a, 4b, 4c through which raw materials flow in the form of fuel, water and oxidizer. The channels include: an oxidizer channel 4a extending from the first end of the device, for example from the entrance to the device, to the combustion chamber, a water channel 4b extending from the connecting component 2 of the device to the nozzles 6a, and a fuel channel 4c extending from the connecting component 2 devices for combustion chamber 74. The flow diversion component 4 may also accommodate power/control lines or channels extending between the upper end 41 and various areas of the device, such as the ignition component 5.

The ignition component 5 is configured to ignite the fuel and oxidizer flowing into the combustion chamber. For example, in exemplary embodiments of the invention, the ignition component 5 includes a portion open to the combustion chamber 74. Once ignited, the fuel and oxidizer streams continue to flow into combustion chamber 74 and burn therein. The ignition component may be a spark generator, a heated surface, or the like. In another embodiment, the ignition component may comprise a pyrophoric or self-igniting liquid supply system.

The ignition component 5 may be controlled by a control system that determines when the ignition component should be activated. The control system can also carry out other operations, for example, regulate flame stability, degree of fuel combustion, or measure stoichiometry, air and fuel pressure supplied to the device. Therefore, the control system may include sensors located, for example, in the flow diversion component 4, the ignition component 5, or the combustion chamber 74. For example, the device may include an ignition control line coupled to control line 19 in line 1. Ignition control line 19 may require electrical connections in component 2.

The combustion chamber 74 is located at the second end of the device opposite the upper end. The combustion chamber is formed as a space defined by a tubular wall 7 located at the second end. The tubular wall has a length L measured in the axial direction from the closed end (base wall 50) to the open end forming the exit 40 from the chamber. The length L can range from 300 to 1000 mm between closed end and open end depending on the operating parameters of the device and performance requirements.

The combustion chamber wall 7 has an inner surface 71 facing the inside of the combustion chamber and an outer surface 72, which in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 represents part of the outer surface of the device. The wall 7 may be substantially cylindrical, for example, in the shape of a hollow cylinder, in which case the inner surface 71 and the outer surface 72 may be generally cylindrical, with the inner surface defining the inner diameter of the wall 7 and the outer surface 72 defining the outer diameter of the wall 7 and forms its outer cylindrical surface.

The combustion chamber 74 is limited by the base wall 50 and the inner surface 71, and its length L is the distance between the base wall 50 and the outlet 40 and defines the longitudinal axis of the device and the chamber 74. During operation, the flame is in the combustion chamber 74, and combustion products exit combustion chambers in exit zone 40.

The diameter of the combustion chamber outlet 40 may be different. In one embodiment of the invention, the diameter of the outlet 40 is less than the largest diameter of the combustion chamber 74. In other words, the diameter of the opening at the outlet 40 may be less than the largest dimension of the inner diameter of the wall 7. Thus, the wall 7 may include a tapered end defining a constricted outlet 40. This tapered end may be referred to as a combustion nozzle 75. The combustion nozzle 75 influences the exiting combustion gases by constricting their flow as they pass through the constricted diameter. Thus, the combustion nozzle 75 creates a back pressure in the chamber 74, thereby affecting the removal of fluids from the chamber and reducing the return flow of fluids into the combustion chamber.

It should be understood that since the fuel and oxidizer enter the combustion chamber at or near the base wall 50, the flame is localized near the base wall and protected by the wall 7. The flame creates intense heat in the area where it is located, which spreads along the flame as it propagates. and along the path of combustion products moving away from the flame. Therefore, the wall 7 of the combustion chamber becomes extremely hot in the area radially outside where the flame is located, as well as further downstream from it to the outlet 40. Heat transfer occurs from the inner surface 71 to the outer surface 72.

The nozzles 6 are attached to the ends of the water channels 4b. The nozzles are located on the outer surface of the component 4 near the wall 7, are oriented and configured to spray water along the outer surface 72 of the combustion chamber wall towards the outlet 40. When water flows along the combustion chamber wall 7 in the direction of the combustion chamber outlet 40, then under the influence of the heated outer On the surface 72 of the combustion chamber, at least partial evaporation of water occurs to form steam. In particular, the heat from the flame F at the outer surface 72 causes the water ejected from the nozzles to at least partially evaporate to form steam. It is noteworthy that the nozzles are located not with the possibility of throwing water into the combustion chamber, where water can adversely affect the flame, but outside the chamber on the outer surface 72. Thus, the nozzle openings are open to

- 4 044752 facing radially outward surface of the wall 72 of the combustion chamber and in one embodiment configured to eject water at least partially in the axial direction along the outer surface 72 of the wall 7.

