Patent ID: 6193402
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: B01F,E21B,Y10T

Abstract:
A multiple tub blending apparatus for producing slurry for use in well servicing operations, said blending apparatus comprising:(a) a plurality of blending tubs, each of said tubs having a fracturing fluid inlet means and a particulate matter inlet means, an outlet means, and a mixing means for producing a slurry of fracturing fluid and particulate matter, said fluid and matter inlet means being connected to a source of fracturing fluid and a source of particulate matter, respectively;(b) a single discharge manifolding means for combining the discharges from the multiple blending tubs, balancing simultaneously the outlet pressures of said blending tubs and delivering a slurry of fracturing fluid and particulate matter from said blending tubs at a constant outlet pressure, said discharge manifolding means further including a discharge manifold pipe and individual pipe sections having approximately equal length for connecting the discharge manifold pipe to the outlet means of each of said blending tubs, said equal length pipe sections have approximately equal pressure drop which produces a substantially balanced and constant outlet pressure in said blending tub outlet means; and(c) connector means for connecting said discharge manifold pipe of the discharge manifolding means to a downhole pump apparatus, wherein the constant outlet pressure of the discharge manifolding means supports and stabilizes the inlet pressure of the downhole pump during well servicing operations.