In addition to being located on the outer surface of the device, the nozzles 6 may be located approximately where the fuel and oxidizer enter the combustion chamber. For example, the flame is localized in the place where the connection and ignition of air and fuel occurs in the combustion chamber, or slightly downstream of this place. Thus, in addition to the location of the nozzles 6 on the outer surface of the device outside the combustion chamber, the nozzles can be located approximately in the same axial position with the openings of the air channels 4a and 4c leading into the chamber 74. This means that the nozzles are located approximately in the same axial position position with the location where the fuel and air enter the combustion chamber and immediately upstream of the combustion location of the fuel and air. The arrangement of the nozzles 6 in approximately the same axial position with the openings for the air and fuel channels 4a leading into the chamber 74 allows water to be discharged from the channels 4b through the nozzles on a colder section of the outer surface of the device while simultaneously directing the water to pass along or fall much further. the hotter surface of the device, facing radially outward from the location of the flame.

In the illustrated embodiment, the openings for the air and fuel passages 4a and 4c leading into the chamber 74 are located at the base wall 50, therefore, the nozzles 6 are located approximately at the location of the base wall 50 that is the upper closed end of the combustion chamber. The nozzles are located near the outer surface or on the outer surface of the combustion chamber wall, radially outside the base wall 50 of the combustion chamber 74. In one embodiment, the nozzles may be located on the outer surface of the flow diverter component 4 at substantially the same level, for example, substantially in the same plane as the ignition component 5 and the openings for the air and fuel passages 4a in the combustion chamber 74, all of they are located at the wall 50 of the base.

The arrangement of the nozzles in the same axial position with the base wall 50 ensures that water is released from the channels 4b through the nozzles before the water reaches the hottest part of the device, located on the wall 7 between the place where the flame is localized and the outlet end 40. Thus, The water channels 4b, before they reach the nozzles 6, pass only through the connecting component 2 and the flow diversion component 4, but do not pass through the device near or past its hottest section. In one embodiment, the channels 4b terminate in the nozzles 6, but do not extend within the wall 7.

The supply of water from the nozzles 6 to the outer surface 72 creates a cooling effect in the area of the wall 7, where partial evaporation of water occurs to form steam. Thus, the specified position of the nozzles makes it possible to protect the wall 7 of the combustion chamber from thermal destruction and ensures uniform temperature distribution around the wall 7 of the combustion chamber. Additionally, unlike prior art devices that have had problems with scale formation and clogging of the water passages and nozzles, the proposed device places the nozzles upstream of the hottest portion of the device to avoid scale formation in the water passages. and nozzle. The formation of scale is possible on the outer surface of the device, for example, on the outer surface 72 of the wall 7, however, due to the large open surface area, the scale will not prevent the splashing of water, and there is a possibility of it falling off or chipping. Unlike some prior art devices that require softened water, the proposed device with its unique nozzle arrangement can handle untreated water sources such as process water, surface water, brackish water, etc.

In one embodiment, the outer surface 72 of the wall 7 is treated to make it resistant to scale formation due to water evaporation. For example, the outer surface at least between the nozzles 6 and the outlet end 40 may be polished or protected with a non-stick coating, such as Teflon™, titanium and ceramic compounds or similar substances. This surface preparation makes it easier to remove scale during operation and routine maintenance.

The nozzles 6 can be installed at intervals around the circumference of the device with the possibility of supplying water along the entire circumference of the outer surface 72. The number of nozzles 6 depends on the flow rate, the expected pressure loss and the length of the combustion chamber.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, nozzles 6 may be provided in a shoulder 65 on the outer surface of the device. The shoulder may be formed by changing the outer diameter of the device from a larger outer diameter at the upper end to a smaller outer diameter at the lower end. The shoulder may be located between the flow diversion component 4 and the wall 7 of the combustion chamber. The shoulder forms an annular edge substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device. The shoulder 65 faces downward so that the outer diameter of the outer surface substantially in and above the base wall 50 is greater than the outer diameter measured across the width of the outer surface 72 of the combustion chamber wall. In one embodiment

- 5 044752 nozzles 6 are installed on the annular face of the shoulder so that their holes extend into the area near the annular face and are directed towards the outlet 40 of the combustion chamber. Therefore, water is released axially in the opposite direction from the shoulder along the outer surface of the device parallel to the wall 7 of the combustion chamber. The nozzles 6 can be located at equal distances from each other around the circumference of the shoulder to ensure sufficient water coverage of the combustion chamber wall 7. In fig. 3B, the nozzles 6 are shown in operation, with water being ejected concentrically from the area around the device in the direction of the outlet 40. As a result, a film of water is formed on the outer surface 72 of the wall 7 of the combustion chamber.

The nozzles 6 can be selected for different types of spray delivery, including fan, jet/stream, fine mist or spray. Additionally, water pressure and water flow rates may vary depending on the size of the unit, its design criteria, and the power consumption of the unit.

If there is a need to increase the vapor content, or if it is determined that the combustion products flowing from the outlet are too hot, then it may be advisable to install additional extension water tubes 12 with nozzles 12a at their distal ends, as shown in FIG. 2A and 3C. Extension tubes 12 may communicate with some of the channels 4b, such as those terminating in shoulder 65. In FIG. 3C shows that all cylindrical extension water tubes 12 may be connected to component 4, for example at shoulder 65, spaced apart from each other and dispersed between nozzles 6, and may extend along the length L of combustion chamber wall 7, terminating near combustion chamber outlet 40 . The extension water tubes 12 can serve as an additional source of water in addition to the nozzles 6. The water entering the device can be supplied to the water nozzles 6 at the base wall 50, and into the water nozzles 12a mounted on the extension tubes 12, and also ejected from them. In fig. 3C shows how the simultaneous discharge of water from the nozzles 12a on the extension water tubes and the nozzles 6 can occur.

The nozzles 12a are located near the outlet 40 where hot combustion gases exit the device into the space 21. Thus, the nozzles 12a of the extension tubes 12 can be positioned to discharge water near or directly into the combustion gases. The water supplied to the device is directed into the extension water tubes 12 and is discharged through the nozzles 12a into the space 21, where the hot combustion gases flow out from the combustion chamber outlet 40, resulting in the evaporation of water to form steam. As shown in FIG. 3C, a plurality of extension water tubes 12 and nozzles 12a may be provided in the invention.

Extension water tubes 12 are configured to supply water directly to outlet 40, from where combustion gases flow out into space 21. Injecting water directly into the flowing combustion gases allows the combustion gases to be cooled directly. In particular, the extension water tubes 12 allow the hot combustion gases 21 passing through the combustion chamber outlet 40 to be directly cooled. Extension water tubes 12 may project water in an axial direction relative to the wall or may be angled inward toward combustion chamber outlet 40. Thus, the water ejected from the nozzles 12a may be directed in an axial direction or angled radially inward toward or under the outlet direction. For example, the distal end of the extension water tubes 12 may be positioned toward the outlet 40 at an angle α of at least 45°, allowing water to be discharged into the space 21 below the outlet where hot combustion gases flow out of the combustion chamber. The number of extension water tubes 12 may vary depending on the desired steam content, well size, application and device design. For example, if the device is intended for use in a well with an internal diameter of less than 229 mm or less than 178 mm, 4 to 8 extension water tubes 12 can be installed.

Extension water tubes 12 with nozzles 12a can provide greatest effect at a low power setting, such as 5 million BTU/hr (1465 kW). In this case, the water ejected from the nozzles 12a helps to cool the hot combustion gases flowing out from the combustion chamber outlet 40.

The connection of the extension water tubes 12 to the device can be mechanical or welded. In fig. 2A shows that the extension water tubes may barely touch or be spaced from the outer surface 72 of the combustion chamber. In one embodiment, a space 66 is provided between each tube 12 and the surface 72. Thus, the extension water tubes 12 can be insulated from the heat of the wall 7 by a film of water that comes from the nozzles 6 and can flow into the space 66 between the extension water tubes 12 and the outer surface 72 of the combustion chamber.

As stated above, the device is designed for downhole or surface use. In downhole applications, the device is installed such that the combustion chamber 74 and nozzles 6 are open into the well space, for example, into the formation 11 to be steam treated. In FIG. 2A and 2B show devices 100, each of which is installed within a wellbore. An isolation packer 3 secures the device within the wellbore wall, in this case depicted as a casing 9. An isolation packer 3 isolates the lower end of the device, where steam generation occurs, from the wellbore area above the packer. So

- 6 044752 packer 3 retains steam and heat from the combustion chamber 74 inside the well and prevents steam from flowing up along the annulus away from the oil formation 11. The device can be installed near the perforations 10 and the oil formation 11 to reduce the risk of damage and energy loss in the casing pipe 9 of the well and other formations above this oil formation. The isolation packer 3 contains at least one mechanical, hydraulic, inflatable, swelling or anti-slip packer element.

The isolation packer 3 is installed concentrically relative to the outer surface of the device, above the device on a connected but separate device, or on lines 1. The packer 3 is initially in a retracted position when not in use or during lowering into the well, while after its delivery into the required part of the well, it is installed by expanding the packer elements.

In one embodiment of the invention, an isolation packer is installed around the circumference of the device between the connecting component 2 and the nozzles 6. That is, while in the well, the connecting component is located above the packer along the wellbore, and the nozzles 6 and outlet 40 are located below the packer 3 along the wellbore. The packer 3 prevents any other communication between the connecting component 2 and the nozzles except through the channels 4a, 4b, 4c.

After placing the device in the well, an annular cooling system 23 can be placed above the device along the wellbore above the packer 3.

Fig. 2A-2C illustrate other possible features of the steam generating device. The illustrated device has a constriction structure to forcefully mix non-steamed water, steam, and combustion gases in a region downstream of combustion chamber outlet 40. The tapering design allows you to regulate the release of heat and steam from the device. The constriction structure forcibly creates a radial flow directed towards the center, thereby mixing non-steamed water and steam into the exhaust gases flowing from the outlet 40, while simultaneously allowing the water to evaporate and cool the exhaust gases. The constriction structure may include a transition cone 14 at the second, lower end of the device below the outlet 40 with a space 21 between them.

The transition cone includes conical funnel-shaped side walls converging from the inlet open top end 14a to the outlet open bottom end 14b. The diameter of the hole at the lower end of the cone is smaller than that at its upper end. The wider upper end is located closer to the outlet 40 on the device than the lower end 14b.

In one embodiment of the invention, the diameter of the open upper end 14a of the transition cone 14 is greater than the diameter of the outlet 40, which promotes the merging of non-steamed water and steam passing along the outer surface 72 with combustion gases flowing from the outlet 40. In particular, the upper end 14a forces fluids mix in space 21 and pass through the lower outlet 14b of smaller diameter. In one embodiment, the diameter of the upper end of the transition cone 14 is approximately equal to the diameter of the casing of the wellbore in which the device in question is intended to be used, i.e. approximately equal to the diameter of packer 3 in the installed state. Therefore, all fluids in zone 21 below outlet 40 must pass through the transition cone as they move away from the device. The lower outlet 14b of smaller diameter can be extended by an extension in the form of a solid cylindrical wall of the appropriate diameter to regulate the dynamics of the flow of escaping steam and exhaust combustion gases. For example, the extension can reduce the formation of vortex flows when the fluid exits the cone 14.

The transition cone 14 can be connected to the device in various ways, for example, located substantially concentrically with respect to the outlet 40 to form a space underneath. If there are concerns regarding control of the device or damage to the casing, the restriction structure may include a substantially solid cylindrical housing 8 for attaching the cone 14 in the correct position on the device. Such a device is shown in Fig. 2A. In such a device, the outer casing 8 encloses the lower end of the device, including the wall 7, with nozzles 6 between them. At its lower end, the casing 8 holds a transition cone 14 spaced downward from the combustion chamber outlet 40. The outer casing may be a cylindrical solid wall. Since the nozzles 6 extend into the annular space between the outer casing 8 and the wall 7, the outer casing 8 and the transition cone 14 retain water from the nozzles 6, as well as the resulting steam and exhaust gases, initially within the device. For example, water ejected from the nozzles 6 forms a flow between the wall 7 of the combustion chamber and the interior of the outer casing 8. A device with an outer casing 8 can be operated at higher steam contents (>80%) without damaging the well casing 9. Thus, the casing 8 becomes sacrificial and protects the casing 9 from the high temperature generated at the wall 7. The casing 8 can be removably attached to the device, for example, to the component 4, so that it can be replaced during maintenance.

If necessary, the inner surface of the outer casing can be subjected to non-stick treatment, for example, by applying a coating discussed above.

In another embodiment of the invention, illustrated in FIG. 2B and 2C, the device includes brackets 13 securing the adapter cone 14 to a second end spaced downward from the outlet 40.

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The brackets 13 extend beyond the lower end of the wall 7. There are many options for the brackets 13. The supports 13 can be configured to more fully enclose the outer exit 40 and area 21, with one embodiment of the supports 13 being a group of spaced apart thin elongated axially extending rods with open areas between them, as shown in Fig. 2C. The presence of a group of spaced rods instead of a solid cylindrical wall reduces the weight, complexity and material consumption of the device and leaves the annular space around the wall 7 under the nozzle 6 as open as possible.

In one embodiment, the brackets 13 are connected by a ring 13a mounted in a concentric position on the device above the nozzles 6, for example, on the outer surface of the component 4 under the packer 3. In this case, the supports 13 extend down along the main body and the wall of the combustion chamber and extend axially beyond exit 40. Thus, the length of the brackets 13 exceeds the length L of the wall 7, due to which they extend from the area above the nozzles 6 and end below the exit 40.

In addition, the brackets 13 and/or the ring 13a may be configured to function as a means of centering the device relative to the casing in which the device is installed. For example, the supports and/or ring 13a may extend diametrically beyond the diameter of the main body of the device and components 2 and 4 to form a nominal outer diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the casing of the wellbore in which the device is intended for use. An embodiment using brackets as centering means may comprise at least three spaced support rods extending axially from an area on or above shoulder 65 and spaced circumferentially to form a nominal outer diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the casing of the wellbore in which the place the device, and the specified diameter is essentially equal to the diameter of the upper end of the cone 14 and the packer 3 in the installed position, i.e. greater than the outer diameters of each of the components 2, 4 of the device and the wall 7.

The upper end 14a of the transition cone experiences support near or on the well casing 9 because, as stated above, the diameter of the upper end is substantially equal to the diameter of the casing in which the device is installed. In one embodiment, a seal 15 is provided at the upper end of the transition cone 14. The seal may be a ring extending around the entire circumference of the upper end 14a, the diameter of which is selected to provide compression against the well casing 9. The seal 15 can be made from a variety of high temperature resistant flexible materials, such as high temperature rubber compounds, Teflon or similar materials.

In this embodiment, the well casing 9 serves to retain water, steam and combustion products within the well section below the nozzles. For example, water from the nozzles 6 and the resulting steam flow along the space between the well casing 9, brackets 13 and wall 7 until the seal 15 and cone 14, where their flow narrows towards the center and merges with the flow of exhaust gases from the outlet 40.

Fig. 4A-4C show from above a group of devices installed in the well casing 9. These figures illustrate optional configurations of supply lines 1, for example, lines 17 of air, 18 of fuel, 19 of ignition control/power supply and 20 of water. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, all lines are grouped into bundles, with larger diameter pipe wiring accommodating smaller diameter pipes. Fuel lines 18, water 19 and control 20 are the smaller diameter lines, and air line 17 occupies essentially the remaining space within the larger diameter pipe. The connection component 2 of the device includes a connection portion for a larger diameter pipe through which air flows, and connection portions for each of the water lines 20, fuel 18, and ignition control lines 19.

In another embodiment, multiple lines may be grouped into bundles, for example in the form of a multi-channel umbilical 1a, as shown in FIG. 4B. The multi-channel umbilical 1a can be connected to the device in the connecting part 2. The multi-channel umbilical can be formed based on pipe wiring, concentric long flexible pipes, flexible braided hose, casings. One example of a multi-channel umbilical is known as the Armorpak™ tubing system and is disclosed in US Patent No. 10273790.

The outer diameter of the lines 1, 1a may depend on the required pressure in a particular application of the device. For example, for heavy oil production, the outer diameter of the pipework can range from 60 to 114 mm and from 15 to 60 mm for the Armorpak pipe system. Supply lines, such as air line 17 or fuel line 18, may provide greater volumes of inputs to the device than water passage 20 and may therefore be configured to rigidly connect device 100 to the surface in downhole applications.

In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 4C and 4D, the device is configured to receive air from the environment through an opening 90 in the outer surface of the device rather than by supplying it through a line. In such an embodiment, device 100 has an oxidizer inlet 90 at the upper end, for example, in device components 2 or 4. Line 18

- 8 044752 fuel, water channel 20 and control line 19 are connected to the device at individual or group connection points, with air entering through the well annulus and entering the device through hole 90. The hole 90 may not contain any type of connections for supply lines, such as quick-release connections, threaded connections, Armorpak connections, long flexible pipe connections or group connections. Hole 90 communicates with a channel leading into the combustion chamber. The channel may be configured to allow air flow from the opening 90 into the combustion chamber. A particulate or water trap, such as a strainer 92, may be provided at the opening 90 to prevent the opening 90 and associated passage from becoming clogged with particulates or foreign matter. In this embodiment, there is no air supply line to the device, and air may be drawn into the device from an area of the wellbore located upstream from the device. An oxidizing agent, for example air, can be pumped into an area of the wellbore located upstream of the device. Hole 90 defines an annular bypass channel through the device. The use of a ring bypass channel is possible, for example, in cases where large volumes of air are required. In these cases, the use of an annular bypass channel allows reducing the surface pressure and discharge pressure to regulate the total pressure acting on the system.

Air from a region within the well casing 9 can flow into the hole 90 and then be diverted, by means of the flow diverter component 4, into the chamber 74. Due to the presence of an annular bypass channel through the hole 90, operating pressures at the surface of the well during well intervention can be lower, than in the case of supplying the oxidizer through the line, since the cross-sectional area of the flow in the annular space is several times larger than the cross-sectional area of the flow in supply line 1. Thus, the hole 90 may provide an advantage in the case of a narrow well casing 9 in being able to create optimal operating pressures at the surface of the device. In addition, it is possible to use more economical compressors to supply initial resources inside the well in the case of supplying air through hole 90. Supplying air through the annular space through hole 90 allows additional fuel 17 and water 20 to be supplied through supply line 1.

According to another aspect of the invention, shown in FIG. 4C, the device contains a temperature sensor 24, which can be monitored via lines 1 or remotely. It is also possible to use other sensors, for example, a pressure sensor or a chemical sensor. Sensors can measure parameters that characterize the progress of operations or indicate abnormalities, such as overheating or leaks. Sensors can be located above (as shown) and below packer 3.

The outer diameter of the steam generating device 100 may depend on the inner diameter of the well casing 9. The outer diameter of the steam generating device must be less than the inner diameter of the casing pipe 9 of the well. Typically, the borehole internal diameter may be less than 200 mm or less than 125 mm, in which cases the maximum outer diameter of the device may be approximately 190-120 mm to accommodate its placement in the well casing 9.

In cases of downhole application of a steam generating device, the outer diameter of the device may be limited by the size of the well casing 9, however, in cases of surface application there is no size limitation.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for generating steam, for example, for injecting it into a formation 11 for the purpose of extracting oil from an oil formation. The method includes the following steps: supplying air, water and fuel to the steam generating device; ignition of the fuel to form a flame in the combustion chamber 74; the release of water from the nozzles 6 along the outer surface of the wall 7 of the combustion chamber, as a result of which partial evaporation of water occurs with the formation of steam and a flow occurs along the outer surface 72 of the wall 7 of the combustion chamber, while combustion gases under the influence of the flame in the combustion chamber flow through the internal passage, limited by the inner wall surface 71; and mixing steam and combustion gases at the combustion chamber outlet 40. A mixture of steam and combustion gases can be transferred into the formation.

The supply of air, water and fuel to the device can be provided in different ways. For example, input resources may enter the device via a multi-channel umbilical. Alternatively, the space between the device and the well casing 9, particularly the annulus, may provide a path for feedstocks such as air if the device has an opening 90. The ignition component 5 can cause the supplied fuel and air to burn to form a flame. in the internal space of the combustion chamber. It is possible to discharge water flowing into the device through a multi-channel umbilical through water nozzles 6 located outside the combustion chamber where the flame is localized. The nozzles 6 may be oriented to eject water at least partially axially toward the combustion chamber outlet 40. Water flowing longitudinally along the length L of the heated wall 7 of the combustion chamber cools the wall and turns into steam. Only when the steam and all the water that has not turned into steam reaches the lower end of the wall do they come into contact with the exhaust gases flowing from outlet 40.

Steam, combustion gases and all water that has not turned into steam can be directed to mixing, for example, due to their passage through the transition cone 14, with subsequent entry into the oil reservoir 11. The transition cone gives the flow a cone shape and forces the mixing of steam and/or water after passing along the wall 7 of the combustion chamber and combustion gases flowing from the outlet 40 of the combustion chamber. This increases the vapor content and reduces the outlet temperature of the exhaust gases.

Since the evaporation of water in the device occurs on its outer surface, the water supplied to the device 100 may not be pure and may be, for example, fresh water, brackish water or sea water. The steam generated by the device 100 may include superheated steam.

A wide variety of fuels can be used, such as natural gas, synthetic gas, propane, hydrogen or liquid fuels.

For typical oil reservoir applications, air or gas pressures can be adjusted from approximately 20 atmospheres (2000 kPa) to approximately 70 atmospheres (7000 kPa), and the power output of the device can be adjusted to greater than 10 MM BTU/h ( 2930 kW).

The device is made from materials selected to withstand harsh downhole conditions such as high temperatures, steam and corrosive fluids.

The components of the steam generating device 100 are simple and easily adaptable, making it easy to use, control, repair and modify. The device and method of using the steam generating device can reduce or slow down environmental pollution. Due to the design and configuration of the components, the device is able to withstand high temperatures and pressures during repeated use. In addition, the device is capable of increasing and/or restoring elevated pressure in an oil reservoir due to the fact that combustion gases and steam can be injected into the well at different pressures. Due to its high output power, the device can be widely used in many fields.

Items.

A. A device for generating steam and combustion gases for extracting oil from an oil well, comprising: a main body with a first end configured to receive input resources including air, fuel and water; an ignition component located inside the device and configured to ignite fuel and air to form a flame; a combustion chamber enveloping a flame, which is located at a second end of the main body opposite to the first end, and is limited by a wall and an outlet configured to discharge combustion products; and a water passage that extends through the main body from the first end and terminates in a nozzle on an outer surface of the device, said nozzle configured to direct water flow at least partially in an axial direction along an outer wall portion outside the combustion chamber, wherein along At least partial evaporation of water occurs in this outer wall section to form steam.

b. A device as described in the previous paragraph, in which the nozzle is located approximately at the place where air and fuel enter the combustion chamber.

c. The device according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which the nozzle is located outside in the diametrical direction from the ignition device located in the combustion chamber.

d. The device according to any of the previous claims, wherein said first end has a connecting portion configured to receive a supply line.

e. The device according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which the first end has an opening configured to receive air from the outer surface of the device, regardless of the supply line.

f. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the input resources further include electrical power or an ignition control signal.

g. A device according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which the initial resources are grouped into a bundle.

h. The device according to any of the previous paragraphs, further comprising a transition cone spaced downward from the combustion chamber outlet, wherein the transition cone has an open upper end and an open lower end that is narrower than the upper end, wherein the transition cone is configured to collect and combine steam and waste gases under the specified outlet.

i. The device according to any of the previous paragraphs, further comprising an elastic seal surrounding the open upper end of the transition cone.

j. The device according to any of the previous claims, further comprising an outer casing connecting the transition cone to the device, wherein the outer casing includes a solid wall surrounding the wall of the combustion chamber, and the nozzle is located in the annular space between the solid wall and the specified wall.

k. The device according to any of the previous paragraphs, further comprising brackets connecting the transition cone to the device, each of the brackets being a rod-shaped structure extending beyond the exit of the combustion chamber.

l. The device according to any of the previous paragraphs, additionally containing an insulating packer,

- 10 044752 surrounding the device between said first end and the nozzle.

m. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the nozzle is one of a group of nozzles located around the outer perimeter of the device.

n. The device according to any of the previous claims, further comprising an extension water tube having a cylindrical structure, which extends along the specified outer portion of the wall and ends in an opening near the combustion chamber exit, and the specified opening is configured to eject water along the width of the combustion chamber exit.

O. A device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distal end of the extension water tube ends at an inward angle to said outer wall portion and is directed toward the outlet of the combustion chamber.

R. A method for generating steam by means of a steam generating device for extracting oil from an oil reservoir, which includes the following steps: combustion of air and fuel in the combustion chamber of the steam generating device; ejection of water from a nozzle on the outer surface of the steam generating device with the possibility of evaporating water and generating steam outside the combustion chamber; and allowing steam and exhaust gases from the combustion chamber to mix only after the exhaust gases have exited the combustion chamber but before the steam and exhaust gases come into contact with the oil formation.

q. The method of the previous claim, wherein the water ejection step includes directing the water onto an outer surface of the combustion chamber wall.

r. A method as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the combustion chamber is defined by a tubular side wall and further comprises fuel and air inlets into the combustion chamber, the combustion step comprising containing a combustion flame within the side wall downstream of the fuel and air inlets, wherein the water ejection step includes supplying water through the device and releasing water from the device onto an outer surface of the side wall.

s. The method according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which the specified release occurs between the upper end of the steam generating device and a place located outside in the diametrical direction from the combustion flame localization zone.

t. The method as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water ejection step further includes spraying water across the width of the combustion chamber outlet into the exhaust gases exiting the combustion chamber.

u. The method according to any of the previous paragraphs, further comprising the step of forcing the passage of steam and exhaust gases through a constriction cone located downstream of the combustion chamber.

v. The method according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which the air for the steam generating device is supplied from a well area located above the device, regardless of the supply line.

w. The method according to any of the previous paragraphs, in which air enters the steam generating device through an opening on the outer surface of the device, regardless of the supply line.

X. A device for generating steam and combustion gases for extracting oil from an oil well, comprising:

a main body with a first end comprising a connecting portion for connecting fuel and/or water supply lines and an air inlet port configured to receive air from the atmosphere surrounding the device;

an ignition component located in the main body and configured to ignite air and fuel to form a flame;

a combustion chamber enclosing a flame, which is located at a second end of the main body opposite to said first end, and is defined by a wall and an outlet configured to discharge combustion products from the combustion chamber;

and a channel extending in the device from the air inlet opening to the combustion chamber, configured to conduct a flow of air from said opening into the combustion chamber, and optionally comprising at least one of the following: an insulating packer surrounding the device, said air inlet opening located between an upper end of the first end and an isolation packer, the air inlet opening comprising a filter component to prevent water or solids from entering said passage.

y. A method for generating steam by means of a steam-generating device, which includes the following steps: receiving air into the steam-generating device from the atmosphere within a well area that is open to the outer surface of the steam-generating device; combustion of air and fuel in the combustion chamber of a steam generating device to produce heat; and releasing water to evaporate it to form steam under the influence of said heat generated by the steam generating device, wherein, if necessary, the step of receiving air includes filtering water and particulate matter from the air on the outer surface of the device.

The description and drawings are intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention by one skilled in the art. However, it should be understood that the description and drawings do not limit the scope of legal protection of the invention and should be interpreted in a broad sense.

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Claims (18)

CLAIM 1. A device for generating a vapor-gas mixture for extracting oil from an oil well, comprising a main body with a first end configured to receive initial resources, including air, fuel and water; an ignition component located inside the device and configured to ignite fuel and air to form a flame; a combustion chamber enveloping a flame, which is located at a second end of the main body opposite to the first end, and is limited by a wall and an outlet configured to discharge combustion products; and a water passage that extends through the main body from the first end and terminates in a nozzle on an outer surface of the device, said nozzle configured to direct a flow of water at least partially in an axial direction along an outer wall portion outside the combustion chamber, and along this outer portion of the wall at least partial evaporation of water occurs to form steam. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is located approximately at the location where air and fuel enter the combustion chamber. 3. The device according to claim 1, in which the nozzle is located outside in the diametrical direction from the ignition device located in the combustion chamber. 4. The device according to claim 2, wherein said first end has a connecting portion configured to receive a supply line. 5. The device according to claim 1, in which the first end has an opening configured to receive air from the outer surface of the device, regardless of the supply line. 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the input resources further include electrical power or an ignition control signal. 7. The device according to claim 1, in which the source resources are grouped into a bundle. 8. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a transition cone spaced downward from the combustion chamber outlet, wherein the transition cone has an open upper end and an open lower end that is narrower than the upper end, wherein the transition cone is configured to collect and combine steam and exhaust gases under the specified outlet. 9. The device according to claim 8, further comprising an elastic seal covering the open upper end of the transition cone. 10. The device of claim 8, further comprising an outer casing connecting the transition cone to the device, wherein the outer casing comprises a solid wall surrounding the wall of the combustion chamber, wherein the nozzle is located in the annular space between the solid wall and said wall. 11. The device according to claim 8, further comprising brackets connecting the transition cone to the device, each of the brackets being a rod-shaped structure extending beyond the exit of the combustion chamber. 12. The device of claim 1, further comprising an isolation packer surrounding the device between said first end and the nozzle. 13. The device of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is one of a group of nozzles arranged around the outer perimeter of the device. 14. The device of claim 1, further comprising an extension water tube having a cylindrical structure that extends along said outer portion of the wall and ends in an opening near the combustion chamber exit, wherein said opening is configured to discharge water across the width of the combustion chamber exit. 15. The device according to claim 14, in which the distal end of the extension water tube ends at an angle inward to the specified outer portion of the wall and is directed towards the exit of the combustion chamber. 16. A method for generating a steam-gas mixture for oil production from an oil reservoir, including the use of a device according to claim 1, containing the following steps: combustion of air and fuel in the combustion chamber of the steam-generating device; ejection of water from a nozzle on the outer surface of the steam generating device with the possibility of evaporating water and generating steam outside the combustion chamber; and allowing steam and exhaust gases from the combustion chamber to mix only after the exhaust gases have exited the combustion chamber but before the steam and exhaust gases come into contact with the oil formation. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the water ejection step includes directing the water onto an outer surface of the combustion chamber wall. 18. The method according to claim 16, in which the combustion chamber is limited by a tubular side wall and additionally contains inputs for fuel and air into the combustion chamber, wherein the combustion stage includes a lo- -